In his roles as Deputy Secretary of the Youth Union and Chairman of the Youth Federation in Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang, Vuong Ngoc Trai has introduced many innovative initiatives to youth activities. His contributions have been recognised by the Da Nang’s Youth Federation, earning him the "Youth Living Beautifully" Award as one of 18 recipients in 2024.

Vuong Ngoc Trai (first right) visiting a person in difficult circumstances. Photo: T.L

Supporting "Union’s Foster Children"

Entering the 2024-2025 academic year, Huynh Mai Ai Tran, a seventh grader at the Huynh Ba Chanh Junior High School, almost had to abandon her studies due to financial hardship. Tran lives with her two younger siblings and grandparents who are in their 80s.

“When the new school year was about to start, my grandparents told me I might have to stop studying to help care for my siblings. I felt so sad,” Tran recalled tearfully. Upon learning about her situation, Trai visited her family and sought support from benefactors, enabling her to continue her education.

Similarly, Nguyen Thi Thanh Quy, a ninth grader at the same school, received aid through the “Union’s Foster Children” programme, with financial support amounting to VND 6 million per school year. Additionally, the Hoa Hai Ward Youth Union arranged for university students and former local Youth Union members, now teachers, to provide tutoring, either in-person or online, as needed.

Trai shared that having experienced financial struggles himself, he empathised with the children's aspirations to stay in school. The “Union’s Foster Children” model not only provides financial aid but also supports the children throughout their education and development journey.

"Tree of Initiatives" for the community

Guided by his belief that life is about giving, Trai actively participates in youth movements and has spearheaded numerous community-oriented initiatives. Notable projects include the "Battery House" model, which has established six collection points for used batteries in residential areas to protect the environment, and the "Peaceful School Gate" programme, which engages over 100 youth members in traffic management and the creation of safe drop-off zones for students. He also maintains the "Self-Managed Students Club," contributing to safety and order in rental housing areas.

As Head of the Green Living Youth Club, Trai has organised the planting of over 100 trees in local playgrounds, led clean-up activities at Tan Tra and Non Nuoc beaches, improved landscapes along roads, and eliminated waste hotspots in residential areas. He has also hosted skill-building sessions for local youth, benefiting over 100 students.

Trai is also known for initiating the Free Life Jacket Station at the Non Nuoc Beach, which provides 30 life vests of various sizes for visitors, particularly school-aged children, to use when swimming. “This idea came from our ward’s 7.5km of coastline, where groups of youngsters often swim, and accidents have occurred” Trai explained.

Dedicated to Youth Union work, Trai embraces numerous “invisible” tasks, rarely taking weekends off, especially during the stormy season or summer volunteer campaigns.

“I love this work and aspire to contribute even more. I feel fulfilled when I can do something for the community, no matter how small it may be,” he said.

Reporting by THIEN LAM - Translating by TRUC VY