On October 10, the Vietnam Studies Center at Fulbright University Vietnam hosted “Follow Your Instincts: Agent Orange – Voices of Strength, Resilience, and Advocacy.” This event provided a platform for the Fulbright community and beyond to share, listen, and understand the stories of Agent Orange victims who have overcome pain and thrived, as well as efforts to heal post-war wounds.
The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Dick Hughes, an American social activist with deep ties to Vietnam. Hughes has aided numerous street children and Agent Orange victims, while organizing and participating in projects to raise global awareness about Agent Orange’s consequences. Beyond his humanitarian work, he has actively promoted reconciliation and the normalization of Vietnam-US relations in the post-war era.
Fulbright University Vietnam also welcomed Ms. Tran Thi Hoan and Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Phuong, both Agent Orange victims. Ms. Hoan’s journey to a normal life—a reality many take for granted—was fraught with challenges. She faced childhood loneliness, self-doubt when comparing herself to peers, and rejection due to her disabilities. Yet, adversity didn’t deter her pursuit of happiness. During the event, she shed joyful tears amid audience applause as she spoke of her current life: “I have a loving husband, a healthy 18-month-old daughter and a job where I can contribute.” She now works as an information technician at Tu Du Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City.
Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Phuong, one of two siblings affected by Agent Orange in a family of seven, exemplifies resilience. His journey from adversity to becoming a teacher for Agent Orange-affected children is a testament to determination. After years of diverse work experiences in Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the Da Nang Center for Agent Orange Victims and Unfortunate Children was pivotal. “Meeting those children, I realized my fortune in having a functioning brain—a privilege some lack,” he reflected. This experience drove him to return to Da Nang, work at the Center, and dedicate himself to supporting children in similar circumstances. Phuong embodies courage and faith, demonstrating how one can overcome disabilities to contribute uniquely to society.
Part of the “Fulbright Speakers’ Series: The World Beyond a Book” by Fulbright’s Vietnam Studies Center, the event drew diverse participation from students, school leaders, and partners. “Follow Your Instincts: Agent Orange – Voices of Strength, Resilience, and Advocacy” deepened understanding of war’s multigenerational impact while highlighting healing efforts from all sides. More than a platform for inspiring stories, it fostered reconciliation, compassion, and commitment to building a better future beyond past wounds.
Fulbright University Vietnam takes pride in supporting society’s disadvantaged. Through these shared stories and connections, we aim to foster harmony and promote international cooperation in addressing war’s lingering effects.
