Sophia Hla
- Award:Voice of CourageAwarding Organization:Women's Commision for Refugee Women and ChildrenDate Awarded:May 21, 2005

I have been committed to family planning as an integral part of reproductive health for 20 years at Mae Tao Clinic. Refugee and IDP families need access to family planning services. MTC fills this gap in collaboration with grass-roots community organizations and has had extensive international support over the years. I have been project leader for several of these projects, including AMDD, RAISE, SPRINT.
I serve as Deputy Director and the lead person for Reproductive Health Services. It is my responsibility to assure high quality services are delivered at MTC and coordinate with partner organizations. Most recently we have begun meetings with the Myanmar Ministry of Health, Maternal Health division to discuss certification of our health workers and including MTC in the supply chain.
I grew up in the refugee camp. I witnessed tragic circumstances of women who suffered grave consequences due to lack of health care. Unwanted pregnancies and septic abortions are major reasons for high maternal mortality. When I saw this situation I decided to change the situation. I came to Mae Tao clinic as a health worker and over time I took on more responsibility to develop the programs that are most useful. I believe family planning is the most effective way to improve the lives of women.
For 20 years it was not possible to work with the Myanmar government. MTC served refugees and displaced persons from across the border. Now with the “Nation-wide Ceased Fire Agreement”, I am working with the Myanmar Ministry of Health to collaborate on a convergence approach to maternal and child health and family planning. As the lead person for Reproductive Health I also continue to coordinate with local Thai authorities and all the INGOs and community organizations.
MTC provides long-acting reversible contraception. However, we have a shortage of skilled health workers to introduce the hormonal implant in rural health posts across the border. The Ministry of Health is willing to offer Train the Trainer (TOT) support for implant technique as well as materials. After TOT, we will arrange multiplier training in our appropriate districts.