About Quyen
Biography
Despite a challenging childhood, Quyen overcame numerous obstacles to become one of the fiercest community advocates in the Vietnamese American community. He believes that with determination and a strong vision, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
During the rise of gang activity in the 90s, Quyen, as a youth, faced influences from the streets, experienced discrimination and racism at school, and endured prolonged encounters with the justice system. Additionally, he grappled with systemic racism and inequality, which further compounded his challenges. Despite the limited resources available, Quyen's determination to rise above his circumstances fueled his mission for change.
Recognizing the persistent disadvantages faced by underserved communities in accessing resources and benefits, in 2008, Quyen founded a radio program on KVVN AM-1430, one of the most popular radio stations in the Bay Area. Through his informative daily talk show, Quyen strives to make significant impacts in the Vietnamese American community. He leverages the powerful platform of the radio station to address critical issues, catalyze community change, bridge generational gaps, and promote quality nonprofit services and resources. Above all, he inspires Vietnamese American youth to engage, get involved, and empower their local community while preserving their language, culture, and identity.
In July 2012, Quyen brought together many community leaders to start the Vietnamese American Roundtable (VAR) with the mission to connect organizations and professional individuals, fostering resource sharing, networking, and collaborative opportunities for the betterment of the Vietnamese American community. He initiated several key projects, including the Black April Commemoration, Mid-Autumn Festival, Community Forum, and Community Picnic.
In 2014, Quyen founded the San Jose Tet Festival team to lead the Vietnamese New Year Tet Festival, celebrating both traditional and modern Vietnamese American culture to inspire youth, families, and communities. In 2015, Quyen embraced another challenge by becoming the Executive Director of VIVO (Vietnamese Voluntary Foundation), aiming to revive the organization and empower the underserved community.
During the flood of the century in San Jose in 2017, which caused severe property damage and forced 14,000 people to evacuate with little to no warning from the local government, Quyen stepped up to help. He recruited friends and volunteers to translate and disseminate information to the impacted, mostly low-income residents. Working with city leaders, he successfully advocated for funding to support flood victims with essential household supplies. He also mobilized residents, educated them on their rights, and worked with volunteers from VABANC (Vietnamese American Bar Association of Northern California) to help file hundreds of claims.
In 2019, Quyen founded VAO | Vietnamese American Organization to continue his mission of empowering the local community.
Quyen has received numerous commendations and awards from the state, county, city, local school districts, and various organizations. These honors include the Community Hero Award from the California Assembly, the Disaster Services Hero Award from the American Red Cross, and an unconditional pardon from the Governor of California.
In addition to his community work, Quyen
is a business consultant specializing in helping small businesses. In his free time, he enjoys gathering with friends at cozy local tea shops, where they immerse themselves in vibrant conversations about the latest trends and pressing issues, spark creative ideas for community projects, delve into the mysteries of life, and seek the keys to happiness and enlightenment over soothing cups of tea.
