By Mae Sie Win
Karenni people are from one of the minority ethnic groups of Burma/Myanmar. The Karenni State, also known as Kayah State, is in eastern Burma/Myanmar bordering north west Thailand. Karenni State is the smallest and least populous state with approximately 400,000 people.
Since 1948, and like other ethnicminority groups, the Karenni people have been subjected to oppression and persecution by Myanmar military regimes. In 1996, due to the civil war, the military regime introduced a ‘four cuts’ policy against Karenni civilians in conflict areas. Under this policy, civilians in conflict areas were forced to relocate to set up camps near their respective towns, losing their land, home and belongings. After the deadline, the military attacked the area, burning down homes, killing animals and destroying crops. This resulted in many people fleeing to Thailand-Burma border camps for safety and, at present, there are over 85,000 refugees in these camps.
In 2008, a few Karenni families arrived in Wyndham through the UNHCR Refugee Resettlement Program. Since then, a steady stream has continued to arrive with around 1,500 Karenni people now calling Wyndham home.
Like other migrants and refugees, the Karenni people face many challenges in their new home including language barriers, and understanding different political, legal and social systems. To help in the settlement process, community members have access to settlement services, such as Wyndham Community and Education, and other supportive programs.
Unfortunately, with studies, work, family and community commitments, the men do not have a lot of extra time to engage with settlement agencies offering services and programs during work hours. In March 2026, during the Karenni Community Consultation, the community requested a Men’s Group to be set up-to create a platform where these men can gather and find ways to help facilitate a successful settlement journey.
The group meets once a month on Saturday from 4pm–6pm at Wyndham Community and Education Centre’s Werribee office. The meetings provide conversational English sessions, information specific to their needs, and a space where they share their goals, challenges and experiences to develop strategies on how to support each other achieve their goals and smooth their settlement journey.
If the quotes from members are anything to go by the program is very much appreciated.
“I have faced many challenges when I arrive here – such as language barriers, lack of employment opportunities, understanding of rules and laws, the government systems and social dynamics, to mention a few…. Wyndham Karenni Men’s Group is a safe space for me to share my challenges with other participants, learn from each and find ways to support one another, so we all have a successful settlement journey together”.
Mr Bu Reh
“For me the Wyndham Karenni Men’s Group is not only useful for me personally, but also for my Karenni community. It is useful for me because I can comfortably share my concerns and challenges with others who used their lived experience and help me through the challenges. I’m grateful for Wyndham Community and Education Centre for facilitating the gathering every month”.
Mr Preh Reh
