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Community Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS

Vietnamese Born and American Made: Celebrating the Kentucky Science Center and the Tran Family

In the heart of Louisville, KY, the Kentucky Science Center stands as a beacon of knowledge, inclusivity, and community. As an institution dedicated to exploring the intersection of health and humanity, the Science Center continually fosters environments where differences are celebrated and every story is honored. This spirit of inclusivity is exemplified in their latest exhibit, “Uniquely Human,” which delves into the assumptions, biases, and perspectives that shape our self-perception and community interactions.

One of the most touching features of the “Uniquely Human” exhibit is the inclusion of items from the Tran family, a testament to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture and the powerful story of a family that has embraced both their heritage and their American identity. Di Tran, a proud Vietnamese immigrant, and his family have become shining examples of love, care, and inclusivity in Louisville.

Di Tran’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep commitment to community. His books, “Drop the Me and Focus on the Others” and “Embrace the Healing Power of Beauty Services,” are featured in the exhibit, providing insights into his philosophy of selflessness and community service. These works encourage readers to look beyond themselves and contribute to the greater good, aligning perfectly with the mission of the Kentucky Science Center.

However, what makes this exhibit even more special are the personal items on display that tell a deeper story. The embroidered black áo dài and the conical hat (nón lá) showcased were worn by Di Tran’s mother at his wedding. This áo dài nhung, adorned with intricate decorations, represents not only the elegance of Vietnamese tradition but also the love and pride of a mother celebrating a significant milestone in her son’s life. The inclusion of these items highlights the Tran family’s journey and the blending of their Vietnamese heritage with their American experiences.

Di Tran often says, “Vietnamese Born and American Made,” a phrase that captures the essence of his family’s journey. They are proud of their roots and equally proud of the lives they have built in the United States. The Tran family embodies the spirit of resilience and the warmth of community, values that resonate deeply within the walls of the Kentucky Science Center.

As community partners with the Science Center, Di Tran and his children are honored to celebrate the beauty of Kentucky and Louisville in the most inclusive and welcoming way possible. The Tran family’s involvement with the exhibit is not just a celebration of Vietnamese culture but a tribute to the love and unity that define their lives.

The Kentucky Science Center’s commitment to creating a space where all voices and traditions can be appreciated and respected is commendable. Their “Uniquely Human” exhibit is a profound reminder of the power of empathy and understanding. By showcasing the Tran family’s story, the Science Center emphasizes that our differences can bring us together and that each unique journey adds to the rich tapestry of our community.

We invite all families to visit the Kentucky Science Center and explore the “Uniquely Human” exhibit. It is a place of love, inclusion, and celebration of diversity. Come and discover the beauty of our collective stories and traditions, and learn how our assumptions and biases shape our perceptions and interactions.

Join us in honoring the Kentucky Science Center for their leadership and dedication to inclusivity, and in celebrating Di Tran and his family for their loving and inclusive spirit that enriches the Louisville community. Together, we can continue to build a community where every voice is heard, and every tradition is cherished.

Visit the Kentucky Science Center today and be part of this extraordinary journey. Let’s learn, explore, and grow together in a place that welcomes everyone with open arms.

KentuckyScienceCenter #UniquelyHuman #VietnameseBornAmericanMade #CommunityCelebration #InclusiveCommunity #LouisvilleKY #CelebrateDiversity #FamilyHeritage #VisitLouisville #LoveAndUnity

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Celebrating Unity and Progress: The JFCS MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon

Today, Louisville is abuzz with anticipation as the Jewish Family & Career Services (JFCS) hosts the MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon. This prestigious event is more than just a ceremony; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with stories of resilience, diversity, and community service. Among the honorees is Di Tran, a testament to the spirit of determination and entrepreneurship. However, the spotlight shines equally on all the remarkable individuals who have come together to celebrate their shared commitment to workforce development and community enrichment.

The MOSAIC Awards are a tribute to those who have left behind their familiar surroundings, high-ranking positions, or humble beginnings in their countries of origin to start anew in the United States. Each honoree’s journey is unique, yet they all share a common thread: a relentless pursuit of self-improvement and societal contribution. They have embraced workforce development not only as a means of personal growth but as a way to add value to the society that has welcomed them with open arms.

