Do Thi Phuong Anh, born 2003, a young woman raised at SOS Children’s Village Hai Phong, has just graduated with distinction. In 2021, Phuong Anh was the only recipient of the Lion’s Heart Scholarship awarded by British University Vietnam. The scholarship is worth VND1 billion per academic year, covering full tuition for English foundation courses, the university foundation program, the undergraduate degree, as well as living expenses and accommodation throughout the study period.

Anh said the opportunity to learn about this scholarship was quite accidental. During an information session introducing the scholarship at the village, realizing it was a door opening many opportunities for children like her, Phuong Anh decided to take a "risk."

Having no experience in applying for scholarships or designing an impressive portfolio, Phuong Anh chose the simplest way: researching exactly what the school was looking for and honestly telling her own story.

While struggling with her essay about the journey of finding herself, Phuong Anh suddenly looked at her shoe cabinet and realized there were dusty old pairs, and pairs she once insisted on buying but never wore. Ultimately, the student chose the simplest pair, not fashionable but durable for long-term use.

“The journey of choosing shoes is like the journey of finding my ego. There were times I was busy following the crowd, trying to force myself into others' directions while forgetting that only when I am myself do I shine brightest,” Phuong Anh shared. Thus, the student chose to write about difference, strong personality, and the desire to live true to herself, regardless of her starting point.

That sincerity convinced the admissions panel, making her the sole scholarship winner that year.

“That was the happiest day of my life,” Phuong Anh recalled.

More than 20 years ago, shortly after she was born, Anh was left at the gate of SOS Children’s Village Hai Phong with her umbilical cord still attached. She was taken in and raised by Do Thi Thang, who adopted her and gave her the name Do Thi Phuong Anh.

Growing up at SOS Children's Village Hai Phong, Phuong Anh said the thing she learned most was gratitude. “I am lucky to have a mother who always accompanies and loves me. That makes me no longer dwell on the past, nor feel so miserable. I only feel grateful for growing up and studying at the village,” Phuong Anh shared.

Besides Mother Thang, Phuong Anh is also grateful to many others, from people in the village to friends, teachers, and benefactors. “Every time I am helped is a time I learn how to be grateful and appreciate what I have,” the student said.

Receiving the scholarship and entering an international university environment, Anh brought confidence with herself, though initially there was some worry. 

“I was not self-deprecating but feared the sympathetic or pitiful reactions of others. Luckily, when friends knew the story, they respected me greatly. They also did not criticize or pressure each other about origins or economic conditions,” Anh said.

But the early stage of university was still the most difficult time for Anh because the studying was entirely in English, and everyone's way of communicating was very different. However, one thing the student felt suited her personality was that this university upholds logical thinking and respects individual perspectives.

“Students do not just research to reach conclusions but must also clearly show their arguments and personal views, even if they contradict the majority,” Phuong Anh said.

The environment that respects differences and upholds each person's unique story also helped Phuong Anh maximize her abilities. Thanks to that, the student completed the program and graduated with Excellent honors in December 2025.

However, what makes Phuong Anh most proud is her steadfastness with set goals and "always being herself." Nevertheless, the student also has many regrets because, up to now, she has not done much for Mother Thang and the younger children, like the promise to study well and then return to contribute to the village.

Phuong Anh hopes in the near future to develop herself in the field of education and social organizations. “I hope I can create positive impacts and open more 'doors' for young people with special circumstances like mine,” Phuong Anh said.

Thuy Nga