Rising above hardships
Born into an E De ethnic family in Sut M'Dung Village in the Central Highlands Province of Dak Lak, H'Hen experienced a challenging childhood in rice and coffee fields.
She recalls, “As a child, I had to wake up early to help my mother in the fields before going to school. Life was tough back then, but it taught me resilience and appreciation for every little thing.”
As the youngest in a large family, H'Hen understands the value of sacrifice. Although her family’s economic situation could not fully afford her education, she did not give up on her dreams.
She took on various part-time jobs - from coffee picking to housekeeping and modelling—to cover her tuition fees.
“I never felt ashamed of being a housekeeper. It’s honest work, and it helped me grow,” she shares.
 |
H'Hen Nie was crowned Miss Universe Vietnam 2017 (Photo: thanhnien.vn) |
The biggest turning point came when she decided to participate in Miss Universe Vietnam 2017. Initially opposed by her family due to traditional beliefs against their daughter entering beauty contests, H'Hen remained steadfast and proved that she sought not only fame but also wanted to spread humanitarian values and social responsibility.
Winning Miss Universe Vietnam 2017 not only brought H'Hen closer to the crown but also served as a stepping stone for her international endeavours. At Miss Universe 2018, she impressively made it into the Top 5 - the highest achievement for Vietnam at that time.
During the Q&A section, H'Hen stated: “Everyone has the right to dream and change their destiny.” Her words won the hearts of judges and inspired millions of viewers. She became a symbol of overcoming adversity and pride for the Vietnamese people.
In 2018, she won the Missosology Timeless Beauty award. This title celebrated her beauty and talent and affirmed that she represents a strong, resilient generation of Vietnamese women filled with compassion.
Green steps on a philanthropic journey
Since her crowning, H'Hen has actively engaged in environmental protection projects. One notable initiative is her involvement with a sea turtle conservation project in the Con Dao Island district of Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province in 2024.
As a goodwill ambassador, H'Hen participated in activities such as releasing baby turtles into the sea and sharing conservation experiences. “Watching those tiny turtles waddle back to the ocean makes me feel the miraculous essence of life and the importance of protecting nature,” she said.
 |
H'Hen Nie has participated in various reforestation campaigns (Photo: VN+) |
Additionally, H'Hen has participated in various reforestation campaigns in the Central Highlands and Lai Chau Province.
In Lai Chau, she joined the community to plant over 5,000 trees, revitalising degraded lands. This initiative not only provides environmental benefits but also creates sustainable income for locals through forest care.
She once expressed: “Growing up amidst mountains and forests, I understand that nature is not just an asset but an indispensable part of our very being.”
Beyond environmental projects, H'Hen places significant emphasis on charitable activities. During the historic floods in Vietnam’s central region in 2024, she waded through mud carrying rice bags and blankets for relief efforts. She also organised charity meals that brought warmth and hope to grieving families.
For H'Hen, the Tet (Lunar New Year) Festival is not just a time for reunion but an opportunity to share.
 |
H'Hen Nie distributes eco-friendly bags for traders at Con Dao Market (Photo: baotainguyenmoitruong.vn) |
In late 2024, she visited mountainous provinces like Lai Chau and Dak Lak to distribute Tet gifts to children and the elderly. Though small gifts like ‘banh chung’ (sticky rice cake), warm clothes, and school supplies were given, they carried deep sincerity.
H'Hen also joined locals in making ‘banh chung’ and organising community meals to spread the festive atmosphere.
H'Hen firmly believes that education is key to sustainable development. Over the past year, she funded the construction of green library model in the Central Highlands, providing a friendly learning space for children. From selecting books to designing spaces, she personally ensured every detail met children's needs.
She also hosted sessions during which she recounted her story of overcoming challenges with students. The image of H'Hen sitting beside children telling stories in E De ethnic language left a lasting impression on the community.
“I want the children to believe that with willpower and effort, any dream can become reality,” she said.
Furthermore, H'Hen supports scholarships for underprivileged students in the Central Highlands. Each scholarship is not just material assistance but a source of encouragement for them to continue their educational journey.
I believe that if every young person lives green and gives generously, we can build a better future.
Not merely a beauty queen, H'Hen is also an ambassador for green living. She consistently opts for environmentally friendly products across fashion and consumption sectors. Her recycling habits have long been established, she crafts decorations from recycled materials or uses cloth bags instead of plastic ones.
She shared that everyone can start living green with the smallest actions. “We don’t need perfection. Once we all stand together, the results will be monumental.”
For younger generations, H'Hen Nie is more than just a beauty icon, she is a powerful source of inspiration. She continuously calls for young people to act for the environment and live responsibly within their communities.
“I believe that if every young person lives green and gives generously, we can build a better future,” she expressed.
H'Hen's steps have written a beautiful story about compassion, social responsibility, and love for nature. For her, even the smallest actions can lead to significant changes.
