130 million VND of compassion for “Wings of Dreams”

“I am truly moved. This amount of money is so large that I could never have imagined receiving it, even in my dreams. I feel that I am not alone on my journey to school. I promise to study hard and live well so that, in the future, I can return to help others in difficult circumstances like mine today,” shared Ngo Dinh Phu An, a 12th-grade student at Thong Nhat A High School, during the 123rd “Wings of Dreams” scholarship award ceremony held on October 15.

The programme was jointly organised by Dong Nai Newspaper and Radio, Television (DNNRTV) in collaboration with the Dong Nai Study Promotion Fund. Companions in this edition included the Dong Nai Association for Disabled People, Orphans and Poor Patients, Trang Bom Commune, Thong Nhat A High School, and various charitable clubs, volunteer groups and benefactors near and far.

The 123rd “Wings of Dreams” scholarship award ceremony was held in a solemn and warm atmosphere at Thong Nhat A High School (Trang Bom Commune, Dong Nai Province). Photo: Phu Quy

The story of Phu An moved everyone present. He was born into a disadvantaged family. His parents divorced when he was in Grade 4. Afterwards, he lived with his father in a rented room, while his younger sister, who has had a neurological disorder since birth, stayed with his mother. Some time later, his mother remarried, but her financial situation remained modest.

Tragedy struck again in 2024, when his father passed away due to a stroke. Not wanting to become a burden to his mother, An chose to remain in the old rented room. His mother visits him occasionally to offer encouragement, but for the most part, he lives independently, studying while working part-time to cover his living expenses.

After learning about his circumstances, the “Wings of Dreams” programme quickly reached out to provide support. Although it was the first time Thong Nhat A High School hosted the event, preparations were carried out solemnly and warmly. Many volunteer teams travelled long distances to attend and personally hand over meaningful scholarships to help An pursue his dreams.

The Dong Nai Study Promotion Fund awarded a scholarship worth VND 30 million. Photo: Phu Quy

Duong Thi Tuyet, representative of the Dong Nai Association for Disabled People, Orphans and Poor Patients, presented VND 5 million. Photo: Phu Quy

Nguyen Van Chien, Vice Chairman of Trang Bom Commune People’s Committee, awarded a VND 2 million scholarship. Photo: Phu Quy

At the event, Ngo Dinh Phu An received a total of VND 130 million in scholarships and donations. The entire amount was deposited in a savings account for him to use throughout his future studies.

“The road ahead for Phu An may still be full of challenges, but we believe that these heartfelt scholarships, along with the compassion and kindness shown today, will be a special source of strength to ensure he never gives up on his dreams and aspirations,” expressed Le Tran Thien Ly, a member of the Dong Nai Study Promotion Fund.

The school’s teaching staff and students also contributed VND 32 million, which increased to over VND 35 million by the end of the ceremony. Photo: Phu Quy

Speaking at the event, Bach Thanh Lua, Principal of Thong Nhat A High School, affirmed: “The school is committed to continuing its support for Phu An in his studies. We will also manage and use the savings book responsibly, ensuring that this compassionate gift brings the most practical benefits.”

Philanthropists shared the joy with student Ngo Dinh Phu An on the day he received the “Wings of Dreams” scholarship. Photo: Phu Quy

The success of the ‘Wings of Dreams’ journey has warmed the hearts of everyone who witnessed it. Beyond the love, it represents a commitment from all participating organisations to continue spreading kindness throughout the community so that no disadvantaged student is left behind.

By Thu Hien - Translated by My Le, Thu Ha