For Pue Meh, pursuing a nursing degree is about more than building a career. It is a way to honor her parents’ sacrifices, create a more secure future for her children, and care for women and families whose experiences reflect her own.

The Atlanta Women’s Foundation (AWF) is proud to recognize Pue as the 2026 recipient of the Yashoda Reddy Education Award. Presented at AWF’s Community Investment Celebration in September, the $5,000 award will support her education at Clayton State University as she works toward a career in women’s healthcare.

A Journey Shaped by Family and Determination

Pue grew up in a refugee camp in Thailand after her parents fled conflict in Burma, now Myanmar. Her family came to the United States in 2009, bringing hopes for opportunities her parents had never had, including access to education.

As the oldest child, Pue helped her family navigate an unfamiliar language and everyday tasks, from reading mail to completing paperwork, while she was still learning English herself.

She became a mother during high school and, with family support, graduated in 2019. She began college that same year but later paused her studies to work full-time and help support her family. Even as her responsibilities grew, her educational goals remained.

In 2023, Pue returned to school to study pre-nursing. She earned her nursing assistant certification and began working at Northside Hospital, where caring for patients strengthened her desire to become a nurse. She later transferred to Clayton State University to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“Earning my degree represents more than personal success,” Pue shared in her award application. “It is a way to honor my parents’ sacrifices, break generational barriers, and inspire my children and others in my community to believe that their circumstances do not define their future.”

Support That Makes Education Possible

As a working mother of two, Pue balances coursework, caregiving, and household expenses. Clayton State’s Child Care Subsidy Program has helped reduce the cost of childcare, allowing her to focus on her studies.

The Yashoda Reddy Education Award will provide additional support for tuition, books, and everyday expenses as she continues her nursing education.

Deborah Deckner-Davis, a Clayton State professor and director of the university’s Child Care Subsidy Program, nominated Pue in recognition of her academic achievements, perseverance, and commitment to serving others.

Her story illustrates why removing barriers to education matters. When women have support to continue their studies, the possibilities extend to their children, their families, and the communities they hope to serve.

Turning Experience into Compassionate Care

Pue hopes to specialize in labor and delivery or mother-baby care, supporting mothers and newborns during some of life’s most significant moments. Her long-term goal is to become a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and advocate for underserved communities.

She also dreams of returning to the refugee camp where she grew up to provide health education and essential resources for women and families, while encouraging girls to pursue their own education.

Continuing Yashoda Reddy’s Legacy

Created by Dr. Sujatha Reddy, an AWF board alumna, and her brother Rohith Reddy, the award honors their mother’s belief in education and her determination to challenge limitations.

That legacy continues through women like Pue, whose commitment to learning is matched by a desire to give back.

At AWF, we believe that investing in women and girls strengthens families and communities. Supporting Pue’s next chapter is an investment in that shared future.

Read more about Pue’s recognition on Clayton State University’s website.