The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) met Ms. Ánh in the morning after her overnight ride from Nghệ An to Hanoi. She was there to attend the press conference for "Miss Crescent Moon," a pageant for women with disabilities across Vietnam. If you were just chatting with her, it would be hard to tell that Ánh, with her confidence and ever-present smile, was born with a physical disability. Her legs remain weak despite multiple surgeries

"From kindergarten to second grade, I was carefree and never thought I was any different from the other kids. But after second grade, I began to feel self-conscious and more isolated because there was almost no one like me at school. I finished middle school and had to stop. Ever since grade two, I always needed someone to take me to and from school. In high school, the distance was too far and no one could take me, so I had no choice but to quit. […] After quitting school, I was never able to overcome that insecurity. I stayed home within four walls and didn’t go outside because, back then, I didn’t have a three-wheeled motorbike.”

That long distance forced Ánh to give up her education and intensified her self-doubt. The distance kept her within four walls — a space that seemed to protect her body but, in fact, imprisoned her carefree and cheerful nature. Because of that distance, when asked about her dreams and what would make her happiest, Ánh’s answer was simple: a three-wheeled motorbike.

The motorbike opened a new door for her — it became her legs, taking her to many places, allowing her to meet and connect with communities all over the country. It also became her tool for earning a living and raising her young daughter.

“In the past, I dreamed of having a three-wheeled motorbike so I could go out and find a suitable job. My family wasn’t well off, and I had a heart condition, so my father strongly objected. […] But I wanted to be independent and find a way to support my child.”

So Ánh borrowed money to buy a used electric tricycle for just over 3 million VND (around $125). With it, she started small — selling sesame rice crackers — and gradually expanded her inventory. Once she got used to trading, she realized the electric bike wouldn’t last long, so she borrowed more money to buy a motorized three-wheeler for going to the market and selling goods. […] Starting with very little, she slowly built something bigger and bigger.

With her determination, Ánh proved to her family — and to herself — that she could be independent and rise above her circumstances. No longer confined by walls, she broke through prejudice and conquered new milestones, from joining local disability associations to exploring big cities on her own. She beams with pride when saying she’s part of the community of people with disabilities and that she’s happy to be recognized, to have a platform to help others like herself.

The community brought her opportunities to spread more positivity. Friends encouraged her to join the Photovoice “The Loving Lens” contest, organized by UNFPA. Her entry was simple and concise but left a strong impression with its message of empowerment:

“After many training sessions, I became much more confident and affirmed that I can do anything that non-disabled people can do. I have equality and confidence — I can overcome all difficulties. My fellow people with disabilities, let’s be strong and confident together!”

Beyond her joy in society, Ánh finds profound happiness in her small home, where her daughter is always by her side and proud of her, no matter how others may view her.

“When I asked my daughter if she ever felt embarrassed about me, she said no. She said she’s proud of me. She wants me to live with her until she gets married, until I grow old. Hearing her say that makes me happy. [...] Having my daughter and my motorbike are the two biggest motivations in my life. Now, I just hope to live long enough to see her graduate, find a job, start a family, and find her own happiness.”

Overcoming physical limitations and social stigma, Ánh — and many others like her — continue moving forward with determination and resilience. Their “luggage” includes not just a tricycle, but also self-belief, independence, and the support of family. They are working to their fullest potential, being parents, and raising proud children.

When asked about her wishes for herself and her community, Ánh shared:

“I hope that everyone can be independent and have their own happiness. If someone wants an electric wheelchair, they should be able to have one to stroll around the city. I hope people with disabilities can get jobs, integrate with society, and reach their dreams. Some want to become mothers, to get married, to start families. I hope their families respect their choices. People with disabilities need motivation from their families — words of encouragement.”

As for the general public, she added: “I hope everyone thinks equally of people with disabilities and doesn't assume we can’t do the things we want to do. I hope people understand, empathize, and help create conditions for us to rise.”

Ánh’s wish is shared by many people with disabilities.

Those with mobility challenges dream of a motorbike.

Those who are deaf dream of hearing aids.

And so on…

Comprehensive and inclusive approaches to disability are essential to allow people with disabilities to integrate, be independent, and pursue what they want — whether it’s working or becoming a parent.

This article is part of the “WeDecide” series by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in observance of Vietnam's Day for Persons with Disabilities (April 18). UNFPA supports the right of everyone — including persons with disabilities — to make their own decisions and strives toward a just and equal society where no one is left behind.

About UNFPA's mission:

UNFPA – the United Nations Population Fund – is the UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health. Our mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

About the UNFPA WeDecide programme:

WeDecide is a global initiative by UNFPA, supported by the Government of Spain, to promote human rights and social inclusion for women and youth with disabilities — especially in areas like sexual and reproductive health, and prevention of gender-based violence.

The program aims to create rights-based interventions aligned with international standards and guidelines, ensuring the direct participation of people with disabilities in the design and implementation process.It particularly focuses on women and girls with disabilities, who often face significant barriers in accessing health services, education, protection, and information.

Through WeDecide, UNFPA works to ensure everyone has the right to make decisions about their own bodies and lives — free from discrimination and violence.