In the mist-covered village of Arơh, Tay Giang commune, Da Nang, Bríu Pố is affectionately known as the “four-skilled elder”  -  a man who excels in learning, economic development, cultural preservation, and community mobilization. For decades, he has been a guiding light for the Co Tu community.

Born in 1949 in the remote mountains of Tay Giang, Bríu Pố grew up in villages blanketed year-round in clouds. To him, education was not just a personal pursuit but a tool to help others. With perseverance, he became the first Co Tu person to earn a bachelor’s degree.

“If I can learn to read, I can help more people,” he recalled.

After graduating from Thai Nguyen University of Education in 1977, he returned to his hometown and began a career dedicated to education and cultural work. He served in roles ranging from a district education officer and school principal to a local culture officer  -  always committed and close to the grassroots.

In 1989, Bríu Pố was elected as the Party Secretary and Chairman of the People’s Committee of Lăng commune. During those years, he went door to door urging villagers to abandon outdated customs, adopt new farming methods, and escape poverty.

Bringing a forest remedy home

In 2006, after retiring, Bríu Pố ventured into the forest and noticed wild ba kich vines growing thick beneath the canopy. Locals often harvested the medicinal roots to trade for rice. He wondered: “If this plant thrives in the forest, why not on our farm?”

He brought back 100 vines and began experimenting. He prepared the soil, marked root and tip ends, and carefully propagated the cuttings. At first, many villagers mocked him, insisting ba kich was a “gift of the heavens” that could only grow deep in the jungle.

But the plants flourished.

Soon, they blanketed the hillside. “That’s when I knew our people had a new path out of poverty,” he said.

From a few experimental beds, he expanded to over one hectare, growing thousands of vines. At its peak, ba kich sold for up to USD 20 per kilogram, earning his family more than USD 4,000 annually.

Bríu Pố didn’t keep the knowledge to himself.

He encouraged neighbors to grow it too. During village meetings, he shared tips on selecting varieties, preparing the land, and proper care.

As the model proved successful, local authorities provided capital, seedlings, and technical support. From Arơh, the ba kich plant spread throughout Tây Giang, becoming a key crop for poverty reduction.

Thanks to his pioneering work and commitment to preserving native species, villagers lovingly nicknamed him the “king of ba kich.”

Guardian of Co Tu culture

Beyond farming, Bríu Pố is a living encyclopedia of Co Tu culture.

He writes stories, composes poems, tells captivating tales, plays the flute beautifully, and is a master woodcarver.

As a child, he followed his father and grandfather to help build traditional Gươl houses. He learned each chisel stroke, each motif on ceremonial poles, wooden statues, and longhouses. Over the years, he became deeply knowledgeable in traditional carving techniques.

Now 76, he has created hundreds of sculptures, reliefs, ceremonial poles, and totemic trees. He has contributed to restoring many traditional Gươl and longhouses across Tây Giang. In 2019, he won first prize at the Co Tu Wood Sculpture Festival in Da Nang with his piece “Mother Forest” and was awarded the title of Distinguished Artisan.

Bríu Pố also dedicates himself to mentoring the next generation.

Today, more than 10 young people in Arơh, including his grandson, have taken up woodcarving. “Only by passing on our craft can our culture endure,” he said.

To the people of Tay Giang, Bríu Pố is a quiet yet tireless cultural guardian  -  a symbol of resilience and devotion who preserves the soul of the mountains for generations to come.

Speaking to reporters, Arat Blui, Vice Secretary and Chairman of Tay Giang commune, said Bríu Pố has long served as a vital bridge between the government and the people.

“With great respect and influence, he has tirelessly encouraged the community to abandon harmful customs, protect forests, safeguard villages, and embrace modern ways without losing their identity,” Blui said.

“In the eyes of Tay Giang’s people, Bríu Pố is more than just a respected elder. He’s a teacher for the entire community  -  showing people how to escape poverty and instilling pride in our youth about their culture and homeland.”

Ha Nam