When Martha Sharp Hughes saw Burmese classmates at her school not fitting in, she took action.
As president of Kentucky Youth Assembly and Kentucky United National Assembly (KYA and KUNA), Martha Sharp spearheaded a project to help newly arrived Burmese students assimilate into Owensboro High School.
“They had a difficult time in their life in Burma,” Martha Sharp said. “I felt we could help them.”
Martha Sharp says the 12 or so Burmese students at OHS are shy and lonely. They have trouble communicating with the difference in language. These students left their homes and often times their families behind in Burma when they were relocated to the United States.
Guidance Counselor Christie Fogle commends Martha Sharp for her kindness and compassion for others. Ms. Fogle is proud that Martha Sharp befriends the students, works with their translator and sees that the needs of these students are met.
“She is one of a kind who truly cares about others,” Ms. Fogle said.
Martha Sharp’s mother, Leslie Hughes, says her daughter inspires her every day.
“She has flourished at OHS because of the diversity and the great teachers,” Leslie said. “I am excited about her future. She has a lot of strengths and knows how to connect with people.”
Martha Sharp is currently deciding between Belmont University in Nashville and Wofford College in South Carolina, where she hopes to major in environmental studies and conservation.
“Martha Sharp has a broad view of the world,” Leslie said. “She understands we were put on earth to serve.”