K-pop Star Minnie Sponsors Thai Girl's Medical School Dreams

Minnie Nicha Yontararak, a member of Korean girl group I-DLE, is sponsoring a Thai girl named Vanna through the child welfare program of Supanimit Foundation, part of World Vision, to help her pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. On September 5, Minnie appeared at a press event for the film "Henry's First Dates" at The Storeys Square, One Bangkok, revealing that she had long intended to sponsor a child when the opportunity arose. Learning that Vanna dreamed of becoming a doctor, Minnie committed to supporting both her education and quality of life, encouraging her to stay focused on her studies and promising steady support.

Minnie explained that her intention to sponsor a child stemmed from her own childhood at Watthana Wittayalai School, where each classroom would sponsor one underprivileged child. She felt that as she grew older, she wanted to help someone herself. Having been fortunate to receive opportunities and family support to pursue her own dreams, Minnie wanted to help others facing hardship reach theirs. She has been making monthly donations to World Vision since her time in Korea and eventually chose to sponsor Vanna.

Beyond financial support, Minnie emphasized the importance of improving Vanna's overall quality of life, including education and living conditions. She recalled that Vanna's home had a leaking roof, reinforcing her desire to help create a better environment. Minnie has already met Vanna in person, inviting her to an I-DLE concert in Bangkok in March, where they took photos together. Vanna, who enjoys drawing, gave Minnie a drawing as a thank-you gift. Minnie described the meeting as emotional, as Vanna cried upon seeing her. Though Vanna was initially shy and expressed herself through a letter, Minnie was deeply moved and remains committed to supporting Vanna's journey to becoming a good doctor.