Canadian speaker Ivan Coyote inspires young people with his zest for life.

Renowned Canadian speaker Ivan Coyote

Ivan Coyote's story, shared with students at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, is the story of her own life – a young girl who, from an early age, realized she was different from her peers. But Ivan was fortunate to have the love and support of her family, allowing her to live authentically and pursue her passions. Ivan shared her deep affection for her grandmother, who until the end of her life called her "little boy" and never stopped supporting her. The only thing her grandmother and family worried about was whether Ivan would be hurt or negatively influenced by those around her. Perhaps it was this love and understanding, first and foremost from her dearest loved ones, that gave Ivan the confidence and love for others and for life, transforming her into a storyteller and writer who conveys messages of compassion, empathy, and acceptance of diverse values ​​to people in many countries.

The audience also witnessed the speaker's subtle, expressive, and detailed storytelling, which evoked strong emotions. Ivan's story about himself and his family wasn't grandiose, but simple and gentle, revealing the typical family and socio-cultural context of Canada at that time. But above all, one could recognize the sincerity and a soul full of love of the artist Ivan Coyote.

Professor Pham Quang Minh presents flowers to the speaker.

In response to students' questions about how to combat opposition or discrimination in society, speaker Ivan Coyote replied: It's important that we know who we are, who we want to become, and cherish all that we have. Let's live and work to demonstrate that goodness to the world and to change those perceptions, to change this society in a more positive direction.

Professor Pham Quang Minh and Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Deborah Paul, speaker Ivan Coyote. The event was held to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Canada relations.

Ivan is the author of 11 books, has made three albums, four short films, and is a renowned live performance artist. Ivan is a writer-resident at Simon Fraser University, Carleton University, Western University, the University of Winnipeg, and the Vancouver Public Library, and teaches at universities and colleges across the continent and elsewhere in the world. His works include books such as...Loose End,Boys Like Her,Missed Her,Gender Illness, andTomboy Survival GuideIn 2017, Ivan was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Simon Fraser University for his work and contributions.

The speakers and Canadian guests took a commemorative photo with the young students of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Ivan often delves into the complex and tense personal issues of gender identity in the workplace, as well as topics such as family, class, social justice, and queer freedom, but always with the tolerant heart, quick wit, and nuanced timing of a skilled storyteller. Ivan's stories remind us that our own selves can be flawed and imperfect, and at the same time inspire us to change the world.