Anupama Rani

Akhil Salim

I'm thrilled to apply for the VietJet Airways photography competition, and I'm excited to share my passion for photography with you. As a budding travel photographer, I've always been driven to capture the beauty of the world through my lens and share its stories with others. My journey in photography began in college, where I won consecutive first prizes in photography competitions, fueling my desire to excel in this field. My achievements didn't stop there; I was honored to have my work recognized in prestigious contests, including: - Sony BBC Earth's top 15 photos, 2020 - UNICEF and Kerala Legislative Assembly's competition, where I emerged as the top photographer from Kollam district and became a youth climate representative for the district in 2022 My work has also been featured on the Canon Asia official website, showcasing my expertise and dedication to photography. Through my lens, I aim to showcase the hidden gems of my country and the world, inspiring others to explore and appreciate its beauty. Vietnam, with its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, is a destination that has long fascinated me. I'm eager to immerse myself in its vibrant streets, capture the essence of its people, and share its stories with the world. Winning this competition would be a dream come true, allowing me to push my creative boundaries and produce captivating images that inspire others. I'm confident that this journey would not only enhance my skills but also provide a platform to share Vietnam's beauty and magic with a wider audience. Looking forward to the opportunity to explore Vietnam and capture its essence through my lens.

Rahul Goel

Love Connection – Dream Take Flight: A Journey of Discovery The Seeds of a Dream Vietnam has always lingered in my imagination, a tapestry woven with vibrant colors, rich traditions, and tantalizing flavors. Though I have never set foot in this enchanting country, its allure has grown over the years through stories and dreams. My first encounter with Vietnamese cuisine happened on a rainy afternoon in Mumbai when I stumbled into a small Vietnamese eatery. As I took my first sip of pho, the warm broth enveloped me like a comforting hug. The fragrant aroma of star anise and fresh herbs ignited a passion within me. Each spoonful felt like a connection to a culture I yearned to explore. A Love Affair with Vietnamese Cuisine Vietnamese cuisine, with its perfect harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, reflects the country’s vibrant culture. I learned about the significance of fresh herbs and the emphasis on communal meals. I devoured articles and watched documentaries about the regional diversity of Vietnamese food, from the delicate flavors of northern dishes like bún chả to the bold, spicy offerings of the central region. As I imagined traveling through Vietnam, I envisioned wandering through bustling markets, sampling street food, and sitting with families in their homes, learning the secrets of their beloved recipes. I longed to experience the art of making bánh mì, the crispy baguette filled with savory meats and pickled vegetables, and to try cà phê sữa đá, the iconic Vietnamese iced coffee. The Richness of Vietnamese Culture Beyond food, my fascination with Vietnam extends to its rich cultural heritage. A country with thousands of years of history, Vietnam has weathered dynasties and wars, yet its spirit remains unbroken. The resilience of the Vietnamese people inspires me; they celebrate their heritage while embracing the modern world. I am particularly drawn to the concept of family in Vietnam. The importance of family ties, respect for elders, and communal living resonate deeply with my own values. I envision sharing meals with Vietnamese families, understanding the significance of food in fostering connections. A New Chapter Waiting to Be Written The "Love Connection – Dream Take Flight" program presents a unique opportunity to turn my dreams into reality. If chosen to participate, I would document my journey to showcase the beauty of Vietnamese culture and cuisine. I want to share the stories of the people I meet and create content that highlights the cultural connections between India and Vietnam. I may not have experienced Vietnam firsthand, but the connection I feel runs deep. This program is not just an opportunity; it is the key to unlocking a world I have longed to discover. I am ready to embark on this adventure, to learn, and to celebrate the beauty of Vietnam and its people.

Kabir Jaiswal

Kabir was born into a struggling family in a small town, where he grew up as the eldest of three siblings. Despite their financial hardships, Kabir displayed a deep love for learning from a young age. His father worked long hours at a factory, and his mother contributed by stitching clothes at home. Even with both parents working, the family could barely afford necessities, let alone Kabir’s education. But Kabir was determined to succeed. He studied late into the night by candlelight, skipped meals to save money, and took on odd jobs to contribute to his family’s income. As he entered high school, Kabir's challenges intensified. His father’s health declined, increasing the family’s expenses, and Kabir had to work even harder to support them while studying. Often exhausted and malnourished, he continued to excel in school, motivated by a vision of a life beyond poverty. Teachers noticed his dedication and encouraged him to apply for scholarships, which helped him secure a place in college. There, Kabir faced mounting tuition fees, forcing him to take up three part-time jobs while balancing his studies. The physical and emotional toll was heavy, but he endured, constantly driven by the desire to help his family and uplift others. Over time, his commitment attracted more students, some walking miles to attend his classes. Kabir didn’t just teach subjects; he shared his story, instilling values of resilience and perseverance. Kabir’s work gradually expanded as he partnered with NGOs and other organizations, gaining additional resources to improve his school’s infrastructure and curriculum. He hired teachers, offered scholarships, and introduced programs that encouraged creativity and critical thinking. Through his journey from hardship to impact, Kabir became a beacon of hope in his community. His story inspired others to value education and to dream of a brighter future. For Kabir, the greatest reward was not in recognition, but in seeing his students, who once doubted they could pursue an education, grow into confident individuals with the power to change their own lives. Kabir’s school, born out of struggle and compassion, became a cornerstone for his town, showing that with determination and empathy, even the most challengi