Since typhoon Yagi swept through northern Vietnam a month ago, he has made phone multiple calls to rally philanthropists and personally helped students continue their schooling. The Saigon Times had a conversation with Pham Phu Ngoc Trai, a philanthropist and chairman of Global Integration Business Consultants (GIBC). His philosophy of “Giving While Living” is worthwhile.
Can you explain your concept of responsibility—particularly social responsibility
– Pham Phu Ngoc Trai: In Vietnam, social responsibility has long been misunderstood. People donate but not always with a clear purpose. Charity isn’t just about giving—it’s about the intention and sincerity behind it that truly matter. In my view, giving goes beyond money or time; it has a deeper meaning. When I think about responsibility—social responsibility—it’s not just about handing someone a fish but teaching them how to fish. It’s about empowerment. I’ve visited many parts of Vietnam where people have very little, and where children dream of getting an education but can’t afford it because their families are struggling just to make ends meet. I understand that charity isn’t simply about helping them survive today, but about empowering them to build a more sustainable future.
But to truly empower people, don’t we first need trust and understanding?
– I’ve always believed in giving back. It’s not just to ease my conscience, but to uplift others. It has never been merely about charity or donation—it’s about investing in people, in their potential, helping them grow so that one day they can stand on their feet. Money alone is not enough. True charity must be rooted in understanding and empathy. I’ve been involved in many initiatives because I believe in their value for society. When I founded my first charitable organization over two decades ago, it was hard to imagine what it would become. But I knew from the start that it had to be more than just an organization. It needed to be a force for change and progress, something that would continue to give and lift people up. It’s always about more than just money—it’s about opportunity, hope, and the firm belief that a better future is possible.
Philanthropy and acts of kindness aren’t just about giving gifts or financial aid—they’re about presence and companionship. Do you agree?
– Philanthropy or acts of kindness aren’t just temporary gestures. They are long-term inner commitments. It’s about walking alongside those who are struggling, offering not just money or material support but real opportunities for them to move forward. It’s about guiding them, showing them that they can create their own future, rise above their current hardships, and change their own fate. I’ve initiated charitable funds like building schools and setting up clinics—not out of obligation, but out of necessity. Not just financially, but with the understanding that education, healthcare, and dignity are essential for improving lives. These are investments in the future of humanity. And more importantly, philanthropy helps create a more harmonious society and cultivates its most valuable resource—human capital. I remember visiting remote villages where residents had only their will to survive. There was one woman I never forget—her face bore the marks of years of hardship. She didn’t have much, just enough to feed her children. When we visited, she smiled—not because of the gifts we brought, but because of our presence. In that moment, I learned a valuable lesson: the true meaning isn’t in what’s given, but in simply being there. In philanthropy, presence matters. Being there, walking with them through their hardest times—those are the real gifts. Not money or donations, but your presence is the strength they need when they need it most. It’s about showing them they aren’t alone, that someone cares.
For many people, success in life means wealth, social status, and recognition. For you, does success lie in “Giving while living”?
– Our perspectives can change as we go through experiences in life. When I was young, I thought success was having wealth, status, and recognition. But now, after all this time, I realize that true success is what we’re willing to give. However, it’s not about how much we give, but how we give. The way we give determines the legacy we leave behind. It’s about creating a ripple effect that lasts long after we’re gone. I’ve been fortunate in life, given many opportunities, and I am deeply grateful for them. But gratitude alone isn’t enough. You can’t accumulate blessings like treasures—you must share them. True happiness comes from sharing those blessings, from making a difference in the lives of others with what you have. The real measure of success is not what we keep but what we give.
Reported by Nguyen-Tran
Changing lives
Pham Phu Ngoc Trai plays a pivotal role in supporting numerous social activities in Vietnam. His charitable efforts span various sectors, especially in education and healthcare. He has founded and supported initiatives that provide scholarships and financial aid to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, aiming to ensure they have access to quality education and brighter futures.
For over seven years, he has tirelessly helped many children attend school through the “Saigon Times Foundation – Pham Phu Thu Scholarship” program, which he co-founded with several business leaders. Since 2017, the program has thrived thanks to the enthusiastic collaboration of Pham Phu Ngoc Trai, many businesses, and other philanthropists.
Now, scholarships from the Synergy for School Support After Typhoon Yagi—as part of the “Saigon Times Foundation – Pham Phu Thu Scholarship” program—are being awarded by Pham Phu Ngoc Trai and the Saigon Times Foundation to students in need.
