NGUYEN THI TUONG HUY

STUDENT ·  HANOI AMSTERDAM HIGH SCHOOL

Hi, I’m Nguyen Thi Tuong Huy. From a very young age, I’ve been the kind of person who pays attention to every tiny detail around me. I observe people, objects, emotions, and problems down to their “molecular” level. The more I looked closely, the more I realized how much pain and struggle quietly exist in the world.

And while that awareness could have easily turned into helplessness, I chose not to let it. Instead, I began taking small but meaningful steps to contribute to the world, starting right where I live. I saw our environment degrading rapidly, so I turned to what I know best: chemistry. I committed myself to learning and applying scientific knowledge in hopes of helping restore what is being lost.

Then I noticed something even closer: my neighborhood. Many families around me lived with fewer opportunities than I had. With music being a source of comfort and expression in my life, I transformed it into a fundraising tool to support them. Healthcare inequality was another reality I couldn’t ignore. Advanced medical equipment, especially diagnostic tools, remained far from reach for many.

I spent days and nights in the lab developing a more affordable biosensor. This device could offer an earlier diagnosis and perhaps a second chance to a precious life. I saw mistreatment and abuse of many of our favorite pets. I joined an animal protection community and spread the advocacy, awareness, and education that can change how society treats its voiceless companions. Then, I saw the kid. I realized that my privilege of knowing English is a gift, and it would be meaningful to teach young children not only the language but also how to observe, think, and understand the world from different perspectives.

Eventually, I looked at the closest person to me: my mother, and then at myself. We are two people living, choosing, regretting, accepting, and moving forward. The fleeting nature of life reminded me of a beautifully spontaneous jazz song. So I pause to create a film capturing our story, our decisions, our regrets, our acceptance, and our pursuit of happiness. So feel free to come along my journey!