The further you travel, the smaller you feel – and the bigger the world becomes.

Hello! I’m Nguyen Dinh Manh, 27 years old, a software developer at Concrete Co., Ltd.

On April 15-16, I had the opportunity to join Mr. Long on a volunteer trip to Bao Lam – Tuyen Quang. Having traveled to many remote areas before, I assumed this place would be underdeveloped and impoverished. But the journey there, and the moment I set foot in this land, truly surprised me in many ways.

Thanks to the attention from local leaders and generous benefactors, the infrastructure here has become well-developed and complete – from roads and electric lighting to essential daily necessities. Even more important, the schools have become much more solid and well-equipped, with sufficient desks and chairs and clean concrete yards where children can play freely. Having a sturdy school building surely gives the students more confidence and peace of mind to study and develop their talents. Seeing the innocent smiles and the bright, pure eyes of the children gave me a very special feeling – as if returning to my own childhood, carefree and full of learning.

During this trip, Mr. Long and I represented the company in presenting two laptops to teachers at Lang Can Secondary School. We understand that caring for teachers is also caring for their students, since teachers are the ones who directly nurture and shape these young minds. We hope that with improved equipment, their daily work and teaching will become more effective and efficient.

Although the trip was short, I learned a great deal from the other members of the volunteer group. They know how to give value, build for the future, and carry a far-reaching vision. I, too, hope to keep learning and striving so that one day I can help build my country and become someone useful to society.

As this journey comes to a close, I am truly grateful to the company for trusting and giving me the chance to contribute, even in a small way, to something positive for society. More than just a trip, it was an opportunity to broaden my perspective and learn from wonderful people from various companies and countries, bringing back many unforgettable experiences.