Proud of Being Vietnamese

Yes, I’m Vietnamese but it’s not only part of my identity, it's my strength and softness all at  once. I’m insanely  proud to be Vietnamese because it means I  come from a culture that values family, beauty, and tradition. Although I grew up in a traditional household, I was surrounded by love, hard work and food that tells a story. Everytime I hear the language, celebrate the Lunar  New Year (Tet), or  watch my mother cook something that has been passed down through generations, I feel grounded. It’s my culture and my home.

Growing up, I didn’t always know how powerful it was to be connected to your roots. As I got older, especially stepping into creative spaces, I began to see how much of  what I love such as sense of color, storytelling, and style had everything to do with my VIetnamese heritage. From Ao Dai silhouettes to the way we honor our ancestors, my culture is filled with beauty.

In a world that is moving  fast, being Vietnamese reminds me to slow down and appreciate the meaning behind things. Our traditions are rich, symbolic, and full of heart. The way we celebrate Lunar New Year  with red envelopes and rituals or how we prioritize our elders first at the dinner table,  there’s a quiet strength in my life. That is something I carry into my work, my friendships, and the way I show up in real life. 

To me, culture is everything. It’s not only about where you are from, but how you live, what you pass down, and how you make others feel. Being Vietnamese has shaped the way I see beauty, lead with empathy, and express myself creatively. I feel proud to share that part of myself in everything I do from my choices to the way I tell stories. 

I am Vietnamese, creative, emotional, and strong. I am proud to say that I come from a line of women who knew how  to make something out of nothing and carry joy even in hard times. That’s the energy I bring with me and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.