“I came here in 1981 as a refugee. My father’s life was taken away from us too soon in 1985. My mom played the role of both mother and father raising two daughters in a new country on her own. She taught me to be strong, independent and work hard. I’ve always dreamt of owning a clothing boutique. And last year, at age 32 that dream came true. I owe everything to my mom. Now, I can give back to the community I grew up in; nourish it and make it thrive.”
Ani Vong, 33
Lowell, MA
Photo by Phatry Derek Pan
