Da Nang creates awards to honor people who make a difference

Da Nang is creating an award for people whose practical actions improve the city, whether or not they are famous.

The Da Nang Young Entrepreneurs Association has launched the “For a Da Nang, a Kind City” awards, covering three groups: “Public Servants in Service,” “Responsible Entrepreneurs” and “Civilized Citizens.” The organizers said they would judge what nominees do and the impact of their actions, rather than their job titles or public reputations.

For the civic category, the search is on for people who support visitors, rescue others, protect the environment, maintain public order, volunteer or persistently carry out good works for the city. Responsible entrepreneurs must first meet their tax, insurance and other legal obligations. The judging panel will then examine their contributions to the community, social welfare, disadvantaged people and local concerns.

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Ultimately, a city’s most valuable asset is its people.

Regular contributions with clear beneficiaries and practical results will receive priority. The amount of money donated will not be the main measure. Applications will be scored out of 100, with real-world impact receiving the highest weighting at 30 points. Other criteria include exemplary and inspirational qualities, reputation and ethics, responsibility, alignment with the program’s values, and the potential for wider adoption. Nominees must score at least 75 points.

Mai Minh Vuong, chairman of the Da Nang Young Entrepreneurs Association, said a city’s value rests not only on infrastructure or development achievements, but also on its people and how they treat the community. “Ultimately, a city’s most valuable asset is its people,” he said. “In a new phase of development, the story of kindness needs to expand, because dedicated public servants need the support of responsible entrepreneurs and civilized citizens.”

The panel may select fewer than the planned number if applications lack quality or cannot be verified. A maximum of 15 people will be honored, with up to five in each group. The ceremony is expected on Sept. 26 in Da Nang, as part of the 2026 Vietnam Private Economic Forum’s regional roundtable on strengthening domestic resources in central Vietnam.

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In a new phase of development, the story of kindness needs to expand, because dedicated public servants need the support of responsible entrepreneurs and civilized citizens.