Book IWD Speaker: Thi Be Nguyen

Refugee story of determination. resilience & empowerment to achieve happiness & success

Against overwhelming odds, Thi Be survived a harrowing escape from Laos during the Communist Party’s occupation following the end of the Vietnam War and the silent was in Laos in 1975. Her family risked everything, attempting to flee the country twice before finally succeeding. For nearly a year, from 1979 to 1980, they lived as refugees in the camps of Nong Khai and Sikiew in Thailand, enduring uncertainty, harsh conditions, and the constant hope of a safer future.

Everything changed when Canada offered her family the chance for a new beginning. Settling into a new country brought both opportunities and challenges. As Thi Be grew up, she faced the lingering effects of trauma and the complexities of navigating a fractured identity. Yet, through it all, her unwavering positivity, resilience, and joy for life became her guiding light.

Building on these experiences over 50 years, Thi Be has cultivated a remarkable and multifaceted career. She is deeply committed to cultural diplomacy, working tirelessly to connect communities across borders and promote mutual understanding. She founded UniAction, a charitable organization, creating initiatives that empower vulnerable populations and foster social cohesion. Her professional journey has included key leadership roles, including serving as Executive Director of the Canada-ASEAN Business Council and leading the Philanthropic and Office of the President at the National Bank of Canada. She has also produced impactful films through UniAction Films, using storytelling to illuminate the experiences of immigrants, refugees, and diverse Canadian communities. Traveling the world to build bridges and amplify voices, Thi Be combines her personal journey with professional expertise, showing how dedication, empathy, and vision can transform lives and communities.

She was honored with the King Charles III Coronation medal by the Senate of Canada in 2024 recognizing her commitment to social inclusion. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of cultural connection, and the impact one individual can have in shaping a more inclusive, compassionate, and united world.

She has been invited to speak at multiple functions including:
- Diplomatic roundtables
- Conferences and forums
- Canadian Immigration Museum
- Canadian Armed Force Military College
- Educational institutions
- Corporations

She is fully bilingual in English and French.

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