Paying It Forward, One Generation at a Time
The impact of PNV’s IT Training Program goes far beyond graduation. What makes the program truly meaningful is seeing those who once received an opportunity choose to return – becoming the people who connect, support, and create new opportunities for the next generation. For Mạnh, a PNV alumnus from the 2018-2021 cohort and President of the PNV Alumni Association (PNVAA) for the 2022-2026 term, that journey has come full circle. More than a graduate of the program, he is now helping strengthen the alumni community and carrying forward the values that generations of PNV alumni have built together.
Passing forward the values that shaped us
The three years I spent at PNV gave me much more than technical knowledge and professional skills. It helped me build confidence, develop a strong sense of responsibility, and shape the values that continue to guide me today. That is one of the reasons why I chose to stay connected with PNV and take on the role of President of the PNV Alumni Association.
Mạnh – PNV21 Alumni
As a student, Mạnh witnessed many alumni return to PNV – not only to share their experiences, but to encourage, mentor, and support the next generations. Having once received that same guidance himself, he knew he wanted to continue the cycle by becoming part of it.
To Mạnh, there has always been a special bond among PNV alumni. Although each person comes from a different background and follows a different path, they all share one thing in common: they were once supported, trusted, and given opportunities by PNV during one of the most uncertain periods of their lives. That shared gratitude and empathy have nurtured a spirit of “Paying it forward” – a value that continues to unite the PNV alumni community today.
Connected by a spirit of giving
Graduating from PNV also marks the beginning of a new chapter – one where every student learns to stand on their own. While PNV and the dedicated staff are there throughout their learning journey, life after graduation often brings new questions about careers and the future. Following in the footsteps of previous PNVAA Presidents, Mạnh hopes to foster a community where those with more experience can guide, mentor, and encourage those taking their first steps.
This spirit also comes to life through the many initiatives organised by the PNV Alumni Association each year. From supporting student selection, providing academic and career guidance, and offering skill development opportunities to organising Tet gift events for current students and alumni networking activities, every initiative shares the same purpose: building a community where generations of PNV students and alumni can support one another and grow together.
“The true value of PNVAA isn’t measured by the number of programs or events we’ve organised. It’s reflected in how we inspire people to support one another and create opportunities for others. That, to me, is the greatest strength of the PNV alumni community.” – Mạnh shared.
Growing a stronger Alumni Community
Looking ahead, Mạnh and the PNVAA leadership team hope to further expand and strengthen the PNV alumni network by connecting PNV graduates across industries and countries. Beyond bringing alumni together, PNVAA aims to become a trusted professional network that empowers both students and alumni through mentoring, knowledge sharing, career guidance, and career opportunities.
Just as building a strong alumni community takes time, every student’s personal journey comes with its own challenges. Yet, Mạnh believes that what matters most is maintaining a willingness to learn, staying committed to one’s goals, and embracing new opportunities with an open mind.
To all current PNV students, Mạnh leaves this message:
Don’t worry if you can’t clearly see the road ahead just yet. Everyone goes through moments of uncertainty and challenge. Most importantly, remember that you are never alone on this journey. Your fellow alumni and the entire PNV community will always be here to support, encourage, and walk alongside you as you grow both personally and professionally.
And Mạnh’s story is just one of many inspiring journeys like this at PNV.
For more than 15 years, Passerelles Numériques Vietnam has supported hundreds of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing education and personal growth. Through each generation and every achievement – big or small – one truth becomes clear: when given an opportunity and the courage to keep going, students gradually outgrow their own limits, becoming more confident and ready to embrace experiences they once thought were beyond reach.