Nguyen Ngoc Bao Uyen is a resilient and talented young girl who has faced significant challenges from an early age. She lives with her mother, who has single-handedly raised Uyen while also caring for her maternal grandparents. The family’s modest income, earned through a small coffee shop, was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the shop to close and left her mother unemployed.
“That was an incredibly difficult time. I even thought about taking Uyen out of school because we couldn’t afford it,” – Mrs. Bich Thao, Uyen’s mother said. “But seeing her determination and joy in learning broke my heart.”
Just as Uyen’s education was at risk of being interrupted, support from Children of Vietnam (COV) arrived. Through Study Steps program, Uyen was able to continue her studies. Over the past three years, from sixth to eighth grade, she not only maintained her position as an outstanding student but also consistently topped her class. She also actively participated in school events and won third place in a district-level math competition—a remarkable accomplishment.
Uyen has clear goals for the future. She is striving to gain admission to Le Quy Don High School, one of the most prestigious schools in Da Nang City and Central Vietnam. Her dream is to become a businesswoman to support her family and help others in need.
“I want to start my own business and be successful so I can take care of my mother. I want her to travel and not work so hard anymore,” Uyen said.
During her recent summer break, Uyen taught herself how to knit and crochet, creating products like bags, keychains, socks, and hats. She even launched a small online shop to sell her handmade items, showcasing her independence and creativity spirit.
Uyen’s diligence and intelligence make her a role model for her peers, both academically and in everyday life.