Key Points
Host the ‘Tiếng Mẹ Nơi Xa’ event on October 19, 2025, to celebrate the 95th anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Union at Higashi Osaka’s Cultural Center.
Announce the Vietnamese Women Entrepreneurs Network in Japan to support Vietnamese women’s economic and leadership roles, fostering international cooperation.
Launch a fundraising campaign to aid victims of typhoon No. 10 in Vietnam, demonstrating solidarity and strengthening community ties abroad.
On October 19, 2025, the Cultural Center of Higashi Osaka city in Japan became the vibrant heart of a remarkable celebration, as the General Association of Vietnamese People in the Kansai region hosted the program “Tiếng Mẹ Nơi Xa”—which translates to “Mother’s Voice from Afar.” The event, attended by a diverse gathering of guests, associations, and Vietnamese expatriates living, studying, and working in the Kansai area, was held in honor of the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union, a date deeply cherished within the Vietnamese community (October 20, 1930 – October 20, 2025).
According to Cong Luan and Nhân Dân, the ceremony was more than just a commemoration; it was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring strength and cultural legacy of Vietnamese women. The atmosphere buzzed with warmth and unity, as participants—ranging from community leaders to children—came together to express their appreciation for the women who have long been the pillars of Vietnamese families, both at home and abroad.
Opening the event, Ms. Lê Thương, Chairwoman of the General Association of Vietnamese People in Kansai, delivered a moving speech. “Vietnamese women, wherever they are and whatever their circumstances, remain the beloved support of their families and are the bearers and spreaders of Vietnamese cultural and spiritual values,” she emphasized, echoing the sentiments of many in attendance. Her words underscored the essential role of women not just in nurturing families, but in preserving and promoting the unique identity of the Vietnamese people, especially in a foreign land.
Ms. Lê Thương also took the opportunity to unveil plans for a new initiative: the Vietnamese Women Entrepreneurs Network in Japan. This network, she explained, is designed to connect, support, and enhance the role of Vietnamese women in the fields of economy, startups, and international cooperation. The announcement sparked considerable interest among participants, who saw it as a promising step toward empowering Vietnamese women to reach new heights in business and leadership. The initiative, as reported by Nhân Dân, is expected to open new avenues for the community, fostering greater economic participation and international collaboration.
But the event’s impact didn’t stop at celebration and ambition. In a poignant act of solidarity, Ms. Lê Thương, on behalf of the General Association, launched a fundraising campaign to support those affected by typhoon No. 10 in Vietnam. This gesture, in response to the call of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, was met with enthusiastic support from associations and individuals alike. It was a living embodiment of the traditional Vietnamese spirit of “lá lành đùm lá rách”—the idea that those who are fortunate should help those in need. The campaign not only provided tangible aid but also reinforced the community’s enduring connection to their homeland, even from afar.
The program’s significance was further highlighted by the presence of distinguished guests from both Vietnam and Japan. Mr. Nguyễn Đăng Hoàng, Deputy Consul in charge of the community at the Vietnamese Consulate General in Osaka, addressed the audience with heartfelt congratulations to all Vietnamese women in Japan. He praised the association’s proactive role in connecting the community and promoting Vietnamese culture to international friends. “Activities like ‘Mother’s Voice from Afar’ not only create a spiritual playground for women and overseas families but also help strengthen the friendly relationship between Vietnam and Japan on the foundation of people-to-people cultural exchange,” he said, as cited by Cong Luan.
From the Japanese side, Mr. Yoshi Fumi, Head of the Culture Department of Higashi Osaka city, expressed his pleasure at accompanying the Vietnamese community in the city. He commended the dynamism, progress, and compassion of Vietnamese women, and affirmed the city government’s commitment to supporting community activities that foster cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations. His remarks, reported by Nhân Dân, reflected the growing mutual respect and collaborative spirit that have come to define the relationship between the Vietnamese diaspora and their Japanese hosts.
Among the event’s highlights was a special health-focused session titled “Cancer Screening and Women’s Health Protection,” presented by Dr. Phạm Nguyên Quý, Head of the Oncology Department at Kyoto University Hospital. Drawing on his expertise and experience in Japan’s medical field, Dr. Phạm provided practical, accessible information on early cancer screening, proactive health care, and the effective use of local medical services. His presentation was especially well-received by the women in attendance, who found the advice both timely and empowering in navigating health care systems abroad.
No Vietnamese gathering would be complete without music and art, and “Tiếng Mẹ Nơi Xa” was no exception. The program concluded with a series of artistic performances by community art groups and children, all dedicated to themes of love for the homeland, the resilience of Vietnamese mothers, and the indomitable spirit of Vietnamese women. The melodies and radiant smiles of the performers created a warm, nostalgic atmosphere, bringing a touch of home to those far from Vietnam. According to Cong Luan, the performances left a lasting impression, reinforcing the sense of unity and shared heritage among attendees.
Throughout the evening, the spirit of solidarity, mutual support, and cultural pride was palpable. The event did more than honor a historical milestone; it provided a space for Vietnamese women—and the broader community—to reflect on their journey, celebrate their achievements, and look forward to a future of greater connection and opportunity. The presence of multiple generations, from elders to children, served as a poignant reminder that the legacy of Vietnamese women is not only cherished but actively carried forward.
As the lights dimmed and guests exchanged farewells, the message of “Tiếng Mẹ Nơi Xa” lingered: Vietnamese women, wherever they may be, continue to inspire with their confidence, compassion, and resilience. In the heart of Japan, their voices ring out—not just in song, but in the everyday acts of care, leadership, and community building. For many, the event was a powerful affirmation of identity and belonging, proof that even far from home, the spirit of Vietnam endures and thrives.
AloJapan.com