Leading with Heart

by Lê Minh Khôi

“Do we want to go fast, or do we want to take care of each other?”

That question echoed in my mind throughout all five days of Workcamp.

Workcamp 2025 wasn’t just about building a school or promoting education. It was also about growing together, learning to lead, and building something deeper: connection, confidence, and community.

As part of the Vietnam team, I had the opportunity to help build the library at Hưng Lợi 2 Primary School and cohost a STEAM workshop for 3rd to 5th graders. We introduced science and tech in a fun, hands-on way, hoping to spark curiosity and imagination in young minds.

This journey began months ago, back in March, with the support of both the US team and dedicated Vietnam mentors. Many of them were already experienced and could have completed the work much faster. But that was not the point. The heart of this Workcamp was to create space for both Vietnamese and American youth to step up, take ownership, and grow into leaders.

There were plenty of challenges, before and during the Workcamp. But through late night calls, patient mentoring, and an unshakable sense of teamwork, we found a way forward. We supported one another through the tough moments and celebrated the small wins along the way.

In the end, we did not just build a school.

We built trust. We built friendships. We built purpose.

And we crossed the finish line together.