In the early days of 2026, we set out for Thai Binh as soon as we received the list of the year’s inspirational figures from the WeChoice Awards. The first name on that list was the Waterway Rescue and Relief Team 116.
When I first heard the team’s name, I found it quite unique and unusual. Before this, I never imagined that waterway rescue would require such a specialized and niche team. It was only when I met them in person that I truly understood just how specific this work really is.
We followed Team 116 during two different periods. The first was during the historic floods in Phu Yen in 2025, and the second was a mission to recover the body of a drowning victim in early 2026. Being present at the scene allowed us to fully grasp the hardships of a job that offers no income yet carries so much responsibility and risk. On this journey, what these individuals gave to us was far more than the footage we recorded of them.
They helped us understand that social work and volunteering are about giving, yet they always demand accountability, honesty, and courage in the face of danger. They also made us realize that the pain of the victims does not just end with what they personally went through, it is also the profound grief of those left behind. To remain committed to this work, the team members have had to sacrifice a great deal.
