Who we are.
A startup charity supporting Myanmar communities displaced by civil war — through English education, scholarships, and humanitarian aid.
How we began.
25 Bridges is a startup charity organisation, initially known as CHAI - Chin Humanitarian Aid International, founded in 2021.
Since the military coup of February 2021, thousands of Myanmar refugees have fled their home towns (and continue to do so) as a result of civil war.
We have raised funds to support predominantly Chin communities who have fled and become refugees in Mizoram, North East India. There are more than 100 refugee camps throughout Mizoram.
2026 project: Sponsorship for educationFrom rice bags to tarpaulin roofing, water tanks and sewing machines, we have raised funds and provided assistance.
Since 2022, numerous refugee students attending our online English classes have reached a proficiency level sufficient to attend formal schooling. Funds raised in 2026 will go towards supporting their schooling in Indian cities.
What we set out to do.
- Sponsorship and scholarship project: Fundraising for education and training through recognised institutions.
- Providing a safe and secure place where intergenerational skills training can take place — sewing, weaving, knitting, embroidery — preserving culture and providing dignity of work.
- Where urgent needs are identified, fundraising for emergency humanitarian aid supplies.
The work, in full.
- Sponsorship for education.
- Weekly Online English class (providing electronic devices to allow this).
- Rice bags, tarpaulins and medical tools for refugee camps in Mizoram.
- Sewing machines for refugee camps in Mizoram.
- A safe and secure concrete community hub building for sewing and weaving.
Board & team.
- Christalin Thangpawl President · United States
- Marion Porteous Secretary · New Zealand
- Sandy Boyd Treasurer · Australia
- Boikung Thaizawl Camp, Mizoram
- John Thang Hnahtial Camp, Mizoram
- Ni Ni Delhi, India