The University of Western Australia will help celebrate five decades of diplomacy between Australia and Vietnam when it hosts the Vietnamese Lotus Light fashion show this Sunday 3 December.

“Vietnamese Lotus Light stands as a powerful symbol of cultural exchange, unity and the enduring bonds between Vietnam and Australia.”

Pro Vice-Chancellor Global Engagement, Professor Jennifer Howell

Sponsored by UWA’s Global Engagement Office, the night will commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Australia – and celebrate the beauty, traditions and creativity of both nations through fashion.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Global Engagement, Professor Jennifer Howell, said the event at iconic Winthrop Hall promised to be more than a fashion show.

“Vietnamese Lotus Light stands as a powerful symbol of cultural exchange, unity and the enduring bonds between Vietnam and Australia,” Professor Howell said.

Organised by the Vietnamese Consulate in Perth, Vietnam Television and Fashion brand Eleven S, the event is expected to be attended by 300 people and will be broadcast nationally across Vietnam and though top-tier fashion outlets.

UWA Global Engagement Manager Hannah Vu and PhD candidate Larry Huynh will MC the show, and six students and alumni will join professional models on the catwalk to showcase gowns by Vietnamese designer Hoa (Mary) Tran.

Image: Creations by "Eleven S" fashion designer, Hoa (Mary) Tran.

Professor Howell said more than 160 students from Vietnam were currently enrolled at UWA, and the celebration of culture was part of strengthening ties between the two countries.

“UWA is committed to embracing diversity and fostering a deeper understanding of different cultures,” she said.

“Our support for this event is a wonderful opportunity to enhance the richness of our community, as well as raising UWA’s profile extensively throughout Vietnam."