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 Vivian Tran
Nearly all of my cousins, including my brother, attended last year's work camp. Because I was unable to request time off, all I could do was read their work camp blogs and watch them update our family group chat. Now, here I am writing my own so they can read mine!! Hey family!!!!
Read Moreby 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.
Read Moreby Nanhi Hodge
Why do so many campers return to work camp year after year? "Isn't it the same thing, just a different location?" While at its core, the answer is a resounding "Yes," just like the school we helped build, the true answer unfurls in countless layers.
Read Moreby Lê Võ Cao Thăng
During lunchtime, we sat with the kids not just to eat, but to laugh, play, and share a little joy together.
One of my favorite moments was an arm wrestling match with a young student. She was surprisingly strong! It was such a simple game, but it sparked so much laughter and connection.
Read Moreby Emma Tran
“Let me snooze, please,” I told my mom as she tried to wake me up. I was still sleepy and tired, but I got up, had breakfast, and made it onto the bus by 7:30 in the morning. It was a bumpy 90-minute ride to the school, but I was excited to see what the day would bring.
Read Moreby Thái Nguyễn
What’s the phrase? It takes a village to raise a child… and indeed, it takes a village to build a school for that child.
As I reflect on Day 3 of this mission, I can’t help but think back on the days before. I came into this work camp with an open mind and no fixed expectations. But as soon as we began our time in Hanoi, I was struck by the incredible level of organization it takes to manage, guide, and lead a group of over 60 people.
Read More
