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Winnipeg Tailor Honoured for His Philanthropic Work

Winnipeg Tailor Honoured for His Philanthropic Work
Tam Nguyen, surrounding by his family, posing with his three medals. (CityNews)

Many Winnipeggers know Tam Nguyen as a tailor in the city, but there’s much more behind the man in the sharp suit. Nguyen, 70, recently received a Coronation Medal from King Charles because of his philanthropic work in Canada and Vietnam. Nguyen has also been awarded the Queen’s Jubilee and the Canada 150 medal.

Nguyen’s journey to Canada was long and difficult, as he escaped Vietnam by boat during wartime, navigating treacherous waters for five days. While on the boat, he made a promise in prayer. If he survived, he vowed to dedicate his life to helping the people of his homeland. And Nguyen has truly honoured that commitment by building schools for children.

Founded in 1995, Tam’s charity, Canadians Helping Kids in Vietnam gave thousands of children and families the chance at a better life, building 14 schools over its 25-year run before it was shut down in 2020. Tam also led medical and dental missions, including one where he ensured every child at a school received fitted sandals. His generosity extends to Winnipeg, where he has raised funds for various communities and organizations over the years.

When Canadian Senator Flordeliz “Gigi” Osler received medals to give out, her good friend Nguyen was one of the first people she thought of. Senator Osler met Tam in his shop on Ellice Avenue and has kept in touch with him since. Tam celebrated the special day surrounded by family and friends, serving fresh homemade spring rolls to his guests.

Source: CityNews