Painting a Future

by McKenzie Le

Reflecting on my first ever work camp with Sunflower Mission, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride.

A year ago, the name "Sunflower Mission" was introduced to me through my family members, Anh Hai and Chi Thao, or as you may know them, Caden and Sydney. It was the two of them who passionately shared their experiences.

Little did I know that their stories would ignite a journey of my own. Joining Sunflower Mission's 20th work camp in Kien Giang, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education.

In remote corners of the country, where poverty casts a long shadow, Sunflower Mission illuminated Rach Gia with beautifully painted schools.

Painting the ever-so-straight lines along the walls to scraping the paint off the floor, which is surprisingly fun, was difficult to endure while simultaneously battling heat and exhaustion.

But the laughter of children as they ran into freshly painted classrooms, the determined faces of volunteers mixing paint in the scorching hot classrooms—these moments crystallize the essence of our mission.

Each stroke of paint was a brushstroke of hope, a foundation for a brighter future. But beyond the tangible structures, it was the intangible bonds we forged that left the deepest imprint.

In the embrace of Vietnamese hospitality, I found humility and resilience.

In the laughter of children and locals, I found joy and innocence untouched by hardship.

And in the collective effort of our team, I found the true meaning of community and service.

Now, and for the rest of my life, I carry with me not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose—to continue painting a future where every child has access to quality education.