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Jet Li promotes the spirit of volunteerism among Vietnam's youth

On his first visit to Vietnam, Chinese Movie Star and philanthropist, Jet Li came with a clear message for the country's youth - 'come together and volunteer your time and energy to help your brothers and sisters'.

In January, Jet Li travelled to Vietnam in his role as goodwill ambassador for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). As part of this visit, he went to Chu Van An High School where students took part in a simulated emergency first aid demonstration and showed their skills in bandaging a head wound caused by a road accident. The Red Cross is a leading provider of first aid training in schools across the country and is set to play a more active role in the Global Road Safety Partnership.

Jet Li also had an opportunity to learn about the disaster management activities of the Red Cross. He visited a primary school in Hau Loc district and spoke to teachers and students about the training and educational curriculum provided by the Vietnam Red Cross which aims to improve local communities understanding about the need to prepare for future disasters such as floods and typhoons. He also visited a nearby mangrove plantation in Da Loc commune where since 1998, local Red Cross volunteers have helped to plant and safeguard 350 hectares of mangrove seedlings which serve to protect the coastline from the impact of tropical storms.

"In Vietnam I have seen for myself the real change that volunteers can bring to peoples lives", he said, adding, "you don't need to be a celebrity like me to have a voice or make a difference".

Jet Li became a goodwill ambassador with the IFRC in 2010 and has since become a champion of the IFRC's International Year of the Volunteer campaign. His philosophy is simple. "I have two hands - one to care for my family and the other to help society. When we grow up, others look after us and as we get older it's important that we look after each other. Everyone should lead a useful life and give something back".

Contact your local Red Cross office for more information about becoming a Red Cross volunteer.