Hanh Nguyen

I’m a first generation immigrant to the US. My parents fled Vietnam after the war with very little money in their pocket, no knowledge of the English language, and no community to rely on when they arrived to their new home. Despite these challenges, they sacrificed it all and stretched beyond their comfort zone because they dreamed of a better life for my brothers and I. It wasn’t until I moved abroad to a country where English was not the primary language that I fully appreciated the extent of their sacrifice and resilience.

I’ve been very fortunate in my career to have people who have believed in and supported me. It was because of this support and trust that I’ve been able to live and work in three different countries, eventually bringing me back to Singapore a few years back. Singapore was my last port in Asia before leaving to the US; now, coming back after all these years, I feel like I’ve come full circle – a homecoming of sorts.

We are born into our circumstances but it shouldn’t define who we are. I believe, given the right opportunities, resources and support, we can all do great things. I believe Lucy will provide a platform to deliver on those dreams for women, who much like my parents those many years ago, left their home and everything that was familiar to build a better life for their family.

Artist: Wanda Almira, from Finland