|
MISS EARTH VIETNAM
ĐỖ LAN ANH
DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD/GROWING YEARS
My childhood was a tapestry woven with the threads of different cultures. Born in Vietnam, I spent my formative years in Poland and the United States. This unique upbringing exposed me to diverse perspectives and fostered a deep appreciation for different ways of life.
In Poland, I embraced the warmth and beauty of a traditional European upbringing, where family values and respect for nature instilled in me a love for community and a desire to preserve our planet. My time in the United States opened my eyes to the power of innovation and individual initiative, both crucial tools in tackling environmental challenges.
Throughout my journey, I developed a passion for learning and exploring the world, always with a keen eye towards understanding the delicate balance between humans and the environment. This curiosity, coupled with my diverse upbringing, fuels my desire to make a positive impact on the world.
In Poland, I embraced the warmth and beauty of a traditional European upbringing, where family values and respect for nature instilled in me a love for community and a desire to preserve our planet. My time in the United States opened my eyes to the power of innovation and individual initiative, both crucial tools in tackling environmental challenges.
Throughout my journey, I developed a passion for learning and exploring the world, always with a keen eye towards understanding the delicate balance between humans and the environment. This curiosity, coupled with my diverse upbringing, fuels my desire to make a positive impact on the world.
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT?
During college, I went on a snowboarding trip with my 6 friends in the mountains, however, it wasn't the planned three-day snowboarding trip we'd envisioned. We were trapped in our cabin in the woods with a snowstorm howling outside. Instead of carving through powder on the slopes, we carved memories in the lodge. Board games were resurrected and competitive spirits reignited. Laughter filled the wooden halls as Monopoly deals were struck and Uno cards flew. We shared stories, dreams, and secrets in front of the fireplace, conversations flowed after conversations. The storm raged for three days. We learned more about each other in those three days than we had in years of friendship. We saw different sides of ourselves and each other. When the storm finally subsided, we emerged from our refuge, hearts full of a newfound appreciation for the simple things - the warmth of companionship, the beauty of a snow-covered landscape, and the power of nature to bring people together in unexpected ways.
That snowboarding trip wasn't about conquering the slopes; it was about conquering a different kind of challenge together. We discovered that even when nature throws us a curveball, the true joy lies in the shared experience, the unexpected moments of connection, and the realization that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones we don't plan for.
That snowboarding trip wasn't about conquering the slopes; it was about conquering a different kind of challenge together. We discovered that even when nature throws us a curveball, the true joy lies in the shared experience, the unexpected moments of connection, and the realization that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones we don't plan for.
ANY SPECIAL STORIES OR FACTS ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
My family history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Vietnamese spirit. My parents were always looking for opportunities, seeking a better life for their children. They instilled in me a deep appreciation for the sacrifices they made and the importance of hard work and perseverance.
My family also has a long tradition of environmental stewardship. My grandfather was a passionate gardener who taught me the importance of respecting nature and living sustainably. My father, an entrepreneur, instilled in me a strong work ethic and a belief in the power of innovation to solve the world's problems. And my mother, a caregiver for mature people with special needs (Down Syndrome), always taught me to have compassion for all people and things because we all share the same Earth, and that makes us one big family.
My family also has a long tradition of environmental stewardship. My grandfather was a passionate gardener who taught me the importance of respecting nature and living sustainably. My father, an entrepreneur, instilled in me a strong work ethic and a belief in the power of innovation to solve the world's problems. And my mother, a caregiver for mature people with special needs (Down Syndrome), always taught me to have compassion for all people and things because we all share the same Earth, and that makes us one big family.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?
While tending to my rooftop garden, I noticed a wilting sunflower, its head bowed in defeat. Using the techniques I'd learned, I gently whispered words of encouragement, assuring the plant of its strength and resilience. To my utter astonishment, the sunflower perked up, its vibrant face turning towards the sun as if revitalized by my words.
From that day on, I incorporated this unusual practice of nurturing my garden not only with water and soil but also with words of love and support. My plants, in turn, responded with an unexpected flourish. My herbs grew more fragrant, my vegetables more bountiful, and my flowers bloomed with a vibrancy I'd never seen before. While whispering to plants may seem unusual to some, it has become my own little sanctuary. It reminds me that we are all interconnected, part of a vast and intricate web of life. It teaches me the power of empathy, the importance of listening, and the beauty of communication in all its forms. And who knows, maybe someday I'll even be able to convince the world to give their plants a little listen too!
From that day on, I incorporated this unusual practice of nurturing my garden not only with water and soil but also with words of love and support. My plants, in turn, responded with an unexpected flourish. My herbs grew more fragrant, my vegetables more bountiful, and my flowers bloomed with a vibrancy I'd never seen before. While whispering to plants may seem unusual to some, it has become my own little sanctuary. It reminds me that we are all interconnected, part of a vast and intricate web of life. It teaches me the power of empathy, the importance of listening, and the beauty of communication in all its forms. And who knows, maybe someday I'll even be able to convince the world to give their plants a little listen too!
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE TO PROMOTE ECOTOURISM & CLIMATE CHANGE?
● Travel responsibly: Choose eco-friendly accommodations, minimize your carbon footprint by opting for public transportation or walking, and support local businesses and initiatives that promote sustainable tourism.
● Be an advocate: Spread awareness about ecotourism and climate change through social media, conversations with friends and family, and participation in environmental campaigns.
● Support sustainable businesses: Choose companies with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical practices.
● Offset your carbon emissions: Participate in carbon offset programs to compensate for the emissions generated by your travels.
● Embrace the local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, respecting the environment and the communities you visit.
● Be an advocate: Spread awareness about ecotourism and climate change through social media, conversations with friends and family, and participation in environmental campaigns.
● Support sustainable businesses: Choose companies with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical practices.
● Offset your carbon emissions: Participate in carbon offset programs to compensate for the emissions generated by your travels.
● Embrace the local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, respecting the environment and the communities you visit.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY?
I am incredibly proud of Vietnam's rich cultural heritage, resilient spirit, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and modern development.
I am particularly proud of Vietnam's recent strides in environmental protection. The government has implemented various initiatives to address climate change, including promoting renewable energy sources and investing in sustainable infrastructure. These efforts demonstrate Vietnam's commitment to building a greener future for its people and the planet.
I am particularly proud of Vietnam's recent strides in environmental protection. The government has implemented various initiatives to address climate change, including promoting renewable energy sources and investing in sustainable infrastructure. These efforts demonstrate Vietnam's commitment to building a greener future for its people and the planet.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVOCACY?
My advocacy focuses on empowering businesses to take greater responsibility in protecting the environment. I believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in achieving a sustainable future. By adopting sustainable practices, reducing their environmental footprint, and supporting responsible environmental initiatives, businesses can make a significant positive impact on the planet.
I envision a future where businesses are not only profitable but also responsible stewards of the environment, contributing to a healthier planet for generations to come. My goal is to work with businesses, policymakers, and NGOs to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious business landscape, ensuring a future where environmental protection and economic prosperity go hand in hand.
I envision a future where businesses are not only profitable but also responsible stewards of the environment, contributing to a healthier planet for generations to come. My goal is to work with businesses, policymakers, and NGOs to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious business landscape, ensuring a future where environmental protection and economic prosperity go hand in hand.