Seeking transformation through relationships sometimes means a years-long investment before you see the full return on the work, but it is always worth the wait. One such story is that of Yen, who lived in the SS3 orphanage since she was two years old with no knowledge of who her parents were or why they had left her behind. The GVI team and volunteers who visited the orphanage each summer were a significant part of her childhood: she often said that the GVI team had filled the empty spaces in her life, offering light and hope where once there had only been darkness. 

The GVI team brought Yen immense joy every year when they visited the orphanage and organized summer camps for the children. The face-painting sessions and the photo booth corner became her favorite moments, not just because they were fun, but because they allowed her to see herself differently – beautiful, full of potential, and capable of anything. In these moments, Yen felt truly alive.

During these summers with the GVI teams, a dream began to take root in her heart: Yen wanted to help other girls and women feel beautiful, just as the GVI team had done for her. She dreamed of becoming a spa therapist, where she could use her hands and heart to bring healing and confidence to others. Determined to make her dream a reality, Yen worked hard at school, knowing that education would be her ticket to a brighter future. She poured love into everything she did, drawing strength from the kindness and support she had received over the years, and she made time even while studying to help the house mothers at the orphanage: taking care of the younger children and learning how to nurture those in need.

After graduating, Yen moved out of SS3 with a bittersweet feeling. The orphanage had been her home, but now it was time to step into a new chapter of her life. She found a job at a local spa near SS3, where she could continue honing her skills. She remembered the encouragement from the GVI team every day as she grew in her career, and she often said that their love and care were what had given her the strength to pursue her dreams. The GVI team had done more than just visit the orphanage—they had believed in her when she was too young to believe in herself.

Yen was determined and her plans were clear. She would spend two years working at the local spa, mastering her craft before moving on to a bigger spa, where she could further develop her expertise. Her ultimate goal is to open her own spa within five years, a place where she can give back to her community and help other girls like her discover their beauty and worth. For now, she is reminded daily of how far she has come, and she remains grateful for the GVI team but for the way they went so far beyond not face painting or fun activities, and touched her heart and inspired her to dare to dream. Yen feels deeply thankful for the love, care, and unwavering belief that helped her fulfill her dream. She carries their lessons with her always, as she works towards her ultimate goal, knowing that one day she will help others the way they helped her.