Beauty queen Bui Quynh Hoa urges treatment adherence for HIV‑positive children in Ho Chi Minh City

Beauty queen Bui Quynh Hoa called on families not to neglect treatment for children affected by HIV/AIDS, stressing that following medication regimens is essential for health and future opportunities. She spoke at the 17th edition of the “Step to School” program held at the Saigon New Times stage in Ho Chi Minh City, an annual event organized by the Ho Chi Minh City HIV/AIDS Prevention Association with partners including the “Give a Hand” program, Sky Blue Social Enterprise, and the Saigon New Times Youth Brigade.

The organizers prepared about 350 gifts for the children, fewer than in previous years after verifying each family's circumstances to target support effectively. The program provides material aid and long‑term medical follow‑up, with some children receiving assistance for up to a decade. Bui Quynh Hoa, who has been involved with the initiative for roughly six years, said, “Each time I return, I am happy to see the children and volunteers keep a positive spirit; community support gives families a vital lifeline.”