In early January 2026, a small team from Pixel Dreams made the long journey from Toronto, through Hanoi, to Quảng Trị, Vietnam. The occasion: the groundbreaking ceremony for our second children’s library in the region — a tangible step forward in our purpose to Raise Intelligence + Awareness (I+A); one step further in our journey to establish 100 libraries around the world.

The Delegation

Representing Pixel Dreams were:

• Khalid Mokhtarzada, CEO & Founder
• Sarah Eskandarpour, VP of Client Success, & Partner
• Jenn Nguyen, Account Manager, SEA Liaison, CEO Special Missions
• Tracy Nguyen, Project Manager

Joining us were two honoured guests and close friends of PD:

• Sheila Knight, Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase (and close friend)
• Deacon Knight, friend and husband of Mrs Knight

The Journey

 
Our trip began in Hanoi on Sunday, January 4. After a short flight to Hue, the team travelled by van toward Quảng Trị — stopping along the way for local meals and much-needed breaks.

We arrived in Quảng Trị by late afternoon, with enough time to visit a few local landmarks. One notable stop was the historical Tà Cơn Airport Relic Museum — a solemn reminder of the region’s complex past and enduring resilience.
 

 
By early evening, we were welcomed with warmth and celebration by local teachers and officials at a party held at the Koi Farm inside Bảo An Viên. The night was filled with singing — and not just casual karaoke. Everyone had amazing voices, singing fast-paced local songs that, as we later learned from the principal (translated by Jenn), reflect a unique regional tradition. These quick tempos are a cultural trait of the area, known for producing strong, resilient people. Music here isn’t just entertainment — it’s woven into their identity.
 

 
Later that night, our CEO went on a reflective walk through the town, accompanied by Mr Nhan, Project Coordinator for the SEEDS Scholarship Program at Pacific Links. Their quiet stroll led to friendly encounters with locals, spontaneous photo ops, and a renewed sense of purpose for the work ahead.
 

The Ceremony

 
The next morning, we gathered at Trường THCS Thanh for the groundbreaking ceremony. Students took the stage wearing the traditional dress of their respective ethnicities while performing the contemporary pop song Di giua troi ruc ro. The song speaks to youthful aspiration, freedom, and self-discovery. Its lyrics encourage young people to overcome hardship, live fully within the moment, and carry a deep love for their homeland.

As the ceremony continued, students from different grades performed dances and songs drawn from local stories and traditions. Teachers followed with a performance that grounded the celebration in care, pride, and continuity.

One of the most affecting moments came when students, many encountering foreigners in person for the first time, were invited to ask questions. With translation support from teachers, Jenn, and Tracy, their curiosity and wonder were heartfelt and deeply moving.

Several speeches followed, including remarks from Mr Tung Hoan, Director of the SEEDS Scholarship Program, and from our CEO, Khalid. His message, translated by Jenn, resonated deeply. The room was filled with quiet emotion. Though everyone was holding it in, the energy was unmistakably heartfelt.

The ceremony closed with a group dance led by Mr Hoan, who invited students, teachers, organizers, and guests to join in. What followed was a joyful, unforgettable moment of unity and shared celebration. A short tea and fruit reception gave space for conversations with local educators and provincial leaders.
 

Looking Ahead

 
By early afternoon, we were back on the road, heading to Hội An to reconnect with the rest of the PD team and our families. Along the way, we stopped at the breathtaking Lăng Cô Bay, taking in the view and reflecting on everything the day had meant.
 

This new library — the second of its kind initiated by PD — is more than a building. It’s a commitment. A promise that knowledge and imagination will have a place to grow, even in the most remote corners of the world.

As we break ground, we also plant seeds — not just of literacy, but of hope, curiosity, and future potential.

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