Lifestart Foundation is a grassroots, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to creating sustainable pathways out of poverty for disadvantaged individuals and families in Vietnam. Established in 2000 by Australian humanitarian Karen Leonard OAM, and supported by a passionate team of volunteers, the Foundation adopts a holistic, long-term approach to improving lives and empowering communities.

Our work is focused on enabling self-sufficiency through access to education and targeted programs that drive meaningful, generational change. We deliver a range of impactful initiatives including:

•	Education scholarships for academically gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds
•	Clean water projects providing safe drinking water to remote communities
•	Vocational training programs that provide practical skills and sustainable income opportunities
•	Housing projects and safe accommodation
•	Medical assistance and health support services
•	Transportation aid and emergency relief programs
•	Technology Access initiative providing Laptops to disadvantaged students

As a registered charity in both Australia and Vietnam, Lifestart Foundation ensures that 100% of donations directly support philanthropic projects within Vietnam. We are proud to be recognised as a Deductible Gift Recipient under Australian tax law, meaning all donations over $2 are fully tax-deductible.

At Lifestart Foundation, we believe in building brighter futures — one life, one family, and one community at a time.

Lifestart Foundation

Org chart

Teams

Offices