Montagnard Legacy Scholars
The MAO Legacy Scholarship honors the history of the Montagnard community and the leaders who shaped its future. Named in tribute to Dr. YSiu Hlong, whose decades of service supported Montagnard families, it also recognizes the sacrifices of veteran elders and preserves their legacy for future generations. Each year, MAO awards two $1,000 scholarships—one to a high school student and one to a college student—to support their educational success.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Bridging generations by preserving culture, supporting wellbeing, and empowering future leaders.
Cultural Preservation
Youth learn traditional dance, music, and language while preserving Montagnard heritage.
Mental Wellness
We strengthen relationships between youth and elders through connection, dialogue, and mutual support.
Future Leaders
Support the Legacy Scholarship to invest in students, honor our elders, and strengthen our community's future.
Meet Our Scholars
Lydia Buonya
2025-2026 Legacy Scholar
“Hey guys! My name is Lydia Buonya, and I am currently a Junior in High school. I’m so excited to now be part of the Montagnard Legacy Scholars progra,m and I can’t wait to act on my goals for my community!”
YSunhing Nieadrong
2025-2026 Legacy Scholar
“My name is YSunhing Nieadrong, and I am currently a senior in high school. I am excited to be a part of the Montagnard Legacy Program, where I look forward to learning more about my heritage, developing my leadership skills, and exploring ways I can contribute to my community.”
Jordan Dely
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
“Hello, my name is Jordan Dely and I am currently an 11th grader at Greensboro College Middle College. I am proud Montagnard, and I am from the Bunong tribe. I am motivated to take responsibility and bringing guidance to MDA/MAO youth program. My long-term goal is to be a contributor to the Montagnard community advancing the awareness of our people all around the world.”
Y'Bhahin Adrong
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
“Hello, my name is Y’Bhanin Adrong. I came to Greensboro, NC from Vietnam in 2021. I am currently a senior at Page High School. I work part-time at Stamey’s Barbeque. My future goals are to graduate in June 2024 and go to UNCG where I want to pursue a degree in Computer Science.”
H'Lan Siu
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
“My name is H’Lan Siu. I was born in Vietnam and immigrated to the United States with my family when I was 5 years old. I grew up in Raleigh and recently moved to Charlotte to pursue my nursing degree at UNC Charlotte. I am currently working as a Certified Nursing Assistant and a part-time nanny. I enjoy cooking and eating with friends and family.”
Danny Mlo
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
Danny is a senior at UNCG Middle College and will graduate a year early. Danny is CPR, OSHA certified, and plans to pursue a nursing degree at UNCG. Danny’s goal after college is to become a travel nurse anesthetist. Danny is from the Bunong Tribe and has been learning and embracing his culture. He found culture preservation is important and hope to spread the word about the Montagnard community in every way he can. “ Life is only a fragment to the whole in which we use the painting without a canvas for creations; I use it to help people”- Danny M.
Gloria Eban
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
Gloria Eban is an art student at Weaver Academy. She is a mixed-media artist with a primary focus on painting. Gloria does other forms of art such as photography, playing the piano, and fashion. This year Gloria won second place for the 2023 Sixth District Congressional Art Competition. Gloria is an MDA Legacy Scholar who helps teach Rhade classes alongside her mother and is an active volunteer in our community. In the future Gloria sees herself continuing to study art in college.
2022-2023 Legacy Scholar
2023-2024 Legacy Scholar
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