Stories of #GoodChange
Continuing Partnership for Good:
Insights from the trip to Vietnam
At Good Neighbours Australia, we’re delighted when we have the opportunity to see the direct impact of our work happening through our implementing partners. This year, as part of our monitoring process, the team visited Vietnam to witness first-hand how our programs are making a difference in the communities we support.
Our Executive Director Sylvia and Campaign Manager Belinda were also able to explore new opportunities, while visiting stakeholders at project sites.
Working Together for Good Change
Good Neighbors Vietnam (GNV) was established in 2005 and is one of around 500 international NGOs operating in the country. Good Neighbours Australia has been working with GNV for the past five years on a range of community development projects, which are part of a large scope of programs administered by GNV.
Between 2005 and 2024, GNV has contributed over USD $54.8 million in cash and in-kind support, helping to achieve 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over time, their work has seen 51,000 children access improved education, provided scholarships or tuition support to nearly 6,800 students, built 17 schools and 66 libraries and distributed more than 200,000 books to schools and communities.
GNV is known as a high-capacity organisation, recognised nationally and with a wide-reaching volunteer network.
What We Saw on the Ground
During the trip, our team visited several project sites to meet with participants and see how our programs are making a difference:
- One Family, Two Pigs Project: We visited three families who are either currently raising black pigs or have done so in the past and are keen to restart the program. The program was put on pause, while local biosecurity issues were addressed over the last 18 months, or so. The project helps families build a stable income and improve their living conditions. Plans to revitalise the program include the introduction of livestock experts to improve animal husbandry techniques and farmer training to ensure long-term sustainability.
- Good Start Vocational Training: We caught up with graduates of our hairdressing program to see how they’re progressing. One graduate now runs her own salon in her village. Another graduate is working in a salon in Hanoi, to gain more experience. She’s also become a role model for her younger sister, who hopes to follow in her footsteps one day. We confirmed with the team that the project offers young people career path opportunities that enable self-reliance, equipping them with the skills needed to secure sustainable, long-term income.
Strengthening Local Connections and Exploring New Partnerships
While in Vietnam, our team also met with local government officials and school principals at one of our Community Development Project (CDP) areas, to discuss potential areas for collaboration. Interest in expanding programs like the “One Family, Two Pigs” project and supporting local cooperatives were explored.
In Hanoi, the team visited REACH, a local not-for-profit offering vocational training to marginalised youth. The team also met with Know One, Teach One (KOTO), an INGO providing hospitality training to young people. Both groups collaborate with GNV and have connections to Australian donors and supporters.
Looking Ahead
A big thank you to the entire GNV team for warmly welcoming Sylvia and Belinda. The trip was incredibly valuable, inspiring, and reaffirming our confidence in GNV’s strong project implementation and extensive local networks as our trusted partner in Vietnam. We’re excited to continue working together to create lasting change for local communities in Vietnam.
