From remote mountain villages, many young faces have emerged stronger and more determined after being honored at the National Awards Ceremony for Outstanding Ethnic Minority Students and Youth. These recognitions are more than symbolic-they mark the beginning of transformative journeys.

Writing a brighter future

Tao Thi On, an ethnic Lu woman from Nam Tam commune, Lai Chau province, vividly recalls her moment of recognition at the 2019 ceremony-a moment she describes as “opening a new door” in her life.

Following the ceremony, VietNamNet-then operating as Dan Toc & Phat Trien (Ethnic Affairs & Development) Newspaper-sponsored her monthly living and education expenses throughout her university years. That consistent support became a vital foundation for the young woman from the mountains, allowing her to pursue her goals with confidence.

Now working at a travel company in Hanoi, On looks back on 2019 as the milestone that helped her grow, learn, and build a career she had long dreamed of.

For her, the ceremony was not just about celebrating past achievements; it was a powerful source of inspiration. It encouraged ethnic minority youth-especially those from underrepresented ethnic groups and remote areas-to dream bigger and break through their own limits. The award served as a message: ethnic minority youth are crucial to their communities and to national development. It fostered a connection between young people and their roots.

From her own experience, On offers words of encouragement to the new awardees-especially those about to enter university: “The road ahead won’t be easy. There will be challenges, but also many opportunities. Believe in yourself. Dare to live fully, dare to fail. And above all, cherish every opportunity you’re given. Live responsibly and strive each day, so that when we return home, we can make our families proud and give something meaningful back to our communities.”

Another honoree, Nong Thi Ngoc Hue of the Tay ethnic group, from Doai Duong commune in Cao Bang province, is now working in administrative and legal affairs at a real estate company. Her job involves contract review and regulatory compliance in a high-pressure, detail-focused sector.

While the workload can be intense, Hue says the experience has shaped her into a more mature and capable person. “Being part of a growing company right here in my hometown makes me proud. The growth of local enterprises is a good sign for Cao Bang’s economy-and I’m happy to contribute, even in a small way,” she says.

Reflecting on the 2019 ceremony, Hue says gratitude is the strongest feeling it evoked. It wasn’t just about the moment of recognition-it reminded her that every effort, no matter how quiet, has value.

“I believe your starting point doesn’t determine your destination,” she shares. “With persistence and clear goals, every ethnic minority youth can make real progress.”

More than a decade of dedication

Since the first ceremony in 2013, the annual event has honored nearly 2,000 outstanding ethnic minority students and youth across Vietnam. As the 12th edition of the event approaches in 2025, 152 young people are set to be recognized. Behind every name is a story of silent, consistent effort.

The ceremony is also a space for ethnic minority youth from every region to connect, share learning experiences, expand horizons, and build new relationships. Many participants remain in contact after the event, supporting each other through their studies and careers. These ties have formed a vibrant, responsible network of young ethnic minority leaders.

Each individual honored represents a seed of knowledge-carrying the aspiration to uplift their homeland. Collectively, they form a core force for future development in ethnic and mountainous regions.

The long-term vision of the award is clear: to cultivate a generation of ethnic minority youth who are confident, capable, intellectually empowered, and ready to contribute to the nation’s growth in a new era-the era of national ascendance.

Hong Phuc