Every year, volunteers representing Sunflower Mission travel to Vietnam as part of our annual Work Camp to help complete a school in progress, teach workshops for local students and families, and present scholarships and gifts. Here, we document our reflections, thoughts, and lessons learned. Follow along.
by Thanh Bui
Daily, a group of kids would stop by and play with SM work campers. Today was no different, except we had a young parent. As I approached to talk to her, her broad smile and excitement left little doubt how she feels about the newly built school.
Read Moreby Zak Pham
Today was my second day of workcamp. It was a very slow morning as I ate all the phở I could stomach at breakfast. After breakfast: the bus. Every day driving to the workcamp is a new experience. The bumps, twists, turns, and brief moments of existential crisis packaged with each wobbly bus ride. So far none have been injured.
Read Moreby Dan Q. Dao
Today, we wrapped up our various painting projects, including a sunflowers mural painted by: Phoebe, Tyler, Kyra, Zoe, Zak, and Hayley. See how Day 2 of Workcamp went down with this photo gallery.
Read Moreby Sara Akerberg
Hi! My name is Sara Akerberg. I am 10 years old, going to the 5th grade at Condit Elementary School. This is my first time going to Vietnam and with Sunflower Mission. I am going with my mom to see where she was born. I want to learn about the country, its people, and volunteering.
Read Moreby Tyler Dao
Many of us were still jet lag but anxious and excited to finally see the school which we will be working the next couple weeks. The short 1-hr drive bus ride started early Tuesday morning around 7:30 am from Muong Thanh hotel — I am a notoriously late riser but found I awoke and on time for roll call.
Read Moreby Ethan Bui
”Palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy...” Unfortunately, no statement could’ve explained my feelings on the bus ride more accurately. Our first commute to the school was undoubtedly nerve wracking and nauseating, full of twists and turns, and seemingly cliff-hanging moments. Thankfully, I had my trusty bus buddy Paloma by my side to comfort me.
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