Before his death, Sai Awn (aka Sai Hsi Khur), was a local community leader and anti-coal advocate who worked with local youth groups in Hsipaw township’s Nam Ma area, where he opposed coal mining operations and fought for compensation for local residents whose farmland was damaged by mining operations.

“Sai Hsi has selflessly worked for the interests of his people. He predicted the imminent danger so he persuaded the public and youth to hold protests [against the coal mine]. He showed intolerance for injustice and the attitude of a good leader in order for the new generation of youth to follow in his footsteps,” said Sai Hor Hseng, spokesperson for the Shan Human Rights Foundation.

Sai Hsi Khur passed away from lung disease at the age of 24 on July 24 this year. At the tiem of his death, He was still active in anti-mining and environmental activism. After Sai Hsu Khur’s death, his colleague Sai Aung Pa told the Shan Herald that the activist was an honest and hardworking young man who supported his coworkers and valued the environment.

“I feel very happy that he received the award. I believe it will give strength to his coworkers in fighting for farmers’ rights,” said Nan Hla Khin, Sai Awn’s widow. “ I feel very sad that he is no longer in this world. He would have been delighted if he were still alive,” she added.

The award is named for author and activist Inge Sargent (aka Mahadevi Sao Nang Thu Sandi), wife of Hsipaw Saopha Sao Kya Seng and author of Twilight Over Burma: My Life as a Shan Princess.

The Sargent and a committee of local advisers bestow the award, along with a US$4000 prize, every year to a Shan candidate who demonstrates leadership and a commitment to community service, peace, and democracy.

Sai His Khur is the award’s tenth honoree. Last year, the honor was given to Sai Su, 28, the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD) party general secretary for Panglong township.