Xin chào, mọi người! My name’s Joshua Santos (or Lê Tuấn Tú to my friends here in Vietnam). I’ve been living in Vietnam as an expat for the past 10 months, supported by the New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program, a signature initiative of the Australian Government, and I recently joined Survival Skills Vietnam (SSVN) as an intern. I can genuinely say this experience has been enriching and valuable.
A Story of Real Community Impact
When I first encountered SSVN through their Drowning Prevention Program at a charity event, I knew I was witnessing something important. This wasn’t just “training” – it was a movement of practical, life-saving skills being taught to everyday people. Watching families learn together made me see firsthand how much these skills mean to Vietnamese communities, where family and community care go hand in hand.
In Vietnam, there’s a strong emphasis on collective responsibility – it’s not just about individual well-being but about safeguarding the entire community. This cultural value reinforces the idea that each person plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and resilience of their loved ones and neighbours.
One moment that struck me was during a training session when a participant shared, “Tôi muốn bảo vệ gia đình và cộng đồng của tôi, và giờ tôi có những công cụ để làm điều đó” (“I want to protect my family and community, and now I have the tools to do that”). Hearing this commitment to safeguarding loved ones and neighbours was a powerful reminder of how these skills can change lives and strengthen our communities.
Why SSVN’s Mission Matters to Me and to Vietnam
Since joining SSVN, I’ve completed their CPR, First Aid Level 1 and Level 2, and Drowning Prevention training, all of which adhere to international standards. This experience has offered so much more than just skills; SSVN’s six core values – “Safety First,” “Give First,” “Integrity,” and the commitment to lifelong learning aren’t just slogans. They come alive in every program, fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork among participants.
I’ve learned that these skills do more than save lives – they build resilience, confidence, and a shared purpose that strengthens our communities from within.
Empowering Communities through Lifesaving Skills
SSVN is empowering everyday people with the capabilities to save lives and build resilience. As someone who has benefitted from SSVN’s mission, I can confidently say they are dedicated to creating a safer Vietnam. By equipping individuals with essential skills, they inspire a ripple effect of safety and community care that spreads across the nation.
Join Us in Celebrating SSVN’s 10th Anniversary
SSVN is celebrating 10 years of empowering communities, and I’m grateful to be part of their story. This experience is an invitation for everyone to help make life-saving skills accessible to all. Together, let’s build a safer, healthier Vietnam!
