The Story of Children at the Da Nang Center for Street Children Protection

The fourth edition of the “Dream Trip,” an initiative by Vietnam Airlines, brought 80 underprivileged children from the Da Nang Center for Street Children Protection on a journey to reach their dreams.

From clumsy handwriting to first-time experiences, every moment on this “Dream Trip” sparked rays of hope for the children’s future.

“My dream is to become a chef so I can cook for my parents...” — a simple yet heartfelt sentence written by 6-year-old Bao Ngoc, filled with longing and love for the parents she never had the chance to grow up with, left the entire room in emotional silence during the event.

Ngoc and her sister currently live at the Da Nang Center for Street Children Protection. Though she cannot write yet, Ngoc insisted on having someone help her put her little dream into words. For her, the childhood memory of selling noodle soup with her mother — though difficult — remains a warm, beautiful image, and the root of a simple, loving dream.

The two brothers, Vo Le Quang Vy (12) and Vo Le Quang Dai (7), have also faced instability after their family fell apart. Without regular schooling, they had to wander the streets with their father to make ends meet. Their lives only began to stabilize once they were taken in by the center.

Now, Dai has finished first grade with excellent results, while Vy dreams of becoming a footballer like Haaland. His younger brother is excited about becoming a doctor to help others — dreams that may seem distant but were born from hardship and loss.

80 underprivileged children from Da Nang joined the 4th “Dream Trip”, a charity program launched by Vietnam Airlines in 2023.

This year’s special journey began in early June in Da Nang, connecting children from the Village of Hope and the Center for Street Children Protection — places of care for disadvantaged youth.

The children enjoyed a 2-day, 1-night stay at Meliá Danang Beach Resort, thanks to the collaboration with organizations like SpaceSpeakers Group, Meliá Danang Beach Resort, the Da Nang Association for the Support of Women and Disadvantaged Children, and the Vietnam Children’s Fund Social Enterprise.

The children visited the Ho Chi Minh Museum, relaxed and played at Meliá Danang Beach Resort — all first-time experiences for many, including their first time at the beach or in a luxury resort.

They also joined a music creation workshop with artists from SpaceSpeakers Group.

Notably, this year’s “Dream Trip” introduced children to career orientation activities, including a hands-on look at the aviation industry — a completely new world for many of them.

Under the guidance of Vietnam Airlines' senior flight attendants, the children got to role-play as professional cabin crew. For many, it was more than just fun — it was the first time they dared to imagine and voice their dreams.

The children got to wear flight attendant uniforms, with hair and makeup done just like the real crew.

Amid wide-eyed excitement, a small hand shot confidently into the air.

It belonged to Duong Ngo Bao Long (11), his eyes sparkling as he said, “My dream is to become a pilot so I can fly freely in the sky.” A dream that once seemed unreachable now felt real, thanks to an inspiring journey.

A magical Gala Dinner brought laughter and joy with clown shows and illusions.

“Every child carries a dream. We believe a journey filled with love and humanity is the first door to a brighter future. Through this program, Vietnam Airlines affirms its role not just as a national carrier conquering the skies, but also as a source of hope and inspiration for the young generation. Every journey of sharing is part of our sustainable development commitment — where success is measured not only by growth but by the positive impact we leave on the community and future generations.”

Mr. Doo Hyun Shim, General Manager of Meliá Danang Beach Resort, added:
“Events like the ‘Dream Trip’ prove that the hospitality industry can offer more than just comfort — it can bring hope and contribute to a better future for children.”

“Dream Trip is a journey that nurtures the dreams of underprivileged children.”

It is a testament to the power of connection among businesses, social organizations, and communities.
Not only does it provide tangible care, but it also nurtures dreams, builds confidence, and opens up opportunities for children’s holistic development.

In their journey to overcome adversity, sometimes a loving trip can be the first turning point that brings a child closer to their dream.

Source: Tuổi Trẻ