Tạ Khắc Trường Duy - A Journey of Volunteerism and Innovation

Participating in social activities and nurturing community connections provides an opportunity for personal development, cultivating robust relationships, and acquiring knowledge from various cultures. Ta Khac Truong Duy, a third-year Public Relations student at the University of Economics and Finance (UEF), is currently engaged in a noteworthy experience as a member of The UEF Center of Service-Learning (CSL). Duy's journey began when he joined the Heart To Hand initiative, a program that aims to give impoverished communities access to high-quality volunteer teaching and job counseling. He was motivated by the driven people who shared his goal of having a positive influence when he went to the interview. After that, Duy taught 12th graders at Mai Tam Shelter as a volunteer. He was even more committed to helping the students pursue further education after he got to know them and their goals. In his current role as project coordinator, Duy keeps advancing the project's goal of helping the community.

Community dedication
Although Duy had no prior volunteer experience before joining the initiative, he had always been drawn to community service. The "real world" welcomed Duy as he stepped outside his comfort zone. His enthusiasm and tenacity inspired him to participate in various community projects, from planning fundraisers to instructing impoverished kids. Through these encounters, Duy not only improved people's lives but also acquired important knowledge and abilities. Duy said, "Volunteering has been a truly rewarding experience. It has allowed me to help disadvantaged children see a brighter future and has helped me develop important qualities like empathy, connection, and a sense of purpose."
Duy has broadened his skill set as a project coordinator through various activities, including collaboration with outside groups and community engagement. Despite early difficulties managing a team, Duy has overcome them thanks to his dedication to personal development. He has honed his abilities to listen intently, form wise opinions, and tackle issues methodically. "I think it's critical to approach problems from several perspectives to identify the greatest answers. In addition to improving my problem-solving abilities, this belief has strengthened my feeling of accountability to my job and the community," Duy said. Now that the project is his passion, Duy gives the community more than just his professional expertise—he gives it his all. "I've considered leaving the orphanage numerous times for personal reasons, but I've always been drawn back by my love for the kids there. In addition to being a trip with many ups and downs, the last two and a half years have seen tremendous growth. The ties we've forged are unbreakable in spite of the difficulties," Duy said.
Each of us brings a unique perspective, coming together to form a colorful and united team. Duy hopes to organize more fun activities and outings to deepen our understanding of one another. By sharing laughter, tears, and sweat, we'll create lasting memories and a strong bond that will keep us together for years. I hope you'll continue to find joy and fulfillment in our work together.
With a heart for the community, Duy is dedicated to fostering a strong and dedicated team that can work together to bring about positive change. He is committed to developing new and innovative projects that will benefit the community.
Duy’s path is a powerful example of how personal growth and community development can go hand in hand. His efforts have enriched the lives of the children he works with and inspired a new generation of leaders.