Meet Aing- ready to create change.

I’m Thipmala Keonammavong (Aing). I am from Vientiane, Laos.

Growing up, I saw many young people facing challenges like limited opportunities, lack of education, and mental health problem. Seeing these issues motivated me to take action by working with children, youth, and creating a small online mental health advocacy platform called Longjai to provide a safe space for young people to express themselves.

I chose to study the Diploma of Community Services (CHC52025) because I want to turn my passion for helping people into professional skills. At Kangan Institute, their strong focus is on real-world learning, including placements and working with community organisations. I believe this will help me better understand counselling support, youth work, and how to work with vulnerable people. These areas connect closely with the programs I have already started in Laos and what I hope to continue doing in the future.

One of the best parts of my study experience so far has been learning how community support systems actually work in practice. The course has helped me understand important topics such as mental health support, cultural diversity, and how to communicate with and support clients in a professional way. I also really enjoy learning alongside people from different backgrounds, which helps me see community issues from different perspectives.

The course is both challenging and inspiring. Sometimes I struggle to fully understand some of the lessons because many of the concepts are new to me. However, the professors have been very supportive and patient. Their encouragement has helped me grow more confident. Every lesson helps me see new ways to support people and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

After completing the course, my goal is to return to Laos and continue working in community development. I hope to expand my mental health initiative, Longjai, into a formal community support program that provides free emotional support and connects young people with resources.

“Changes in the community does not only happen when you speak for them, but it happens when you hand them the opportunity to act for themselves”. I’m ready to create a change with Kangan Institute.