Young people read stories at the exhibition. Photo cpv.org.vn.

HÀ NỘI  For many abandoned children, the ultimate dream is to have a family of their own.

Some of these children had the chance to share their stories at an exhibition which kicked off on Monday in Hà Nội.

Themed ‘Longing for a Family’, the exhibition is carried out by the Vietnamese Women’s Museum and Vietnamese Women’s Union (VWU).

The exhibition covers children’s issues, which are a concern for the community as a whole. It is part of activities to mark the International Day of the Girl Child (October 11) and Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20). It also marks the Year of Safety for Children and Women, launched by the VWU.

The exhibition features 20 children of different ages from provinces such as Lào Cai, Lai Châu, Sơn La, Hưng Yên and Khánh Hòa. Some live in big cities, while others are from mountainous regions. The children were from a mixture of backgrounds, either living with relatives and grandparents or growing up in orphanages and child protection centres.

It took a long time to approach the children, as they were sensitive and vulnerable, according to Nguyễn Hải Vân, the museum’s director.

“Our officers talked to them, gained their confidence and encouraged them to talk about their lives and struggles. The hardships they have endured meant it was difficult for them to open up.”

The exhibition is divided into three parts – ‘Turbulent Life’, ‘When I Found a Smile’ and ‘My Dream’. It reflects the hardships of the children, their strong will and how the community engaged to help.

“Through the exhibition, we want to spread a message that we should protect and love children – giving them a bright future,” Vân said.

The exhibition delivers a message that we should protect and love children, giving them a bright future. VNS Photo Minh Thu

Giàng A Súa, 19, and his two younger brothers were abandoned at a young age. Ever since, they have dreamed of having a family. Súa was born in the northern province of Yên Bái. His father died when Súa was eight.

“My mother left the three of us at our grandparents’ house and married another man. We didn’t see her much after that,” Súa said.

He was sent to Hoa Sữa, a vocational training school for disadvantaged youth. Now he considers it home.

Súa’s case is one among many. He was abandoned but managed to find another home. He was trained to earn a living. Many other children dream of having a chance like Súa.