On 15 December 2024, I had the honour of attending the 35th Anniversary of the Vietnamese Australian Women's Forum (VAW Forum) to celebrate this outstanding publication and community that has empowered and united Vietnamese Australian women for decades. For 35 years, VAW Forum has been instrumental in preserving Vietnamese cultural traditions, sharing inspiring success stories, and fostering a strong sense of community. The dedication of the editorial board, founders, and contributors has ensured that this forum remains a platform for empowerment, cultural and spiritual preservation, and integration. As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese refugee settlement in Australia, VAW Forum is preparing a 50th Anniversary Commemorative Journal to honour the strength, resilience, and achievements of the Vietnamese refugee women—from their early settlement to their enduring contributions in enriching our multicultural society. I look forward to its release. Hearing from past, present, and future leaders was truly inspiring as they shared their vision and experiences. I thank Ms Kim Ngoc Dang for the kind invitation and extend my deepest appreciation to all who have contributed to the forum's success. May it continue to thrive for generations to come.
35th Anniversary of the Vietnamese Australian Women's Forum

20 February 2025