BIS Hanoi students represent the school at the NAE Social Impact Summit 2026

This summer, Kanae and Minh Anh, former Year 12 students who are now in Year 13, proudly represented British International School (BIS) Hanoi at the Nord Anglia Education (NAE) Social Impact Summit 2026 in Houston, Texas, joining more than 140 student delegates from Nord Anglia schools around the world. 

Held under the theme "NAE 2030: Making the Invisible Visible", the Summit challenged students to explore the hidden systems, behaviours and issues that shape our communities and the wider world. Throughout the week, students took part in workshops, discussions and collaborative projects focused on values-based leadership, meaningful dialogue and creating positive social impact. 

The programme began with sessions introducing students to UNICEF, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and this year's focus, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Through workshops led by experts from organisations including UNICEF, World's Largest Lesson and Generation Global, students learned how to identify social challenges, engage in constructive conversations and advocate for issues that matter to young people. 

A highlight of the week was a visit to the Houston Food Bank, where students spent two hours sorting and packing food for disadvantaged communities across the city. The experience offered a powerful reminder that making a difference often starts with small but meaningful actions. 

"Volunteering at the Houston Food Bank was one of the most memorable parts of the Summit. It made us realise that creating impact doesn't always have to be something big. Even simple actions can help support people in need and make a real difference in a community." – Kanae, Year 13 

As the Summit progressed, students explored topics such as youth advocacy, empathy, communication and leadership. Working alongside peers from different countries and cultures, they developed a deeper understanding of how diverse perspectives can strengthen collaboration and inspire innovative solutions to complex challenges. 

One of the most significant elements of the Summit was the Capstone Project, where students applied everything they had learned throughout the week to address a real-world issue. Kanae and Minh Anh collaborated with students from BVIS Hanoi to develop a project addressing the challenges faced by people who wait outside public hospitals in Hanoi because they cannot afford treatment. 

On the final presentation day, the team shared their ideas with fellow delegates, educators and experts, demonstrating thoughtful research, creativity and a strong commitment to creating positive change within their local community. 

Beyond the workshops and projects, the Summit also provided opportunities to build lasting friendships with students from across the Nord Anglia family. Through reflection sessions, team activities, cultural exchanges and visits to the NASA Space Center and other local attractions, students formed meaningful connections that continued long after the event ended. 

"One of the best parts of the Summit was meeting students from all over the world. We learned so much from each other's experiences, shared ideas and built friendships that we're still keeping in touch with today."  – Minh Anh, Year 13 

Reflecting on the experience, both students described the Summit as an inspiring opportunity to develop leadership skills, broaden their perspectives and explore how young people can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future. 

As they bring their learning back to BIS Hanoi, Kanae and Minh Anh are continuing to develop their project ideas and explore ways to create meaningful impact within their local community. Their participation at the NAE Social Impact Summit exemplifies BIS Hanoi's commitment to empowering students to become compassionate, globally minded leaders who are ready to make a positive difference in the world.