Vietnamese Association Toronto

Founded in 1972, the Vietnamese Association, Toronto (VAT) developed from a volunteer-based socialization group to a non-profit multi-service agency.

Incorporated in 1979 as a non-profit and charitable organization, VAT is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors whose members are elected from membership at an annual general assembly.

To provide settlement and adaptation services to newcomers and help them integrate and participate successfully in Canadian society.

To promote mutual understanding, tolerance and racial harmony among ethno-cultural communities.

To work for the promotion and preservation of the Vietnamese heritage and culture, and for the enrichment of multiculturalism in Canada.

To provide education, counselling and other support services, including language instruction, scholarships, employment training, job search programs, translation service and information programs on Canadian culture and life.

To establish, maintain and operate an employment training center. This includes providing assistance in job search, resume writing and interview preparation.

To provide workshop and seminars on health, social and economic issues that affect the community. These issues include but are not limited to access to government income assistance programs, women's health, domestic abuse and gambling addiction.

1. Vietnamese Canadian Federation (VCF) (www.vietfederation.ca)

2. Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) (www.ocasi.org)

3. Nellie's (www.nellies.org)

The Vietnamese Association, Toronto (VAT) is pleased to announce that Diep Dang Duy has been elected as President of VAT for the 2011/2012 calendar year.

Diep Dang Duy is one of the leading multi-media professionals in the Vietnamese Canadian community and has over a decade of experience in community leadership roles, particularly involving youth and Vietnamese culture. His involvement in community projects includes the Vietnamese Scouts of Canada, Tieng Noi Tre youth radio, the VCSA, Len Duong Leadership Camp, and the UVSA, among many others.

“I am honoured and excited to lead the VAT. But I also understand the significant responsibilities and challenges of this role. As such, I’m fortunate to have a talented Executive Board with me as we aim to take our great community to new heights,” says Diep Dang Duy.

“I’m also grateful for the line-up of experienced and dedicated advisors who have instilled me with the passion to serve our community. And I’m especially inspired by the countless VAT volunteers that donate their time for others.”

Diep Dang Duy takes over for Nguyen Quang – who finishes a successful two-year term that saw the Hoi Cho Tet Festival return to profitability, Vietnamese youths participate in the Asian Games, and the creation of the Vietnamese Innovators and Visionaries Awards.

“I fully endorse Duy and the new Executive Board. I would like to thank everyone who helped me during my time as President over the past two years. In turn, I promise to assist this new leadership team in any way I can,” says Nguyen Quang.

Joining Diep Dang Duy on the VAT Executive Board will be:

Pham Minh Tho: Vice President - External

Nguyen Ngoc Mai: Vice President - Internal

Nguyen Linh: Treasurer

Huynh Thien: General Secretary

“This is a pivotal period for the VAT and our community. As Vietnamese Canadians, now is the time to reach for lofty social, economic, and political goals,” says Pham Tho.

“With valuable insight from our elders and strong partnerships with key organizations such as the Vietnamese Veterans Association, Vietnamese Seniors Association, VWAT, and religious groups, this team has the potential to reach such goals and serve many people," says Nguyen Mai.

Supporting the VAT Executive Board will be a team of experienced advisors and skilled young professionals:

Ba Huynh – Board Member

Phuc Nghiem-Phu – Advisor

Nguyen Pha – Board Member

Nguyen Quang – Board Member

Dr. Khoi Nguyen – Board Member

Diep Phat - Board Member

Nguyen Manh – Executive Director

Phieu Le – Chair, Hoi Cho Tet

Anthony Pham, LLB – Board Member, Legal counsel

Nguyen Trung, LLB – Board Member, Legal counsel

Nguyen Khang – Board Member, Youth initiatives

Huynh Truc – Board Member, Chair of Student Scholarships Committee

Anna Do – Chair of VIVA Gala Committee