In Hanoi, Vietnam, Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu has spent over a decade integrating humanitarian values into the fabric of her business. As the chairwoman of Capital Ford and a 2026 Ford Salute to Dealers honoree, Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu focuses her efforts on the Classroom for Children project, building and upgrading school facilities in remote mountainous provinces.
The Salute to Dealers program recognizes dealer principals who go above and beyond for their communities, and Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu’s work has provided safe learning environments for thousands of students.
“What we do may not change the whole world, but it can truly change the world for someone,” said Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu. “When I see a school completed, or children smiling with hope in their eyes, I feel that every effort was worth it.”
Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu's leadership was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she launched the Safety Shield for Frontline Doctors project to supply protective equipment and isolation booths to medical staff. She also champions the Capital Ford Charity Fair, an annual event that blends fundraising with cultural preservation. By fostering a culture of compassion within her dealership, Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu has transformed individual acts of kindness into a collective force that has assisted more than 3,000 people across Vietnam.
Who in your life set the example for what it means to help those in need?
Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu: My parents were my biggest influence. They grew up in poverty themselves, and when I was 15, we moved to a city where the gap between rich and poor was very clear. That experience shaped a belief I still carry today: When you have more than you truly need, share.
What is the most rewarding part of seeing your dealership employees rally together for a local cause?
Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu: For me, the greatest reward is seeing a change in mindset. What started as my idea slowly becomes something they truly care about themselves. That is when I know the culture is right. The company is no longer just a place where people come to work, but a community that cares.
For a young person who wants to help but doesn’t know where to start, what is the first small step you would recommend?
Nguyễn Quỳnh Châu: I believe kindness begins in everyday life. Small actions matter. If young people learn to be kind and caring first, over time they will find their own way to do bigger and more meaningful things.
For 26 years, Ford has celebrated the extraordinary contributions of its dealers through the Salute to Dealers program. Congratulations and thank you to all eight of the 2026 honorees for their commitment to service.
