Hieu Van Le, a former Vietnam refugee, is now South Australia’s governor. But this distinction didn’t come easy. In fact, Mr. Le had to endure discrimination and other anti-immigrant experiences when he first arrived in Australia 36 years ago. But through sheer hardwork and determination, he achieved his long-time dream “to live in a peaceful, safe and free country and to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.”
Photo by http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/refugee-favourite-for-new-governor/story-e6frfku0-1226169265804
Le worked as Lieutenant-Governor starting in 2007, as an accountant until he reached retirement in 2009 and as Officer of the Order of Australia in 2010. Currently, he holds the position of Deputy. His long-time dedication of bringing service to his community gained him enough credence from his workmates and friends to believe that he is the ideal person for the position and that he will bring justice to it. Le will replace Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce who in turn will be recognized for his achievements especially in the economic and social sector of South Australia. Scarce became patron to more than 200 charities and organizations across the state. Le’s current position of Lieutenant-Governor will be filled in by Cancer Council SA Chief Brenda Wilson.
“With nothing but an invisible suitcase filled with dreams” at first, Hieu Van Le now holds a very prestigious position in a very important place. He is still overwheled by the honor but he also believes that it is the traditional quiet and simple characteristics of the Vietnamese people that made them accepted into the Australian society through time and even be entrusted with a very delicate position. He believes that this is a clear proof of a growing sense of acceptance and equality among nations today. Hieu Van Le is the first Asian migrant to hold the gubernatorial position in the history of South Australia and will start playing the role on September.