Vietnam
In Vietnam, the challenge often begins before survivors are able to seek help.
Read the full story below
The Issue
In Vietnam, violence and abuse often remain hidden within families and communities. Survivors can experience harm for years without being identified, leaving them isolated and without access to the support they need to feel safe or begin healing.
The impact goes beyond immediate harm. Survivors often carry deep trauma, including shame, fear, and a loss of self-worth, which can affect their relationships, education, and sense of future.
One young girl’s experience reflects this reality. After years of abuse in her home, she felt unsafe, disconnected, and believed she was undeserving of care.
What Hagar did
Over a period of two years, one young girl experienced severe harm from her stepfather, while her mother was unaware. The trauma deeply affected her sense of safety, self worth, and trust within her family. She grew up carrying guilt and shame, believing she was “damaged” and undeserving of care. This also created distance between her and her mother, leaving her feeling isolated and lost.
When she was connected to Hagar Vietnam, the first priority was safety and stability. She received medical care from specialists in Hanoi and was placed in safe accommodation during her treatment. At the same time, Hagar supported both her and her mother through legal procedures, connecting them with lawyers and helping her understand and take part in the process to protect her rights.
Alongside ongoing education support, she began intensive psychological counselling. Over time, she was able to challenge negative beliefs about herself, establish healthy boundaries, and understand that what happened did not define her value. Over more than four years, she gradually rebuilt her confidence and formed positive relationships at school.
A significant moment in her journey was reconnecting with her mother. She came to recognise her mother’s care, sacrifices, and support, rebuilding a relationship that had once felt broken.
In her studies, she worked hard and became a top student for three consecutive years. She was accepted into medical college but chose a more suitable path for her family’s financial situation, enrolling in professional training at KOTO. There, she is developing practical skills and continuing her education.
She has now completed her first semester of the two year programme and is working toward a bigger goal, studying overseas to further her skills in hospitality and F&B. She has shared this commitment in a handwritten letter and remains determined to pursue her future.
Why it matters
