at the Harvard University International Bridge Builders Conference (April 5th-10th)
“It really made me reflect deeper and understand better about myself and BsE.,” said Veronique Kittirath, main founder and Managing Director of Bokeo Social Enterprise (BsE), upon returning from her trip to Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA for the Harvard University International Bridge Builders Conference. This prestigious annual event featured ten unique individuals, called the Bridge Builders, who are leaders in international development, grassroots movements, and social justice campaigns in their communities. Veronique and BsE were nominated and selected to participate in the conference where she shared stories and lessons of her endeavors, exchanged with the Harvard students and faculty as well as her fellow Bridge Builders, and was coached by professors and trainers from Harvard Kennedy School of Government on topics such as fundraising, branding for profit, gender and social entrepreneurship, etc.
This intense week full of workshops, panel and field activities allowed the Bridge Builders to closely interact and learn from each other, for their background and experience range from community organization for disabled to NGO helping women in distress, former child soldiers etc. They brought to Harvard different inspiration and shared passion for social changes. These Bridge Builders also interacted with students and faculty from the Kennedy School at activities and workshops. In addition to the intensive learning and networking, Veronique also found it an excellent opportunity to introduce and bring the lesser-known country of Laos to an international audience. Samples of some BsE products were distributed at the conference where they were instantly liked!!!
The abrupt and tragic end of Andy’s young life in a recent motorbike accident in Houay Xay, Bokeo, Laos, shocked the community and caused great grief. During his time here as a volunteer English teacher, Andy was also actively involved in many other initiatives such as Khmu language learning and became a dynamic addition to BsE, combining his interest in traditional medicine with community development. Andy was loved by the people in Houay Xay and was fondly remembered as the young and fun-loving American who spoke fluent Lao and had a genuine interest and curiosity about the culture and people of this country. It was great loss and pain for us all who know Andy, and BsE offers sincere condolence to Andy’s family who always supported Andy’s involvement with us. We will always be grateful for what Andy had brought and shared with us, and the many good memories of him will live on.
