After spending almost 13 years living abroad, I found myself at a crossroads in June 2023, returning to Vietnam. It wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision; it was rooted in a long-held goal—giving back to the community and making a positive impact in the world.
This dream of contributing meaningfully has been a constant in my life, shaped by my incredible experience at Pearson College in Canada, one of the United World Colleges (UWC). UWC schools are renowned for their focus on education as a force to unite people, nations, and cultures. This philosophy profoundly influenced my worldview, instilling in me a desire to champion education and its transformative power.
Reconnecting with the UWC Community
Once back in Vietnam, one of the first things I did was reconnect with the UWC community. From alumni to educators and volunteers, I found myself in a network of passionate individuals united by shared values. It was during this journey that I stumbled upon Sam’s profile. His mission is to bring the UWC spirit to Vietnam by creating a UWC school here.
Curiosity piqued, I reached out and proposed dinner. That one meal turned out to be the most inspiring dinner I’d had in years. I’ve had my fair share of “big talks” from my time at Point72, one of the largest hedge funds in the world. While those conversations often revolved around money, this one felt refreshingly different.
Sam was was brimming with passion for education. He shared his dream of building a UWC in Vietnam, a project he had been working on since February 2023. With a background that includes stints at top universities and global educational institutions, Sam brought a wealth of knowledge and an infectious enthusiasm to the table.
Inspired by Sam’s Vision
Listening to Sam’s journey was like a spark lighting a fire in my own heart. Here was someone so dedicated to creating an educational environment that drives positive change, it was impossible not to feel inspired. Since that dinner, we’ve kept in touch, and our conversations never fail to remind me of the impact one person can have when they are committed to their cause.
Just yesterday, over a cozy tea session (yes, we’re those people who love an afternoon tea and a good chat), Sam shared updates about his summer camp project. His focus is always on how to add value and support young people in achieving their dreams through education.
His work has been remarkable. What stands out the most is his positivity. Even in the face of challenges—and let’s be real, launching a UWC school in Vietnam is no small task—Sam maintains an attitude that’s both determined and optimistic.
Facing Challenges with Courage
Sam’s journey is a powerful reminder that challenges are an inevitable part of any worthwhile endeavor. Whether it’s convincing stakeholders, navigating red tape, or building a community of support, the road to making his dream a reality has been far from smooth.
But challenges, as Sam demonstrates, aren’t roadblocks; they’re opportunities to grow. His ability to stay focused on his mission while embracing setbacks with grace is a lesson in resilience.
For me, returning to Vietnam after years abroad was its own kind of challenge. Adjusting to a new (and yet familiar) environment, reconnecting with my roots, and finding ways to contribute meaningfully required patience and adaptability. But just like Sam, I’ve come to see challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles.
The Power of Community
One of the biggest takeaways from my conversations with Sam is the importance of community. His summer camp project, for instance, is a space for young people to discover their potential, connect with others, and gain the tools they need to succeed.
In a world that often feels divided, the sense of unity and purpose that Sam fosters through his work is deeply inspiring. It’s a reminder that change doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s a collective effort.
For anyone curious about his work, I highly recommend checking out his project updates on Sam’s Substack.
Overcoming Challenges with Humor and Positivity
One of my favorite things about Sam is his sense of humor. Let’s be honest: tackling big issues like education reform and building a UWC school in Vietnam could easily feel overwhelming. But Sam approaches it with a lightness that makes even the toughest challenges seem manageable.
It’s a trait I’ve tried to adopt in my own life. Whether it’s adapting to life back in Vietnam or navigating the complexities of my career, I’ve learned that a little humor goes a long way. Challenges don’t seem so daunting when you can laugh at the absurdities along the way.
Moving Forward
As I reflect on my journey so far, I realize that change is rarely easy. It pushes us out of our comfort zones, forces us to confront our fears, and demands resilience. But it’s also where the magic happens.
Meeting people like Sam reminds me why I came back to Vietnam in the first place. It’s about being part of something bigger than myself. Whether it’s through supporting educational initiatives, mentoring young people, or simply sharing my experiences, I’m committed to making a difference. And while the road ahead may have its share of challenges, I’m excited to see where it leads.
Final Thoughts
Change and challenges are two sides of the same coin. They test our limits but also reveal our strength. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my time abroad and my journey back home, it’s that the key to overcoming challenges lies in staying positive, building a supportive community, and never losing sight of your purpose.
So, here’s to embracing change, facing challenges with courage, and finding inspiration in the people around us. And if you ever need a reminder that one person can make a difference, look no further than Sam and his dream of creating a UWC in Vietnam.
Who knows? Maybe one day, his vision will inspire a new generation of young leaders who, like me, are ready to take on the world—and give back to it, too.
