Le Hieu Binh (1st left) and his guests (photo: Le Hieu Binh)

Le Hieu Binh in Binh Thuy ward, Can Tho City opened the Aidan-ada craft shop in July, 2023 to raise fund to help HIV carriers. Initially he sold online handicraft bracelets, flowers, aromatic candles, and essential oils. Later he opened a shop in Cach Mang Thang Tam street and one in Tran Bach Dang street.

“At first, my goal was to connect with HIV carriers and sell their products in the shop, but the model wasn’t effective. So, I shifted to organizing workshops where people can create their own crafts. We now hold sessions for making scented candles, paintings, and various handicrafts. One shop's profit is allocated for charitable activities, while the other shop’s profit covers staff salaries,” Binh said.

The shops have become popular with young customers who either purchase handcrafted items or participate in workshops to make personalized creations. Binh is passionate about guiding participants in crafting items like scented candles, pottery, shell art, keychains, bracelets, and necklaces. Workshop tickets cost about 100,000 VND (approximately 4 USD) per person.

“I make some bracelets. It’s a fascinating experience. As a student, I have to study every day. Coming here, I feel relaxed and warm. With Binh's instruction, I find it easy to make things,” a guest said.

“I know this shop on Tiktok. I call some friends to come here with me. We also want to contribute to its charitable fund.”

Binh has attended many craft classes to get experience to run his own shops. He said: “I learn by myself or consult other workshops. Out key activities are painting and making scented candles and flowers. Many customers return to join other workshops.”

Binh collaborates with a social enterprise specializing in HIV counseling. To better understand the disease and the experiences of those affected, he attended specialized training courses on HIV-related issues. Through his work, Binh has observed that many people living with HIV remain hesitant to integrate into the community or openly share their circumstances.

Interacting with HIV carriers brings Binh a deep sense of fulfillment. He feels honored to be regarded as a source of emotional support—a friend, a trusted advisor, and even a close brother. The more he works, the more he loves his job. Binh shares that the greatest joy is helping many HIV patients have faith in life.

“Binh is an energetic man. He always spreads his positive energy to others. He is always joyful, enthusiastic, and kindhearted.”

Initially, Binh employed individuals living with HIV to work in his shops, providing them with income to help cover their treatment costs. However, he encountered challenges as many people were not fully open-minded, making it difficult to manage these employees effectively. As a result, Binh shifted his approach and now offers financial support for their medical treatments and medications instead.

Binh's family and friends wholeheartedly support his charitable efforts. Nguyen Van Toan, who has joined Binh in numerous volunteer programs, said: "When Binh told people about his work, I said I supported him. HIV carriers are hesitant to use health insurance for treatment. I have supported them a lot. This is a very meaningful job."

Le Hieu Binh has quietly fostered compassion and understanding for people living with HIV, while also helping to raise public awareness about the disease. Binh's only wish is that Aidan-ada shop can be maintained for a long time to help more people in difficult circumstances.