Uyen Nguyen
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“The law can often perpetuate injustices and discrimination, but it can also be a powerful tool for the powerless. The Victorian Charter is a prime example of how the law can work in favour of those who are discriminated against.” |
Uyen is interested in numerous social, political and environment issues, particularly those surrounding refugees. Being from a refugee background herself has given Uyen special insight into the adversities some migrants face when they first come to Australia.
“My mother was pregnant with me when my family escaped the war in Vietnam. I was born in a refugee camp in Indonesia and came to Australia when I was three,” says Uyen. “Although I don’t have a clear recollection of this experience, it has allowed me to appreciate that basic human rights such as freedom, education, clean water and sufficient food are not be taken for granted.”
Uyen is currently studying Arts/Law at the University of Melbourne. She is an editor for Perspectives magazine, a youth run magazine initiated by the United Nations Youth Association, and has established a tuition centre for disadvantaged children with the Vietnamese Professionals’ Society. She is a member of the Melbourne University Debating Society and was part of the Royal Women’s Hospital Anti-Bullying Forum.
Uyen was drawn to the ambassador role because she enjoys working with the community and is passionate about human rights and social equality.
“As Human Rights Youth Ambassador, I hope to raise awareness of human rights issues within the community. Human rights are abused not only internationally but also on a local scale.” she says. “To uphold human rights is to respect the dignity and integrity of others.”
Uyen was nominated by the Centre for Multicultural Youth.
