With the passing of our first night in HCMC went most of our jetlag (hopefully), and everyone settled down to enjoy the last day they would remain comfortably sheltered in the heavenly AC of our hotel. Armed with drive, enthusiasm, and the encouraging support of newly forged friendships, the team set their minds to some cultural learning and intense planning.

In the flurry of marker, pen, and typing fingers that ensued, interrupted briefly by a culture game show, some rice hat prizes, a couple mad rushes to facebook, and the usual yummy food?I looked around and marveled at the energy and optimism. As we embarked on the first step of our quest to offer a helping hand to those trapped in the cycle of poverty, the problem we were tackling remained enormous in scale, our ideals and solutions so grand in scale. Would the difference we make, if any, be truly significant? Would it leave a lasting impact, resisting the abrasion of complicated, unforgiving society?

From what I see and feel, I give you a definite, defiant Yes. There is no doubt, and time will prove it.

— Kai Qiu