Canadian speaker Ivan Coyote inspires young people

Famous Canadian Speaker - Ivan Coyote

The story that Ivan Coyote shared with students of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities is the story of his own life - a little girl who realized early on that she was different from her peers. But Ivan was fortunate to have the love and support of her family members so that she could live as herself, to do the things she loved in life. Ivan shared his deep affection for his grandmother - who until the end of her life still called her grandson "little boy" and never stopped supporting him. The only thing Ivan's grandmother and family worried about was whether Ivan would be hurt and influenced by the people around him. Perhaps it was that love and understanding, first of all from his closest loved ones, that gave Ivan the confidence and love for people, for life, to become a storyteller, a writer to convey the message of kindness, empathy and acceptance of different values ​​to people in many countries.

The audience also witnessed the speaker's subtle, expressive storytelling style, going into detail to evoke emotions. The story that Ivan shared about himself and his family was not grand but simple and gentle, showing both the family context and the typical social culture of Canada at that time. But above all, people could recognize the sincerity and a soul full of love of the artist Ivan Coyote.

Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh presents flowers to the speaker

In response to the students’ question about how to fight against negative opinions or discrimination in society, speaker Ivan Coyote answered: the important thing is that we know who we are, know what kind of person we want to become and cherish and love everything we have. Let’s live and work to prove to the world that goodness and to change those concepts, to change this society in a more positive direction.

Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh and Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Deborah Paul, speaker Ivan Coyote. The event was held on the occasion of 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 performer. Ivan has been writer-in-residence at Simon Fraser University, Carleton University, Western University, the University of Winnipeg and the Vancouver Public Library, and has taught at universities and colleges across the continent and around the world. Ivan's books include:Loose End,Boys Like Her,Missed Her,Gender Failure, andTomboy Survival GuideIn 2017, Ivan was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws by Simon Fraser University for his work and activities.

Speakers and Canadian guests take souvenir photos of young people from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities

Ivan often tackles the complex and intense personal issues of gender identity in his work, as well as topics like family, class, social justice and queer freedom, but always with the generous heart, quick wit and nuanced timing of a gifted storyteller. Ivan’s stories remind us that our own humanity is fallible and imperfect, and inspire us to change the world.