A photographer has provided Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper with his pictures capturing a number of disadvantaged Vietnamese students, or former students, who are trying their best to make ends meet in Hanoi.

“In the middle of the crowded street, a young girl who quit university in the first year [for her family's financial problem] is trying to control a big cart full of ceramic products,” 83-year-old photographer Quang Phung said about one of his photos.

“She’s one of many other young people I have met,” he added. “Each of them has their own story which makes me upset and concerned. I was touched seeing how hard they had to work to earn a living and help their parents.”

“I keep wondering if they could overcome the obstacles of this life,” he expressed.

Below are some photos taken by Quang Phung:

A student named Hien is seen selling bread around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. She said the job earns money for her family, as well as helps her improve her English. Photo: Quang Phung

Third grader Nam helps his mother sell lucky money envelops, given during Tet, or the Lunar New Year festival. “It’s not heavy, I’m used to it,” Nam responded when asked if the tray containing the envelops is heavy. Photo: Quang Phung

Hong and her friend sell golden fish and votive items for the Kitchen God offering ceremony, observed a week before Tet, on Tran Xuan Soan Street in Hanoi. Photo: Quang Phung

A young girl is shown upset since she was not able to sell out her plastic flowers. Her friend said they could not sell anything all morning. Photo: Quang Phung

A young girl sells raincoats for visitors at Ba Kieu Temple. Photo: Quang Phung

Twelfth grader Chi is pictured selling lucky pockets to foreign tourists at Hoan Kiem Lake. Photo: Quang Phung

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