Story of Change
“I believe that this is a big turning point. The training sessions on independent living and disability inclusion have helped me realize that supporting persons with disabilities goes beyond providing material support. It is also about creating conditions for them to live independently and integrate into the community.”
Mr. Nguyen Ai Hoi is dedicated to supporting persons with disabilities in his local community
On a peaceful afternoon like any other at the headquarters of the Dakrong District Organization of Persons with Disabilities, Agent Orange/Dioxin Victims & Social Protection in Quang Tri Province, Mr. Nguyen Ai Hoi was finishing his daily tasks. In the past, he always felt that something was missing. The Organization ‘s activities were limited to organizing charitable and humanitarian programs and did not truly address the real needs of persons with disabilities. Troubled by this but unable to find a solution, Mr. Hoi always wondered: “How can persons with disabilities truly integrate and live independent lives?”.
Mr. Hoi participates in an accessibility assessment of public facilities for persons with disabilities
It was not until he participated in the activities of the ACDC project that this 65-year-old cadre was ready to embrace and change, like seeds sown into his soul. He did not miss any training sessions, from independent living and disability inclusion to physical accessibility and all project meetings and workshops. In addition, he coordinated the implementation and provided direct legal counseling to persons with disabilities, monitored the accessibility of public works, and conducted gender-based violence prevention training courses. Mr. Hoi understood that the construction of public facilities, in addition to creating infrastructure, must also ensure accessibility and usability for persons with disabilities. Only then will these facilities truly contribute to opening the door for persons with disabilities to participate in social activities such as education, work, and recreation.
Trainees receive certificates presented by Mr. Hoi after completing the capacity-building training course
Driven by the desire to build timely and effective support measures, he took the initiative to seek sponsors to develop broommaking for persons with disabilities in the locality. Through training, guidance, and shared development, he and the Organization members gained the knowledge and skills to work with persons with disabilities, provide counseling, and guide them on relevant policies. Many Organization members were proposed to join the district’s Organization Executive Board to promote their capacity and represent the voices of persons with disabilities in forums.
Each person starts differently. Mr. Nguyen Dac Hoi, with his quiet passion, has gradually transformed from a routine Organization officer into a dedicated leader who understands the needs of persons with disabilities better.
