Stories: Children, Community, Future

Ngan grew up in the mountainous District of Quang Hoa, Cao Bang Province where living conditions are poor. Education, therefore, was far from a priority, especially for girls like Ngan. In the community where she lives, young women were expected to get married early, work as subsistence farmers or earn a living by working in factories far from home. This had been going on for generations, from her grandmother to her mother but Ngan had another plan to change the status quo.

Sponsorship changes the game

The support and letters from her French sponsor, Jerome changed Ngan’s outlook on life. “After being enrolled into ChildFund’s [sponsorship] program, I did change a lot. From a timid little girl, I have grown up into a confident and fearless young woman. My sponsor’s letters opened a whole new world to me. Through photos and simple sharing from my sponsor, a girl previously confined to a remote village like me was enabled to learn about the vast and beautiful world. I have nurtured the dream to explore other cultures and dive in those picturesque sceneries myself one day. It was also an enormous source of motivation for me to continue my study at a university instead of working in a factory after high school like some other peers,” says Ngan.

The nine-year connection with her sponsor Jerome was vital to Ngan’s motivation and sense of belonging. “Like many other kids, I was so delighted to receive small gifts. Every time I received annual gifts from ChildFund like school supplies, crayons, water bottles, etc., I felt so appreciative and grateful to my sponsor and program implementers for their utmost care for children like me,” recalls Ngan.

Sponsorship not only enabled Ngan to continue her studies but also brought about sustainable and meaningful changes in the life of other children and families in Ngan’s community. “From a poor and disadvantaged community where people’s knowledge was limited due to little access to advanced technology, my hometown has totally transformed thanks to various impactful project activities of ChildFund, namely training on rearing techniques, communications sessions on child protection, provision of breeding animals, support with the building of latrines, etc.,” says Ngan.

Ngan has a dream

Ten years have passed since the first day Ngan had a sponsor. She is now a second-year student of Social Work Studies in a renowned university. The care and kindness from a stranger for years have partially shaped who she is today. Ngan embraces the dream to continue the journey of kindness that her sponsor embarked on. “I really hope that after graduation, I can use my knowledge, experience and passion to support my community. That’s one of the reasons I chose Social Work as my career,” shares Ngan.

Child Sponsorship not only makes lasting changes in the life of children but is also a powerful connection tool, giving children hope, aspirations and belief in kindness and good things in life.

Children in Ngan’s community enjoy studying in a newly built school

Clean water bringing better health to local people