It's the turn of our Director in Vietnam to take part in this month's portrait! Thanks to Julia for answering our questions.
What can you tell us about your career, Julia?
I have a degree in Law and Human Rights. I've been working in the international solidarity sector for over 10 years now, and have had the chance to collaborate with associations and NGOs in France, Algeria, Cambodia and now Vietnam. These experiences have enabled me to contribute to projects focusing on child protection and fundamental rights.
How did you discover Planète Enfants & Développement?
It was in Cambodia. The association's actions were highly visible and I was immediately attracted by the team's commitment and the quality of the projects. I found that the approach corresponded perfectly to my values and my vision of humanitarian action.
What are your current missions in Vietnam?
I coordinate Planète Enfants & Développement's projects in Ho Chi Minh City. We have two main projects: an early childhood development project and a child protection project. The first involves helping some of the most vulnerable parents to provide the best for their toddlers, as well as improving access to quality educational services. In the second, we are working to strengthen local mechanisms for supporting and caring for child victims of exploitation.
What's your day-to-day role in all this?
I manage my team here in Vietnam, ensure that projects run smoothly, represent Planète Enfants & Développement and maintain links with local authorities, donors and partners. It's essential for me to spend time in the field. So, if you add in all the administrative work and coordination with Paris, the weeks are pretty full!
Why is terrain so important?
Our day-to-day commitment in the field is vital to getting things done and measuring the quality of the work we do. And that's where we really see the impact of our work. Listening to the often very difficult lives of children and families is always a powerful experience.
