IVD Human Library - Volunteers in Viet Nam shares stories of volunteerism and inclusion

Filled with scents of coffee and tea, the readers sat in circle, gazing at the “living books” waiting for stories to unravel. The “books” greeted the readers, took a deep breath and began to tell their stories.

Nine human books - a transwoman, a queer, a person with a disability, a child of a prisoner, a person overcoming depression, and volunteers - unraveled their stories. Participants – as young as 10-years-old, to senior officers from the Government of Viet Nam and volunteer organizations -listened to the stories through the voices and words of “living books” about their personal experiences on volunteerism and their role to promote an inclusive, and equal community.

This was the setting of the IVD Human Library event in Viet Nam to celebrate International Volunteer Day 2019, resonating this year’s theme, “Volunteer for an Inclusive Future”.

“The Human Library was a good and meaningful activity for everyone: listeners (readers) and storytellers (books). It helped me tell my story to people I don't know and allowed me to visualize how people will react to my story (if I publish a book),” shared Nguyen Bang Giang, who shared his story about being an LGBTI+ and a child of a prisoner.

The books, from a wide range of backgrounds and identities; were all proud of their volunteer work and the difference they are making.

“It is evident that everyone, however poor or vulnerable they are, can do volunteer work and make contributions to create a better society. I hope the youth, especially those with disabilities, are encouraged to study hard and apply to contribute to the work carried out by the UN. As my story proves ‘Nothing is impossible,’” said Dao Thu Huong, a UN Volunteer from Viet Nam, who was recruited through Talent Programme for Young Professionals with Disabilities by UNV and UNDP.

The stories highlighted how volunteerism contributes to creating a positive change for an inclusive society and can help break stereotypes on gender, people with disabilities and mental health.

“Today, we had a diverse range of stories. Some books made me cry and others smile. Celebrating IVD, I hope you all find a chance to volunteer throughout your life for an inclusive community, free from discrimination,” said Yoomi Jun, Partnerships Development Officer, UN Volunteers Viet Nam concluding the event.

“UN Volunteers widen the space for inclusive engagement by reaching out to those who are left behind. We have witnessed time and time again how UN Volunteers make an impact on equality in the communities they serve, globally” said Sitara Syed, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Viet Nam delivering the opening remarks at the event.

Prior to the event, a storytelling workshop was also organized to train the “books” and wider participants from youth networks and UN Volunteers. The Human Library held at the National Economics University at the center of Hanoi was organized by UNV in Viet Nam in collaboration with 2030 Youth Force Vietnam and ENACTUS with the support of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union of National Economics University and UN Women.

Click here for photos of the IVD Human Library Event in Viet Nam