By Ro Maung Shwe
Mohammed Aziz Khan, a 12 year old madrasa student from the Rohingya refugee community, is gaining recognition for his expressive artwork that reflects the suffering, resilience, and aspirations of his people. Growing up amid displacement and uncertainty, Aziz has emerged as a promising young artist who uses drawing as a way to document lived experience and speak beyond the confines of the camps.
Family Roots and Early Loss
Aziz is the third son of Akter Kamal and the late Morijaan, and the grandson of the late Haji Fazal Ahamed. His family originates from Keyari Prang village in northern Maungdaw Township, Arakan State. For decades, the family was known locally for its role in education, community leadership, and economic activity. Members of the family held senior positions in village administration for nearly forty years, and Aziz’s grandfather owned the village market.
Aziz lost his mother at the age of four while still in Myanmar. Since then, he has been raised by his father alongside his four siblings. His childhood was shaped by violence, loss, and repeated displacement.
During the 2016 military operations in Arakan State, Keyari Prang village was among the first to be attacked and burned. Homes, farmland, and the market were destroyed. Family members said security forces and armed groups subjected civilians to widespread harassment, detention, and abuse.
At the time, Aziz’s uncle, Mg Mg Gyi, served as chairman of the village administration. He and other leaders were reportedly detained and tortured, and later released only after a large payment was demanded. With no protection and no prospects for safety, villagers fled the area.
Life in Exile
Aziz’s family first sought refuge in Kutupalong camp in 2016. Due to the absence of livelihood opportunities, they briefly returned to Myanmar. However, renewed violence in August 2017 forced them to flee once again. The family now lives in Kutupalong Camp 2E, where ten family members depend largely on humanitarian assistance.
Aziz’s father works as a teacher, but supporting the household remains difficult under camp conditions.
Education and Early Artistic Growth
Aziz is currently a Grade 6 student at a madrasa. Known among teachers for his discipline and eagerness to learn, he balances religious education with participation in NGO supported learning sessions and youth development programs.
His interest in art developed after he joined an NGO supported art club. There, he began using drawing as a way to express the Rohingya experience. With encouragement from his elder brother and sister, Aziz started producing artwork focused on displacement, injustice, and community resilience.
Over time, he participated in multiple workshops, training sessions, and competitions, gradually refining his skills and gaining confidence.
Recognition and Achievements
Aziz has received recognition for his artwork through several humanitarian and advocacy initiatives. He won third place in an art competition organized by the Rohingya Human Rights Network during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, where he received an award and financial support.
He also participated in an art workshop organized by the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner and TIKA. His artwork, themed around justice and camp life, was selected for official calendar printing. During the event, the Camp in Charge acknowledged his work and presented him with gifts.
On January 28, 2026, Aziz took part in a national advocacy session titled “Igniting Hope: The Rohingya Dreams,” organized by the Rohingya Advocacy Center. His artwork was printed on official event bags, and he was honored with appreciation gifts in recognition of his creativity and dedication.
One of his drawings depicts a child inside a tent marked with the words “Camp Life: No Future Without Justice.” Through imagined scenes of dignity, documentation, and belonging, the artwork reflects a childhood shaped by waiting and uncertainty. The image conveys a call not only for justice, but for a future where dignity replaces despair.
Art as Purpose
Aziz says each recognition motivates him to continue learning and improving his artistic skills. He views art as a way to tell the story of his people and to raise awareness about the Rohingya crisis beyond the camps.
Support from his family and community programs has played an important role in strengthening his confidence and sense of purpose.
A Young Voice of Hope
Aziz Khan’s journey shows how creativity and determination can grow even under extreme hardship. Through his artwork, he is developing his own talents while carrying the experiences of his community to wider audiences.
As a young Rohingya refugee artist, Aziz represents resilience, expression, and a quiet but determined hope for a future shaped by dignity and justice.
