From the Vietnamese Lotus to the Canadian Maple Leaf

On April 21, 2025, cultural leaders, education experts, and distinguished guests gathered in Hanoi for the event “From the Vietnamese Lotus to the Canadian Maple Leaf”—a meaningful dialogue aimed at strengthening cultural understanding and expanding educational collaboration between Vietnam and Canada. The event highlighted shared values of heritage, human development, and sustainable partnership.

The lotus and the maple leaf stand as powerful national symbols.

The lotus, deeply rooted in Vietnamese heritage, represents purity, wisdom, resilience, and moral character.
The maple leaf, emblematic of Canada, reflects multicultural harmony, inclusivity, and balanced human development.

When these two symbols meet, they represent more than imagery—they signal a new chapter of connection where culture and education serve as enduring bridges between people, communities, and nations.

On the evening of April 21, 2025, the event “From the Vietnamese Lotus to the Canadian Maple Leaf” was held at the Stellami Art Education Center, University of Languages and International Studies – Vietnam National University, Hanoi. The gathering welcomed guests from diplomatic, academic, cultural, and professional sectors who share a common interest in Vietnam–Canada cooperation.

Organizing and Partner Institutions

The event was organized and co-hosted by:

• ORCCED (Organization for Connecting and Developing Cultural & Educational Resources of Vietnam), under ALOV

• Canada–Vietnam Cultural & Educational Council (CVCEC)

• Vietnam Academy of Image & Protocol (PAVI)

• AICI Vietnam – The Association of Image Consultants International (Vietnam Chapter)

Event Objectives

The dialogue focused on:

• Strengthening mutual understanding between Vietnamese and Canadian cultures

• Exploring educational and training cooperation opportunities in a globalized context

• Expanding professional and institutional networks in culture, education, and sustainable development

• Creating a welcoming platform for individuals who have studied, lived, or are interested in Canada and the Vietnam–Canada partnership

Distinguished Guests

The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests and speakers, including:

• Ambassador Nguyễn Phú Bình

• Associate Professor Dr. Nguyễn Lân Trung

• Mr. Trần Nhất Hoàng, Deputy Director General of the Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

• Ms. Nguyễn Thị Lan Hường, Deputy Director of ORCCED

• Ms. Lê An Na, President of AICI Vietnam, Founder of PAVI, Deputy Director of ORCCED

• Mr. Danny Võ, Executive Board Member of AICI Vietnam, Vice President of the Association of Vietnamese Entrepreneurs Overseas

• Ms. Hoàng Hương Giang, Director of G-Art Center

• Mr. Albert Lee, Senior Trade Commissioner, Embassy of Canada in Vietnam

• Ms. Phan Thị Quỳnh Trang, Founder of the Canada–Vietnam Cultural & Educational Council (CVCEC)

A Bridge Between Tradition and the Future

The event fostered thoughtful discussion on how culture and education can serve as long-term pillars of bilateral cooperation. Participants exchanged insights on leadership development, intercultural understanding, and the importance of sustainable educational pathways between Vietnam and Canada.

More than a formal gathering, the evening created a space for authentic connection—where tradition meets innovation, and where shared aspirations for youth, community development, and global engagement shape the future of Vietnam–Canada relations.

Through initiatives like this, CVCEC reaffirms its commitment to building meaningful bridges between the two nations—guided by heritage, strengthened by collaboration, and inspired by a shared vision for sustainable development.