Thi Be Nguyen, Founder of UniAction, Honored with King Charles III Coronation Medal by The Honorable Amina Gerba at the Senate of Canada

Ottawa, September 20, 2024 — In a moment of national recognition and deep community pride, Thi Be Nguyen, Founder of UniAction, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in a ceremony held at the Senate of Canada. The medal was presented by The Honourable Senator Amina Gerba, in the esteemed presence of J. Greg Peters, Usher of the Black Rod and personal servant to His Majesty King Charles III.

The Coronation Medal, issued to mark the ascension of King Charles III, honors Canadians who have made exceptional contributions to their communities and the country. Nguyen, a refugee-born cultural leader and social impact advocate, received the distinction for her tireless work in promoting cultural diplomacy, social engagement, and inclusive dialogue through the arts, education, and international cooperation.

Nguyen founded UniAction to bridge cultures, generations, and continents—empowering communities through initiatives such as the Social Impact Film and Art Festival, missions in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, and fundraising campaigns supporting vulnerable populations, including orphans, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“Receiving this medal is not just a personal honour—it is a tribute to all those who believe in compassion over division, in dialogue over silence,” said Nguyen during her acceptance. “Through cultural diplomacy, we uncover our shared humanity, and that is how we build peace.”

The event was attended by other recipients from across sectors, including family members and close friends. The presence of J. Greg Peters, Usher of the Black Rod, lent symbolic significance to the ceremony. As the personal representative of the Monarch in Parliament and a key figure in Canadian constitutional tradition, his attendance highlighted the royal weight of the medal’s meaning.

This milestone not only marks a historic moment for Nguyen and UniAction, but also signals the growing recognition of cultural diplomacy as a vital force for peace, empathy, and transformation in today's world.

As UniAction enters its next chapter—with expanded global partnerships, youth engagement, and storytelling for justice—this honour stands as a testament to what is possible when one chooses to serve with heart, courage, and vision.