JusticeFest Archives - Viet Bao Louisville KY

On a crisp February afternoon in Louisville, Kentucky, a gathering of the city and state’s most compassionate and influential leaders convened for the Kentucky Derby Festival Foundation JusticeFest. Among them was Di Tran, a revered figure in the community, invited for the second time as a judge for this impactful event. As he checked in at 2 pm, badge and booklet in hand, he encountered Rip Hatfield, a former chairman of the festival, for the first time.

What struck Di Tran immediately was the profound level of care and dedication Rip Hatfield exhibited. Despite his esteemed status, Hatfield had been volunteering since 7 am, embodying the spirit of selflessness that Di Tran himself so deeply values. Their conversation quickly turned personal, with Di Tran expressing how programs like JusticeFest uplift individuals from humble beginnings, like himself, a third-world country immigrant who now found himself in esteemed company.

Rip Hatfield, with calmness and humility, shared his own story of growing up in a shared three-bedroom home in Portland during the 1950s, before moving to the Southern end near National Turnpike, not far from where Di Tran’s primary residence on Kingston and 3rd St now stands. Their mutual reflections on the miraculous paths their lives had taken were a testament to their belief in a higher purpose.

At 42, Di Tran sought to understand the meaning and purpose of life, a question he posed to the 80-year-old Hatfield. With serene wisdom, Hatfield responded, “I am still trying to figure that out, but that’s not important. You do the small things you can. I am here today, and I enjoy every moment of it.” This simple yet profound advice resonated with Di Tran, affirming his belief in adding value to the world, one small step at a time.

As they parted ways, Di Tran, inspired and reflective, raced to judge his session, eager to learn more from the diverse voices in the room. The encounter with Rip Hatfield was a reminder of the power of humility, service, and the small yet significant contributions that shape a meaningful life.

JusticeFest is an annual event presented by Churchill Downs, Humana, and Park Community Credit Union that brings together Jefferson County students from grades 3-12 to pitch solutions to community-wide issues. This year, JusticeFest was produced as part of the Derby Equity and Community Initiative, with Kentucky Derby Festival, Churchill Downs, and Humana.

Among the panelists at JusticeFest was Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and the soon-to-be-released book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. As a business owner and a leader in the community, Di Tran understands the importance of empowering young people to create positive change.

Di Tran shared his story and experiences as a business owner with the young leaders at JusticeFest. He is the owner of Louisville Beauty Academy, a beauty school that has graduated over 1000 students, and Louisville Institute of Technology, an IT apprenticeship program that prepares students for the workforce from day one.

Di Tran was impressed by the creativity, intelligence, and passion of the young leaders at JusticeFest. He was honored to be a panelist and learn from them. In his upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran emphasizes the importance of having faith in oneself and in God. He believes that with faith, anything is possible, and one can overcome any obstacle. The young leaders showcased at JusticeFest embody this message, as they tackle community-wide issues with confidence and conviction.

JusticeFest is an event that provides opportunities for young people to showcase their talents and ideas. It allows them to learn from business and community leaders, mentors, advisers, teachers, and other professionals. Di Tran is grateful for events like JusticeFest that empower young people and inspire positive change in the community.

JusticeFest is an important event that showcases the creativity and passion of young leaders in the community. Di Tran’s participation in JusticeFest and his appreciation for the young leaders highlight the importance of empowering young people to create positive change in their communities.