Celebrating all things Vietnamese

Singing, dancing and even a catwalk show of traditional regional costumes were part of the celebrations that made up the University of Northampton’s Vietnamese Student Society’s fifth birthday gala.

Taking place at Newton Grand Hall at Avenue Campus on Wednesday 1 November, approximately 120 people attended the event, along with special guests including Mr Nguyen Xuan Hai, the First Secretary of Vietnamese Embassy in the UK, senior members of staff from the University and the President of the Students’ Union.

Guests were entertained by a number of different performances, videos of Vietnam, joining in with some traditional games, as well as having the opportunity to sample some Vietnamese food. The students also launched the Society’s Yearbook, which showcases all the activities that have taken place to encourage and inspire new students in their university experience.

The Vietnamese Student Society was established in 2012 with just 20 students and its aim was to help connect them and help them adapt to life in the UK. Now five years on, the society has over 200 members and is one of the most successful student societies at the University of Northampton.

Phuong Le, President of Vietnamese Student Society, said: “Our journey started half a decade ago and been successful with lots of milestones. This gala evening gave us the chance to look back at our journey and express our gratitude to the founders and all individuals who contributed to our success.

“The event was also a fantastic opportunity to connect our University with the Vietnamese Embassy. This relationship is expected to provide our members with a better environment for studying and developing.

“Moreover, it was great to see not only teachers and students from the University, but also various students from other universities. The Vietnamese Student Society at the University of Northampton is a home for all Vietnamese students throughout the UK.

“We believe the event has brought a friendly image of Vietnam to our international friends. As a President, I hope we leave a legacy for the next generations. I hope they will do more better things in the future and the Vietnamese Student Society will be remembered at one of the University of Northampton’s most successful societies years to come.”