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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Early Childhood Education Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Immigration Leadership Development Real Estate Self-Improve Workforce Development

Celebrating Unity and Service: Morgan Hancock, Vy Truong, Jani Szukk, and the Cathedral of Assumption

In the heart of Louisville, an extraordinary event unfolded at the majestic Cathedral of Assumption: Let’s Dance Louisville for FEED MY NEIGHBOR. This night brought together a remarkable tapestry of individuals, each contributing to the beauty and unity of our city. Among them, the spotlight shone brightly on Morgan Hancock and her dance partner, Jani Szukk, whose story exemplifies the essence of hard work, resilience, and community spirit.

Morgan Hancock, an Army veteran and devoted mother, is a beacon of strength and determination. Known for her relentless hustle in the business world and her leadership in community-serving initiatives like Bourbon with Heart, Morgan’s dedication to serving others is truly inspiring. Her performance at Let’s Dance Louisville was more than just a dance; it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Dancing alongside Morgan was Jani Szukk, a professional dancer from Hungary who recently became a naturalized US citizen after years in America. Their performance, themed “American Proud,” beautifully embodied the spirit of patriotism and the joy of achieving the American dream. Jani’s journey from immigrant to citizen resonates deeply, especially with those who, like him, have come to this country seeking a better life.

The event also saw the presence of Vy Truong, the Founder, CEO, and licensed Pharmacist in charge of Kentucky Pharmacy. Vy’s story is one of perseverance and excellence. As an immigrant and successful business owner, she exemplifies the profound impact that dedication and hard work can have. Alongside Vy was her husband, Di Tran, a Vietnamese immigrant, serial small business owner, and author of a series of self-help books. Di is known for his tireless efforts in serving the community and raising his three sons with the values of hard work and compassion.

The synergy among Morgan, Jani, Vy, and Di highlights a powerful narrative of unity and service. These individuals, each from different walks of life, are united by their shared commitment to bettering the community. They demonstrate that the beauty of our city lies not just in its landmarks but in the hearts of those who strive to make it a better place.

This event, elevating the cause of FEED MY NEIGHBOR by the Cathedral of Assumption, underscores the incredible potential of community-driven initiatives. It is a reminder that through collective effort, we can address pressing needs and create a more compassionate society. The support and collaboration witnessed here are a testament to the power of unity and the profound impact of serving others.

In the grand tapestry of Louisville, stories like those of Morgan, Jani, Vy, and Di weave a narrative of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the greater good. They exemplify the spirit of “mom bosses,” immigrants, veterans, and community leaders who tirelessly work to create a better future. Their efforts, combined with the mission of organizations like FEED MY NEIGHBOR, illuminate the path forward—a path paved with love, service, and the beauty of God’s grace.

As we reflect on this night, we are reminded of the profound truth that the beauty of our community is found in the hearts and actions of those who serve. Let us continue to support and celebrate each other, knowing that together, we can achieve extraordinary things. The journey of unity, service, and love is just beginning, and there is so much more to come.

May God bless all who contribute to this noble cause, and may the spirit of service continue to inspire us all.

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Early Childhood Education Food Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Health Immigration Leadership Development Small Businesses

Divine Melting Pot: The Story of Di Tran and Supermercado Guanajuato’s Role in Weaving the American Dream

In the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, there is a story that weaves together the threads of culture, cuisine, and community—a narrative that belongs to Di Tran, a Vietnamese local with a profound love for Latino food. It is a tale not just of culinary exploration but also of the universal language of smiles, shared across cultures, and the power of food to bring people together.

Di Tran’s journey mirrors that of many immigrants, beginning with a move to the U.S. in 1995 with no English skills, communicating through the international language of gestures and goodwill. Like him, the two female workers at Supermercado Guanajuato #2, with their limited English, convey warmth and welcome through their smiles and broken phrases. In their exchange of origins, “Vietnamese” meets “Guatemala,” and in their smiles, a shared understanding.

HOT HOT OFF THE OVEN ORDER of Flatbread

The essence of Di Tran’s story is fusion—a fusion that transcends the mere blending of culinary traditions. His innovative use of flatbread, reminiscent of his childhood in Vietnam, cutting it into noodle-like strips or wrapping it around thinly sliced cabbage, creates a delightful tapestry of tastes and textures. Yet, the fusion goes deeper, symbolizing the harmonious blend of different backgrounds and experiences that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of American society.

