We are a Non-Profit Social Enterprise Organization based in Hanoi, Vietnam.
VCV Vietnam is a community-based social enterprise dedicated to community development, practical English education, and intercultural exchange. We believe that language learning is not only about communication, but also about building confidence, expanding opportunities, and creating stronger human connections.
Our programs support Vietnamese learners of all ages, especially postpartum women, and underserved communities with limited access to practical English-learning environments. Through interactive classes, community activities, and cultural exchange programs, participants develop real-world communication skills, improve pronunciation, and gain the confidence to engage more actively in international environments.
Beyond language learning, we aim to create inclusive spaces where people feel encouraged to express themselves, share experiences, and connect across cultures without fear of judgment. By bringing together international volunteers and local communities, VCV promotes mutual learning, cultural understanding, and meaningful long-term relationships.
We also recognize that many students in Vietnam have limited opportunities to practice conversational English despite years of studying grammar in traditional classrooms. As a result, many graduates struggle to meet the communication demands of modern workplaces. Through practical learning experiences and direct interaction with international volunteers, VCV helps learners strengthen both their communication abilities and their access to educational and professional opportunities.
At VCV, we believe that education and intercultural understanding are essential to sustainable community development. Our mission is to create open and supportive learning environments where individuals from different backgrounds can learn, grow, and thrive together.
Our mission is to expand access to practical English learning and intercultural exchange opportunities, creating inclusive community spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can build confidence, develop communication skills, and connect more openly with the world
Meet the People Behind VCV
A small team, each holding a different piece of what makes VCV work — from the classroom to the community
Hay luyen
Hay Luyen holds a degree in Sociology and has many years of experience working with NGOs and community development projects in Vietnam. She is passionate about education, cultural exchange, and creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to connect and learn from one another. Her journey with VCV Vietnam was inspired by her own experience. After losing her job while raising two young children, she struggled with limited English skills and a lack of confidence in pursuing new career opportunities. A volunteer-led English program helped her rebuild both her language skills and self-confidence, inspiring her to create similar opportunities for others. As the founder of VCV Vietnam, Hay is committed to building a welcoming community where learners and volunteers can learn, connect, and grow through meaningful intercultural exchange. She enjoys meeting people from around the world, sharing Vietnamese culture, and creating spaces where people feel supported, valued, and empowered.
Susan Guggenheim
Susan first started supporting VCV in 2023, even before she set foot in Vietnam. Once she arrived, that support grew into something deeper — a real understanding of the VCV community, and a decision to stay involved in helping our projects grow long after her own volunteering ended. Susan's experience spans hospitality, technology, and community work alike. Her background in database management and customer success means she knows how to help organizations not just grow, but actually succeed. Community has always been part of how Susan works, not separate from it. She currently teaches English to refugees in Lancaster, Pennsylvania — work that echoes VCV's own mission in a different corner of the world. With a degree in Sociology alongside her technical certifications, Susan holds a simple belief at the center of everything she does: professional growth, community wellbeing, and personal empowerment aren't three separate goals — they build on each other.
Ngan Ng
Having worked and lived in multiple countries, Ngan is the co-founder of the Albrecht Fund, an independent initiative supporting Vietnamese young people in developing foreign language and working skills. Through free online charity classes, the Fund creates opportunities for young Vietnamese learners to strengthen their English and broaden their international perspectives. VCV supports the Fund by connecting international volunteers with its educational activities, creating meaningful opportunities for intercultural learning and community engagement.
Trang Mai
Trang Mai has spent many years working in volunteering and community development, supporting local communities in Hanoi and Ha Giang through education and community-based projects. In Thon Tha, Ha Giang, she works closely with local people to support English learning, cultural exchange and community development. Today, she is the owner of Up Hill House Coffee and leads programmes that welcome international volunteers and create opportunities for them to engage with the local community. Through her partnership with VCV, her programmes are introduced to international volunteers through VCV’s platform and network
Linh Nguyen
Linh Nguyen holds a degree in International Relations. She is passionate about traveling, volunteering, and connecting with people from around the world. She deeply values the meaningful connections and lasting friendships formed through cultural exchange and volunteer experiences. Linh plays an important role in welcoming and supporting volunteers within the VCV community. She helps coordinate volunteer activities and oversees daily life at our volunteer house, ensuring that volunteers feel comfortable, supported, and at home throughout their time with VCV Vietnam. Through her care and dedication, she helps create a warm and inclusive environment where meaningful intercultural connections can flourish.
Linh Le
Meet Ms. Linh, an experienced community financial assistance coordinator who is responsible for securing budgets for our projects. Her role involves ensuring that budgets are balanced across projects that offer affordable, subsidized, and free English classes, as well as charitable activities for the community. Her expertise is crucial in maintaining the financial stability of our community initiatives, enabling us to make a lasting impact.