Peter’s story

Serving in Vietnam...

Peter spent 8 months as a volunteer with the Salesian Community of Dong Thuan in Vietnam, organised by Bosco Volunteer Action (BOVA). Dong Thuan is a boarding community that provides a safe environment for around 200 poor and disadvantaged boys and 25 girls aged generally from 14 to 19. The fees are at a “minimum level” and certain scholarships exist in order that some of the poorest children can attend (about 30 every year)…

Throughout the placement, Peter taught basic English to several groups of Dong Thuan students and also to local school students for an average of 1 hour per day. Classes were either 30 minutes or 1 hour, and the number of students varied from 1 to 30. Learning English is important for the students as they are likely to get jobs in factories where some of the machinery might have parts with English names.

Peter also helped some of the Salesians themselves to practice and develop their English. English is the second language for the Salesians around the world so it is essential for the Vietnamese Salesians to have good English.

Perhaps the most important commitment of the placement was Peter’s presence alongside the Salesians in their community activities. Whenever possible, Peter attended daily Mass, took part in chores and shared communal meals. Throughout his placement, Peter wanted to use his time to live in solidarity with the poor and be a useful team member. He hopes that the students saw him as a positive role model and will remember his companionship.

Peter feels that he has learned an enormous amount in Vietnam which he expects will help him as he moves on to University. He certainly faced many challenging new experiences throughout his placement but feels that he gained so much by spending time with the Vietnamese people and learning about their culture and history. These experiences will help shape the rest of his life.

Project Organiser: Bosco Volunteer Action (BOVA)