Meet Aline Tran | Nonprofit Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aline Tran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aline, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I started my nonprofit, I had no clue of what it would become. “Send A Miracle” began as an idea to make a positive impact on an impoverished community in Guatemala. Initially, it was a passion project. About a year ago, I didn’t even have a name for this project; it was simply an idea. However, I knew that I did not want this idea to go to waste, so I started talking about it to everyone willing to listen. I spoke about it in speeches, at networking events—whenever I had a chance, I was discussing it. Despite not being an extroverted person, I pushed myself into uncomfortable positions so that this idea could become a reality.

Eventually, people were able to see my vision, and they joined me in realizing this idea. Every day, I worked on developing this project. I honestly did not know if it was going to succeed, but my team and I put in the effort. Gradually, we gained a following and online support, leading to exponential growth. Our team expanded, we released a documentary, and we continue to take on important projects.

None of this would have been possible without my wonderful team of passionate volunteers. Although we encountered obstacles and challenges, I knew we could overcome them because, at the end of the day, it wasn’t about being perfect; it was about our goal to help those in need and doing whatever it took to make it a reality. I would say our team’s best characteristics are our ingenuity, resilience, and ambition. That is the reason why we continue to make great strides in growth.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In my role as the founder and director of a nonprofit, I’m focused on assisting those in need, particularly children facing poverty-related challenges. Our mission is driven by the understanding that these children are innocent victims of their circumstances. This understanding motivates both myself and my team to get up every day and work diligently. We also recognize the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility we bear to bring about positive change.

One primary challenge I’ve encountered since launching this organization involves people doubting or overlooking my capabilities. As a young female entrepreneur, I’ve come across instances where people have told me that I am incapable of handling this role because of my age. There have been people who did not take me seriously, and have made misogynistic remarks towards me. Even in the community we serve, the deeply ingrained patriarchal structure has meant that it took time for the village leaders to accept that a woman was the leader of our nonprofit. This issue isn’t limited to my nonprofit; it extends to my other entrepreneurial ventures as well.

To be honest, I’m still navigating how to address these situations. Nevertheless, I’m appreciative of the insights gained into the prolonged challenges faced by women. These experiences fuel my commitment to empower other women and young individuals, encouraging them to pursue their goals despite potential obstacles.

I am very grateful for the opportunities I have received. I know now that if you have faith and courage, you can overcome any challenge. Even the ones that seem impossible. And yes it is normal to fail, but do not allow that to stop you. Continue moving towards your goal, and never give up.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The first thing I would do with them is head to the beach, as there are numerous activities to enjoy there. I’d start off with a visit to the Getty Villa. Following that, a lunch at Dukes would be in order, followed by a relaxing beach session. Afterwards, a trip to the Santa Monica promenade would be on the agenda, ending with a stroll on the Santa Monica Pier.

During my free time, I also enjoy going to places like The Grove, The Griffith Observatory, or taking a visit to a beautiful museum. Having traveled to various countries, I’ve gained appreciation for the endless activities and sites to see here in LA. The city offers an ever-changing array of attractions. In fact, I find it quite challenging to run out of options for things to do in this city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Without my team, none of what Send A Miracle does would be possible. I always say that ten minds are better than one. Every person who is a part of Send A Miracle brings something unique to the table that only they, as individuals, are capable of bringing. We have such a diverse and impressive group of individuals on our team. Each person has a different background and brings in their unique perspective, which elevates our nonprofit as a whole.

At Send A Miracle, we place great importance on collaboration. I am a firm believer that everyone possesses a talent and/or skill that can be used and elevated to help others. A prime example of this is our Director of Media, Aden Bertisch. He has a passion for media, and prior to joining Send A Miracle, he was a popular creator on TikTok. When I met him, he expressed his desire to utilize his skills to promote Send A Miracle. Through his unconventional idea of promoting our mission on TikTok, we garnered massive attention and established a consistent way of marketing and receiving funds to support our cause.

We have team members who enjoy planning events, others who excel at connecting with people, some who are skilled writers, others who thrive in performing arts, and even those who are passionate about math, health, or the environment. Each person contributes something important to the organization. They are the reason why Send A Miracle is evolving into something greater than all of us. With that said, I would like to dedicate this shoutout to all of them.

Website: sendamiracle.org

Instagram: @sendamiracle

Youtube: https://youtu.be/CdjHZ0yIxqc?feature=shared

Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sendamiracle