Castlemaine is set to host a vibrant and heartwarming community event on Sunday, November 30, raising funds for KOTO (Know One, Teach One) — a pioneering social enterprise that transforms the lives of at-risk and disadvantaged youth in Vietnam through world-class hospitality training and holistic support.
This fundraising event has a special local connection. Owner of local restaurant, Nem Viet, Hoàng T Huệ, was one of KOTO’s very first graduates and now operates four thriving Vietnamese restaurants across Central Victoria — a powerful testament to KOTO’s enduring impact.
Nine other KOTO graduates are currently working in Nem Viet restaurants in Castlemaine and Bendigo.
As a graduate of the program, Huệ is passionate about helping to ensure KOTO’s long term sustainability.
“KOTO’s philosophy is to Know One, Teach One, which means that once you have knowledge or skills, you should pass that on to someone who hasn’t had an opportunity to learn yet,” said Huệ.
“KOTO changed my life and I’m passionate about ensuring that other young Vietnamese citizens from disadvantaged backgrounds can continue to benefit from their world-class programs into the future.”
The Castlemaine KOTO Fundraiser for Disadvantaged Youth in Vietnam will bring the colour, flavour and generosity of Vietnamese culture to the Castlemaine Town Hall on Sunday, November 30 from 3pm to 6pm.
Guests will enjoy authentic Vietnamese canapés paired with local wines, live performances, short films, and inspiring stories of personal transformation.
A raffle and auction featuring outstanding local prizes will also take place on the day.
Attendees will hear from Jimmy Pham, KOTO’s inspirational founder and international humanitarian, who will share firsthand stories from his 25 years of empowering disadvantaged youth through education, training, and community.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to KOTO’s Forever Home project — a new purpose-built training and community hub in Hanoi, providing long-term stability and opportunity for generations to come.
The Castlemaine community is invited to support this wonderful event.
All donations are tax deductible.To book visit: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1485397
For more information contact Marty at martysharples02@gmail.com