The luncheon is a melting pot of cultures, with honorees hailing from diverse backgrounds such as Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Bosnia, Mexico, Cuba, Somalia, Guatemala and more. Despite their varied origins, they all share a dedication to uplifting the immigrant community and integrating them into the workforce. Many of these individuals have achieved high levels of education in the U.S., while others have transitioned from having limited English proficiency to becoming successful entrepreneurs and professionals.

The MOSAIC Awards symbolize love, family, inspiration, and inclusivity. They celebrate the hard-earned successes of those who have faced and overcome significant challenges. The stories shared at the luncheon are a powerful reminder that adversity can be transformed into opportunity, and that diversity is a strength that propels Louisville and the state of Kentucky forward.

As the honorees share their experiences and aspirations, the room is filled with a sense of unity and purpose. Each individual, in their own way, is contributing to the fabric of the community, pulling others along with them to achieve greatness. The MOSAIC Awards Honoree Luncheon is not just an event; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of hope, resilience, and collective progress that defines the city of Louisville and its vibrant immigrant community.

Di Tran himself shared, “I am among the great of all honorees here and felt small in contribution to the Louisville city and Kentucky State, and I am learning hard to accelerate my rate of contribution like all of you here in the room.” His eagerness to learn and contribute further highlight the essence of the MOSAIC Awards – a celebration of individuals who are not only achieving personal success but are also dedicated to uplifting those around them.

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Community Self-Improve

Embracing the True Essence of Work: Insights from Di Tran on the Lunar New Year 2024

On the auspicious occasion of Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebrated on February 10, 2024, Di Tran, a prolific small business owner, author, and advocate for human connection and cultural roots in the USA, offers a profound reflection on the intrinsic value of work. His thoughts, deeply rooted in appreciation for origin, history, and human-to-human connections, resonate with a timeless truth: the ability, opportunity, and willingness to work transcend mere financial gain. They embody a divine gift that enables individuals to contribute to society, discover their self-worth, and find genuine happiness in life.

Di Tran’s perspective is not just philosophical; it is lived. Today, he cherishes the unique opportunity to work alongside his mother, a vibrant and passionate septuagenarian who, even in her 70s, exudes an indefatigable spirit. Her dedication to her craft and her customers, many of whom have become like family over 20+ years of loyal patronage, exemplifies a deep-seated passion for work that goes beyond the conventional. Her ability to engage in lively discussions about ideas and art, while serving each customer with the care and attention they would receive from a loved one, highlights the human aspect of business that Di Tran holds dear.

This mother-son duo’s approach to work is emblematic of a broader ethos that sees labor not as a burden, but as a form of worship and a path to fulfillment. Their daily hustle, characterized by creativity, passion, and an unwavering commitment to their community, illustrates the profound connection between work, happiness, and the human spirit. For Di Tran and his mother, work is an expression of love—a way to serve and connect with others, to acknowledge their humanity, and to weave a tapestry of relationships that enriches both their lives and those of their customers.

As Di Tran works quietly alongside his mother, he is moved to gratitude for this opportunity to collaborate, create, and contribute. His reflections on this day are a powerful reminder of the beauty inherent in the ability to work. “God is beautiful, and we thank God that we can work and never stop working,” Di Tran muses, his words a testament to the deep sense of purpose and joy derived from his labor. His gratitude extends to the United States and its people, whose embrace of diversity and opportunity has allowed him and countless others to pursue their dreams and find fulfillment in their work.

In sharing his thoughts during the Tết celebrations, Di Tran not only pays homage to his cultural heritage and familial bonds but also offers a universal message of hope and inspiration. His story is a reminder that work, when embraced as an opportunity to contribute, connect, and create, becomes a source of happiness and fulfillment far surpassing the material rewards it may bring. It is a call to recognize the sacredness of labor and to approach our work with the same passion, creativity, and gratitude that Di Tran and his mother exemplify daily.

As we celebrate the Lunar New Year, let us reflect on the true value of work and its role in our lives. May we all find the same joy in our endeavors, the same sense of purpose in our contributions, and the same deep connection to our fellow humans that Di Tran celebrates. In doing so, we not only honor the legacy of those who have paved the way but also forge a path toward a more fulfilling, connected, and joyful life.