KOTO, Know One Teach One, is a unique vocational training program and not for profit restaurant that is changing the lives of street and disadvantaged young people in Vietnam.

KOTO began in the late 90 s when Jimmy Pham, an Australian Vietnamese tour guide was moved by the plight of young people living on the streets of Hanoi. In 1999, with the assistance of Melbourne Chef Tracey Lister, he started a sandwich shop as a way of providing disadvantaged young Vietnamese with an income and hospitality training; KOTO was born.

KOTO s founder, Jimmy Pham and one of its graduates will host a special fundraising event on Tuesday 26 May in Melbourne, supported by Box Hill Institute and Peregrine Adventures.

Mr Thai, who is accompanying Jimmy, is proof that KOTO is changing lives and giving opportunities to Vietnam s youth. Thai grew up in a poor rural family in Hanam Province. At 14 years old, he came to Hanoi to find work to support his family, because his parents could not afford his schooling. But jobs were hard to get and he ended up as a shoeshine boy, working on the streets for four years until he heard about KOTO.

Meet Jimmy and Mr Thai, hear their stories; bid on wonderful items like a 12 day Peregrine Adventures Vietnam trip for two as part of the silent and live auctions; enjoy good food for a great cause; and help KOTO to continue to provide training for young people in hospitality, English language and life skills, giving them the opportunity to gain good jobs and careers so they can support themselves and their families.