From Orphanage to University: Meet Hien and Hanh
Hanh’s Journey: The Power of Perseverance
Hanh didn’t arrive at Thi An as a young child; she joined in 7th grade, already used to the freedom of living with family. Transitioning to life at the orphanage brought discipline, and challenges. Missing her uncle and her old life, she struggled at first. But a single piece of advice from her uncle stuck with her: “You must study hard if you want to change your future.”
At Thi An, despite power cuts and having to study by flashlight during hot summer evenings, education became her hope. She vividly remembers Auntie Long, a guiding figure who helped her choose her career path. Facing financial constraints, Hanh chose Educational Quality Management at the University of Education, a practical choice that still allowed her to give back to the orphanage she called home.
Today despite her difficult start, Hanh was able to find a job at the University of Science in training and quality assurance and is preparing to pursue her Master’s degree. Reflecting on her time at Thi An, she wishes younger kids could access the kind of reliable solar power available now, perhaps saving their eyesight from hours spent studying in dim conditions.
She also shares a heartfelt wish about kids growing up in orphanages: “Please don’t judge us based on our circumstances. We didn’t choose the situations we were born into. Some people assume we or our parents must have done something wrong to end up here, and that really hurts.”
Her message to supporters is heartfelt: “Without your support, I might have ended up on a darker path. Thank you for seeing us, believing in us, and helping us build brighter futures.”
Hien’s Path: From Uncertainty to Empowerment
Hien joined Thi An in first grade, her memories of early childhood filled mostly with the joy of being surrounded by other children. At the orphanage, she learned responsibility early, caring for younger kids taught her discipline and kindness.
But growing up had its challenges. Being shy and lacking exposure to the world outside, Hien often felt small and insecure. Yet those experiences sparked her determination to forge a different path. Inspired by stories from flight attendants, she chose to study English, dreaming of exploring the world. Now, Hien is building her future at university, gaining confidence through part-time jobs, internships, and new experiences.
For Hien, solar power represents more than just electricity—it’s access to technology and the modern world. “I wish we had solar power when I was younger; it would’ve introduced us to technology sooner, preparing us better for life outside,” she shares.
To the community supporting Little Sunshine Pledge, Hien sends a warm message: “Every little act of kindness builds into something meaningful. When you give with your heart, you receive something powerful back.”
A Brighter Tomorrow, Together
Both Hanh and Hien’s stories illustrate something essential: the power of education, resilience, and community support to transform lives. Solar energy at Thi An isn’t just about keeping lights on, it’s about unlocking dreams, nurturing potential, and building futures filled with opportunity.
From everyone at Little Sunshine Pledge and from the hearts of those like Hanh and Hien: thank you. Your kindness isn’t just lighting up rooms, it’s lighting up lives.