Artificial flowers made by childen with autism at SEED Career Education and Training Center (Photo: VOV)

Dang Mai Lam, born in 2001 in Hanoi, struggled with a severe behavior disorder. After two years studying at SEED, her health condition is improving. Lam is working as an assistant for teachers at the Center with a monthly salary of 3 million VND (130 USD). Although Lam finds it difficult to talk about her feelings, she is happy to work to show her gratitude for her parents and teachers.

“I try to make beautiful artificial flowers such as daisies and roses. I give my salary to my parents. My parents are very happy and that makes me want to work more,” Lam said.

Nguyen Thi En, the mother of Nguyen Duc Phu who is studying at the Center, says: “Phu has earned a salary for three months. In the first month he worked hard and received 2 million VND (90 USD). He was happy and I was even happier than him.”

SEED has different classes on making paper flowers, silk flowers, labeling products, baking, and computer tech. Sixty autistic students study and earn salaries which make their life more positive.  The oldest student at the Center is 38 years old.

Director Dao Thu Thuy said she hopes that when the students finish vocational training, they will become employees here and enjoy equal benefits. The Center will connect with businesses to generate more jobs for people with autism.

 “I want to replicate the model in other cities and provinces where there is a need and where centers for children with autism want to employ autistic adults. The model needs the involvement of public businesses to improve its performance. We welcome organizations to join us to sow the seeds of love. I believe that love and sharing will nurture good trees in the future,” Thuy said.

Every dream that is nurtured will bear fruit. That is what teachers at SEED believe as they help autistic students to confidently integrate into the community and reduce the burden on their families and society.