Louisville, known for its southern charm, has become a canvas for this beautiful convergence of cultures. Di Tran’s love for hot-off-the-oven flatbread, wrapped with Asian-style meats, creates a shared experience that resonates not just with him but with everyone who calls Louisville home. It’s a city where the warmth of its people, whether native-born or immigrant, creates an environment as nurturing and comforting as the food they share.

Through Di Tran’s eyes, Louisville’s beauty shines not just in its landscapes but in the faces of its people—caring, loving, and embracing diversity. The city’s spirit echoes his memories of a childhood in a mud hut where everyone was caring—proof that regardless of our origins, the human experience, at its core, is shared. Di Tran’s life and his food are testaments to the fact that fusion isn’t just about creating new flavors; it’s about crafting new communities, new connections, and a new understanding of what it means to be home.

PS: In a harmonious blend of compassion and beauty, Di Tran founded the Louisville Beauty Academy. Rooted in Kentucky and flourishing with two campuses, this state-licensed and accredited college has become a beacon of learning for a diverse community. It stands as a proud institution where Latino, Asian, and European immigrants, among others, receive not only education but a place to bloom. This academy celebrates the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment, embodying Di Tran’s dedication to providing opportunities for all, uniting the strands of God’s beauty in every individual’s dream.

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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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Beauty Industries

Harmonizing Dreams: The Collective Journey of Minh, Tam, Di, and Vy – A Tapestry of Asian-American Success in Nail Industry

In the vibrant landscape of the American dream, the intertwined lives of Minh Tâm Nguyễn, his son Tam Nguyen, their friend Di Tran, and Di’s wife Vy Truong, compose a rich tapestry of Asian-American resilience, innovation, and community service.

Minh, once a lieutenant in the South Vietnamese Navy, found a new beginning in the United States. His venture into the beauty industry led to the establishment of Tam’s Beauty Salon and Advance Beauty College, symbolizing the adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit of many Asian immigrants.

His son, Tam Nguyen, an MD, and Di Tran, a computer engineer turned beauty academy owner, expanded Minh’s vision. Their dedication to the nail industry is a heartfelt commitment to serving the American society that welcomed them.

Adding another dimension to this narrative is Vy Truong, Di Tran’s wife, a pharmacist by profession and a Massachusetts-licensed nail technician. Vy embodies a unique blend of skills, serving the community both medically and aesthetically. Her involvement in the beauty industry alongside her pharmaceutical career illustrates the multifaceted talents and contributions of the Asian-American community.

Vy’s role in this story highlights the versatility and depth of the immigrant experience in America. She, like Minh, Tam, and Di, represents the ability to navigate and excel in multiple professions, enriching the communities they serve. Her dual expertise in health and beauty is not just a professional achievement but a symbol of her commitment to holistic community service.

The combined efforts of these individuals in establishing and nurturing the nail industry represent a broader narrative of Asian immigrants in America. This community, often arriving under challenging circumstances, has shown remarkable tenacity in building businesses that serve the American public while providing employment and fostering community ties.

Their success story in the nail industry, now a significant economic sector, reflects the innovative and hardworking spirit of Vietnamese immigrants. They have not only introduced and popularized new beauty services but have also created spaces for learning, growth, and mutual support.

This narrative of Minh, Tam, Di, and Vy is a microcosm of the broader Asian-American journey. It underscores the community’s deep appreciation for the opportunities presented by the United States and their eagerness to contribute to their adopted homeland. Their diverse professional paths – from military service and medicine to engineering, pharmacy, and beauty – showcase the rich tapestry of skills and experiences that immigrants bring to America.

Their collective story is a powerful testament to the Asian-American dream, woven with hard work, community service, and gratitude towards the United States. It’s a reminder of the essential role that immigrants play in enriching the nation’s cultural, social, and economic fabric.

THANK YOU TAM NGUYEN FOR THIS PICTURE

“Thank you, USA,” echoes through their combined efforts, representing not just their individual gratitude but that of countless Asian immigrants who view America as a land of hope and opportunity. Their gratitude is shown through their service across various fields, their entrepreneurial ventures, and their unwavering dedication to contributing to the country that has become their home. Their journey is a celebration of diversity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the American dream.