Sunflowers for the Future

by Thiên-Vy Lê

Nestled in the foothills of lush green mountains, the freshly painted Sunflower Mission school stands proudly as a beacon of hope for young students in the surrounding countryside. Tireless volunteers, once strangers turned family, wipe their foreheads as they survey the fruits of their efforts: a fully furnished primary school, complete with bright, airy classrooms, a stocked library, an innovative computer room, and an exciting playground. This is what the Sunflower Mission is all about—passionate individuals who come together to uplift others through education.

Through these schools, children in remote and marginalized communities will have access to life-changing opportunities and experiences. Throughout the workcamp, it was amazing to witness their joy and the brightness in their laughter. Their positive energy lifted everyone's spirits as they joined us to play while we put the finishing touches on the local school they would be attending. As the children and their families gathered for the opening ceremony, whether they were performing endearing dances or delighting in automated Lego birds in the STEM workshop, I was touched by their sincere smiles and wide-eyed wonder. Ban Chuoi's children may not have access to the privileges we take for granted in the US, but there is undoubtedly an effervescent glow in each of their eyes that I hope will never dim.

I believe the education these children receive at Ban Chuoi Primary School will lay the foundation for the success of future generations. They are Vietnam's future; though they are now only seeds, with guidance and care, they will bloom into sunflowers, beautiful and radiant.

I am grateful to have had this opportunity to contribute to Sunflower Mission and their goal. This trip has been eye-opening and unforgettable, and it is thanks to all the wonderful people I have met during it: kind-hearted individuals whom I hadn't known at all before the workcamp but have now formed lifelong bonds with, hardworking people who devote endless amounts of time and effort to expanding education, and inspirational individuals who encourage me to strive to new heights day after day.