The Service-Learning Empowerment Network began at NIST International School with a simple idea: to bring together like-minded, like-hearted educators committed to service-learning and sustainable development. What emerged was a space where purpose fuels passion, culture builds community, and laughter deepens learning.

The following year at United Nations International School of Hanoi, the network continued to grow. Together, we refined our vision, strengthened connections, and imagined what this community could become, all alongside Vietnamese coffee and the anticipation of an approaching typhoon.

This week, that vision became reality.

Our first Service-Learning Coordinators Conference in September 2025 brought together 45 educators from around the world, expanding our community, inspiring new ideas, and reaffirming the importance of this work. What began as a spark has grown into a global network of educators committed to empowering students through meaningful service-learning experiences.