Empowering Women and Girls: The Launch of Guardian Girls Vovinam in Vietnam

On September 16, 2025, a significant initiative was launched in Hanoi, Vietnam, aimed at empowering women and girls through the traditional martial art of Vovinam. The international organizations Guardian Girls International (GGI) and the World Vovinam Federation (WVVF) have partnered to introduce the Guardian Girls Vovinam (GGV) project, which seeks to prevent gender-based violence. This project represents a landmark effort combining martial arts and gender equality.

The Launch Ceremony

The ceremony took place at the residence of Naoki Ito, the Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam, where Shin Koyamada, president of GGI, and Dr. Mai Huu Tin, president of WVVF, officially signed an agreement to partner on the global expansion of GGV. This event marked not only the formal launch of the project but also a significant moment where international martial arts meet the pursuit of gender equality.

The reception following the signing ceremony saw the attendance of notable figures, including ambassadors from various countries, UN officials, and members of the Vovinam community. The event attracted media coverage from national broadcasters, including Vietnam’s VTV, highlighting the significance of the initiative across the country.

The Project's Objectives and Benefits

The GGV project will collaborate with national federations in over 70 countries, leveraging Vovinam's techniques and philosophies. These elements aim to instill physical strength, discipline, respect, and mental resilience into the empowerment of women and girls. Vietnam stands out as the first country in Southeast Asia to launch such an initiative, marking a pioneering step for the ASEAN region.

In alignment with the GGV initiative, the Guardian Girls Vietnam Committee has been established to oversee and coordinate project implementation within Vietnam, engaging with various stakeholders, including national sports federations, UN agencies, and educational institutions.

Voices of Support

At the ceremony, Ambassador Naoki Ito emphasized Japan's longstanding commitment to promote gender equality and prevent violence against women and girls. He highlighted previous initiatives supported by Japan, stating,