Lee Kum Kee supported Vietnamese ethnic minority students: Creating opportunities for a brighter future

DNHN - In 2024, Lee Kum Kee launched its “Hope as Chef” program in Vietnam for the first time, awarding five full scholarships to underprivileged ethnic minority students at Hoa Sua School of Economics and Tourism (Hanoi).

Planting seeds for the future 

On December 10, a scholarship ceremony was held at Hoa Sua School of Economics and Tourism in Hanoi, awarding scholarships to disadvantaged ethnic minority students. These scholarships not only provide access to quality education but also open doors to sustainable career opportunities, laying a foundation for a more stable future. 

These "seeds of hope" have been made possible by the support of various organizations, philanthropists, and dedicated businesses, including Lee Kum Kee and its "Hope as Chef" program. The global initiative, active for over two decades, offers financial assistance to aspiring chefs from disadvantaged backgrounds who dream of becoming professionals in the culinary world. 

The 2024 program marked its debut in Vietnam, providing five full scholarships—including tuition and boarding expenses—to underprivileged students at Hoa Sua School. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Chu Nhat Minh, Product Director of Lee Kum Kee, emphasized that this annual initiative demonstrates the brand’s commitment to supporting communities and helping young people build their futures. 

In addition to scholarships, Lee Kum Kee has consistently supplied Hoa Sua School with seasoning products and culinary ingredients worth hundreds of millions of VND. These contributions go beyond financial aid, enabling students to practice in a real-world environment using high-quality materials. 

Sustainable values rooted in business philosophy and social responsibility 

Founded in 1888 in Hong Kong by Lee Kum Sheung, the inventor of oyster sauce, Lee Kum Kee has grown into a global food brand leading the production and distribution of sauces and seasonings. Its product range includes oyster sauce, soy sauce, barbecue marinades, and various seasonings catering to diverse culinary traditions worldwide. 

Quality has always been the cornerstone of Lee Kum Kee's business philosophy. The brand is dedicated to using premium ingredients and traditional recipes to create flavorful, safe, and healthy products. Beyond product excellence, Lee Kum Kee promotes the values of family and togetherness through marketing campaigns that highlight the warmth of shared meals. 

Alongside its business success, Lee Kum Kee is known for its strong sense of social responsibility. The "Hope as Chef" program is a testament to this commitment, having provided career opportunities to over 1,000 young chefs across numerous countries. By contributing to community development in Vietnam, Lee Kum Kee reinforces its leadership not only in the food industry but also in fostering sustainable social progress. 

The scholarship ceremony at Hoa Sua School of Economics and Tourism exemplifies Lee Kum Kee’s dedication to fulfilling its corporate social responsibility while striving to build its presence and development in the Vietnamese market.