Australian-Vietnamese teen turns passion into action for kids in need

These included meal preparation for the homeless, assisting at women's and teens' shelters, visiting nursing homes, and participating in environmental conservation projects. These early experiences shaped his understanding of social responsibility and community needs.

While Australia benefits from a comprehensive social support system, Daniel recognized that rural areas in Vietnam face daily challenges such as limited access to clean water and educational resources. His trip to the Cu M'gar District in Dak Lak Province, a region struggling with high poverty rates, left a lasting impression. The stark contrast between life in rural Vietnam and his life in Sydney, Australia, motivated him to take action. "I was struck by how positive and resilient the children were, despite their hardships," Daniel recalled. " I really wanted to do something to help."

Green Kites International Association

In 2023, Daniel founded Green Kites International Association, named for resilience and hope. The association's mission is to provide sustainable support for disadvantaged children in Vietnam by building international connections and mobilizing greater funding, rather than simply providing charitable donations.

Recognizing the value of collaboration, Daniel used his networks and social media to build a diverse team spanning Australia, the U.S., Canada, Singapore, and Vietnam. "None of this would be possible without the dedication of everyone involved," Daniel said. "The collaboration of team members, both inside and outside of Vietnam, draws in much more funding and magnifies our impact."

The team secured funding through international networks and led fundraising campaigns, engaging Vietnamese expatriates and corporate sponsors. Their approach was hands-on, overseeing fundraising, logistics, and on-the-ground activities to ensure a lasting impact.

Daniel Cox and Green Kites International Association sponsored the construction of recreational space Vuon Co Tich (Fairy Tale Garden) and provided toys and learning aids to Hoa Sen Kindergarten. Photo courtesy of Daniel Cox

Tangible impact on the ground

In 2024, Green Kites raised over $15,000 and supported several initiatives, including:

- Clean water access: Funded the installation of a water filtration system at Ama Trang Long School in Cu M'gar. The project has had a profound impact, benefiting over 300 students and is now independently managed by the school, ensuring its sustainability.

- Drowning prevention: Supported a swimming and water safety program for children in high-risk communities.

- Education and recreation: Donated over 300 English and French books to a self- initiated community library, created a recreational space at Hoa Sen Kindergarten, and provided toys and scholarships to students in need.

- Diaper donations: Secured 56 boxes of diapers from Kimberly-Clark Vietnam, in collaboration with the Dak Lak Metta Foundation, for families in hospitals and care centers for children with disabilities.

- Donations to an orphanage: Contributed books, toys and teaching equipment to an orphanage in Ho Chi Minh City.

Daniel delivered donated supplies to Ama Trang Long School in Cu M'gar. Photo courtesy of Daniel Cox

Overcoming challenges

Running an international nonprofit organization as a teenager has not been without its challenges. Daniel faced skepticism from potential partners and had to navigate Vietnam's complex regulatory environment.

"I quickly learned that credibility isn't given—it's earned," Daniel said. "At first, some organizations didn't take us seriously, but by being persistent and showing that we were committed to our causes, we built trust."

Arnaud Bourrut Lacouture, co-founder of LPA Law Singapore, was initially hesitant when Daniel approached him for funding. "His request was one of many we received," he admitted. "However, Daniel persisted, and when I met him in person, it was clear that he had determination and passion beyond his years. When he told me he would liaise with the Dak Lak Metta Foundation and travel to Dak Lak to personally deliver the water filtration system, I was convinced. He didn't just talk about change—he delivered it."

Managing logistics in rural areas also posed difficulties due to infrastructure limitations, language barriers, cultural differences, and coordinating with multiple partners across time zones added further layers of complexity. Yet, Daniel expressed, "Through these experiences, I gained a deep appreciation for the resilience and optimism of the Vietnamese people, who persist despite adversity."

Future plans

With a keen interest in science and sustainability, Daniel plans to lead two more projects aimed at improving rural conditions. The first will focus on improving water accessibility through rainwater harvesting, community water storage, and improved pumping systems. "Despite abundant rainfall during the monsoon season, many rural communities still lack reliable access to clean water," Daniel explained. The second project will provide off-grid electricity solutions using renewable energy like wind, solar, and mini-hydro.

Additionally, Daniel will introduce the "Green Kites" model to primary schools, integrating STEM education to inspire children about renewable energy. "This program integrates wind, solar, and hydropower to teach children about sustainable energy," he said. "We hope to ignite a passion for science and environmental responsibility in the next generation."

Beyond these initiatives, Daniel and his team will also support healthcare projects, such as dental health education in primary schools, providing dental hygiene kits sponsored by Henry Schein, and collaborating with medical professionals to offer essential care in underdeveloped areas.

Daniel's work with Green Kites highlights the power of youth-driven philanthropy. Through his leadership and dedication, he demonstrates that young people can make meaningful contributions to global challenges. His efforts inspire others to take action, proving that making a meaningful impact is not limited by age.