Biography

Thi Van Nguyen was born with a severe movement disability. Every day, she completes her tasks and activities in a wheelchair. Despite this obstacle, she takes on every project with incredible determination and drive. Her motivation began when she was very young. In primary school, she took the initiative to become well-educated. She did not want to be excluded in any way, so she also participated in many extracurricular activities throughout her schooling years. Thi Van recalls struggling with discrimination, but over time, she has developed an incredible sense of self and confidence. She remarks boldly that “if people can’t help make my life better, I won’t give them any chance to make it worse.” Later she co-founded the Will to Live Center with her brother Cong-Hung who also has a movement disability. Sadly, her brother has since passed away, but she continues their mission to empower individuals with disabilities and give them opportunities to lead and live successful, productive lives for themselves and their families.

Since 2003, The Will to Live Center has been providing quality computer technology and vocational training services to youth with disabilities. Their programs are inclusive and respond to the changing opportunities in the community and world at large. They have trained over 700 people – 500 individuals with disabilities, and 200 orphans and vulnerable people. The Will to Live Center is proud that their graduates have about an 80% employment rate following participation in their training programs.