Honouring Strength and Legacy: Trung Sisters Commemoration 2026
On March 21, 2026, VWAT Family Services proudly hosted our annual Trung Sisters Commemoration at Earl Bales Community Centre, welcoming over 250 community members for a meaningful day of remembrance, celebration, and connection.
The day began with a shared sense of purpose, as staff, board members, and dedicated volunteers arrived early to prepare the space. From arranging the hall to organizing materials and coordinating the many moving pieces behind the scenes, their collective effort created a warm and welcoming environment for all who attended.
A powerful highlight of the event was the presence of a group of students who took on the roles of Hai Bà Trưng, along with their commanders and soldiers. Through their participation, they brought history to life — embodying the courage, resilience, and leadership of the Trưng Sisters. It was a moving reminder of how these stories continue to live on through younger generations.
We were honoured to welcome distinguished guests, including MPP Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario, MPP Josh Rakocevic, and City Councillor Anthony Perruzza. Their presence underscored the importance of recognizing and celebrating the cultural heritage and contributions of the Vietnamese community.
A particularly meaningful moment of the day was the presentation of Volunteer Appreciation Certificates by MPP Michael Kerzner to three of VWAT’s founding members, who have dedicated over four decades of service to the organization. Since its founding in 1982, these individuals have remained committed volunteer Board members, helping to shape and sustain VWAT’s impact in the community.
We were deeply honoured to recognize:
- Vũ Hữu Doanh (96 years old)
- Phương Đàn Nguyễn (95 years old)
- Kim Bảo Nguyễn (80 years old)
Their lifelong dedication is a testament to resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to community. Their contributions have laid the foundation for generations to come, and their presence continues to inspire all of us.
The program featured vibrant performances, showcasing the talent, creativity, and cultural pride of our community. From dance to music and cultural presentations, each performance added to the energy and spirit of the day.
A special recognition ceremony also honoured both seniors and youth volunteers who have made meaningful contributions to our community.
We were proud to recognize the following senior honourees:
- Huỳnh Kim Phi
- Huỳnh Ngọc Quyen
- Huỳnh Thị Hát
- Nguyễn Thị Kim Hoàng
- Huỳnh Thi Hương Loan
- Trần Thị Ngân Hoa
- Bùi Thị Hồng Ngọc
- Nguyễn Thị Hoa
Their strength, lived experiences, and continued engagement are a powerful reminder of the resilience within our community.
We also celebrated our youth honourees:
- Eva Nguyen
- Khang Tran
- Ann Phi
These young leaders represent the future of our community, demonstrating initiative, compassion, and a strong commitment to giving back.
In addition, we recognized our microgrant recipients — Alvin Khuu, Kate Tran, Christie Nguyen, Dafne Arslan, and Tinny Nguyen — whose projects continue to empower youth, foster creativity, and strengthen community connections. Their work reflects the spirit of leadership and community-building that lies at the heart of VWAT’s mission.
Behind the scenes, the kitchen was a constant hub of activity. Volunteers worked tirelessly to prepare and package food boxes for all attendees, ensuring that every guest felt cared for and included. This quiet, dedicated work reflects the generosity and collective spirit that defines our community.
For many attendees, the event was not only a celebration, but also a meaningful return. One community member, chú Miên, shared that it had been a long time since he last attended the commemoration, and expressed how impressed he was by the dedication and care shown by the organizers. His words were a powerful reminder of the impact these gatherings have in reconnecting individuals to their community and cultural roots.
The Trung Sisters Commemoration is more than an annual event — it is a space where history, culture, and community come together. As we honour the legacy of the Trưng Sisters, we are reminded of the strength, resilience, and courage that continue to live within our community today.
