A Beacon of Hope for Deaf Children and Youth in Laos
Heading north of Vientiane, our goal was simple: to find a school in need of support. After leaving the main road and traveling along red dirt tracks through isolated villages, chance led us to Hands of Hope for the Deaf, a place full of hope and commitment.
Founded in 2021 and officially recognized by the government in 2024, Hands of Hope is the first private school in Laos dedicated to deaf children. Since October 2024, it has welcomed 27 children—12 girls and 15 boys—most of whom come from distant provinces and have no family. The school becomes their home, their refuge, and their place of learning. The teaching team, composed of 8 educators—4 of whom are deaf themselves—supports their education, inclusion, and personal growth.
We were warmly welcomed by the principal, Hye Ja Lee, originally from Korea, who expressed great interest in our partnership project.
During our second visit, we met Sophaphone, the founder and director of the school. She introduced us to an ambitious new project: a vocational training center for deaf young adults, soon to be inaugurated. This center, the first of its kind in the country, already hosts 15 students training in various fields such as sewing, hairdressing, cooking, carpentry, and cleaning. The goal is to equip them with practical skills and establish partnerships with local businesses to promote their employment.
The center urgently needs equipment such as sewing machines, computers, furniture, tools, and professional supplies. Every contribution can make a real difference.
