BREATHE LIFE INTO DREAMS.

As a child, Phung Tran lived in a poor, remote village in Vietnam with little opportunities, especially for girls. Fortunately, Sunflower Mission built its first elementary school in her village in 2002. Phung enrolled as a 4th grader, receiving a scholarship that supported her education all the way through college. 

She aimed high and achieved her goals. Determined to pursue a career in science, technology, and engineering (STEM), she attended the only engineering college in Vietnam, usually reserved for boys, the rich, and the well-connected. 

Phung joined Intel Vietnam as an intern and rose through the ranks to Engineering Manager. Earlier this year, she was awarded  Intel’s Gordon Moore Hero of the Year  in recognition of  her extraordinary commitment to the community.

Ansh, a 12-year-old student at Ponglipur secondary school, lives with his parents and older sibling. Inspired by his participation in the Aarohini critical dialogue classes and boys' camp, Ansh took on the responsibility of assisting his mother with household chores. Despite facing criticism from his uncle, he continued to support his mother without hesitation.

One distressing day, Ansh intervened when his uncle, who was under the influence, physically abused his mother. He courageously stopped the violence and warned his uncle about the consequences. Gathering all family members, Ansh counseled them on women's rights and the laws against domestic violence, raising awareness within his household. Ansh continues to actively support his mother and encourages his friends and siblings to uphold gender justice principles, making a significant impact in his community.

Muffta joined the Business Skills Center at Starfish International to study Cookery and Pastry. She lives with her mother and siblings in a small family compound.

Following the passing of her father, Muffta's mother became the sole provider of the family, taking care of her and her siblings. During difficult times, Muffta took on various day jobs to help with familial expenses. She faced challenges such as affording materials for school practicals, paying school fees on time and having enough money for transportation.

Since joining the school, Muffta has gained extensive knowledge and skills in the classroom. She is now confident in her ability to bake an assortment of pastries and cook delicious, quality meals. She hopes that by the time she graduates, the delicacies she creates will be worthy of top chef quality. Muffta's dream is to set up her own catering business to support her family financially and help train other young people passionate about learning cookery and pastry.

Derlys, a young woman from Yarumales village in North Cauca (Colombia) lost her father and an older sister when she was a young girl. Determined to help support her mother and younger siblings, Derlys dreamed of building an event decoration business that would be known for its quality services and employ others in her community. 

In 2021, Derlys entered FUNDAEC's Supporting Community Leaders (SCL) program where she gained essential skills in finance, administration, and event management. Today, Derlys's dream of running a successful business in service to her community has now come true.

Reflecting on her journey, Derlys remarked, “This program... has had an impact on my life because it taught me that I can make a living from a trade, help and contribute to the community, and acquire discipline and commitment to myself.”