After over a decade of dedicated service, Mr Nguyen Phuoc Long from the Food & Beverage (F&B) Department has been recognised with the FV Shining Star Award for May 2025 – a well-deserved honour for his commitment and reliability. When his name was announced, Mr Long couldn’t hide his joy and emotion. To him, “Every day at FV is a happy day,” and that, he says, is already a reward in itself.

Mr Phuoc Long began his journey at FV in 2014. Over two separate service periods, he has worked in roles ranging from ward catering to FV Bistro, gaining valuable experience serving diverse groups – inpatients and their families, FV staff, young children, and the elderly. These varied roles have given him a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation of the vital role that food services play in the hospital environment.

“Our work is not just about delivering meals. We need to understand the patient’s needs – what they should avoid, what they need to eat, and any allergies they may have. Sometimes, just the right bowl of porridge can help them feel better and more cared for.” Mr Long shared. It is this attention to detail and genuine care that has earned the trust and affection of many patients and their loved ones.

In addition, Mr Long’s flexibility and communication skills have contributed to maintaining harmony within the F&B Department. He fully understands the pressures faced by kitchen staff, dietary aides, and the FV Bistro team, and consistently takes the initiative to coordinate and support his colleagues. He often shares this advice with new team members:“Put yourself in someone else’s shoes to understand and empathise. If you do that, there’ll be no conflict, and the work will go more smoothly.”

Another admirable quality of Mr Long is his thoughtfulness and initiative in daily work. He remembers the food preferences of many regular customers, including FV staff, understands the needs of young children, and is attentive to the mobility challenges of elderly patients. His warm and approachable nature helps everyone feel more comfortable when visiting FV Bistro. For example, if he notices an elderly or unwell guest, he makes sure they don’t need to stand or wait – personally bringing their meal to the table and offering a few kind words. As Mr Long puts it, “Even something very small can make a patient’s hospital visit so much more pleasant.”

Perhaps it is these “very small things” born from genuine care and consideration, that have earned Mr Long the affection of colleagues, the fond memories of customers, and now, this well-deserved recognition. This award is not only a personal honour for an outstanding individual but also a source of pride for the entire team – a reflection of how much his quiet dedication has been seen and valued.

Once again, congratulations to Mr Nguyen Phuoc Long – FV’s Shining Star for May 2025. May the care and kindness you bring to work each day continue to shine brightly, much like a simple meal that may be not extravagant but carries warmth, meaning, and the true flavour of life.