Vovinam martial arts spreads the power to protect women through the Guardian Girls program

The program had the participation of 30 women aged 18-45. Under the direct guidance of Dr. Bui Dang Hong Nhung - Head of GGV Training Board, along with the World Vovinam Federation performance team, the students were exposed to many basic self-defense techniques that are easy to apply in dangerous situations.

Guardian Girls is a global initiative led by Guardian Girls International (GGI) that combines martial arts and community education to combat gender-based violence. In partnership with the World Vovinam Federation (WVVF), GGI has adapted the techniques of Vovinam – a traditional Vietnamese martial art – to create an effective, accessible training program for women. At the same time, the initiative also promotes broader advocacy activities on gender equality.

Photo caption — Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Naoki Ito speaks at the program.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Tran Van My - Chief of Vovinam Viet Vo Dao, emphasized: "Guardian Girls Vovinam not only provides self-defense skills, but more importantly, helps women gain calmness, confidence and courage. This is a humanitarian movement, contributing to affirming the right of women and girls to live safely and be respected."

He also affirmed the responsibility of the Vovinam community in accompanying women, equipping them not only with self-defense tools but also with confidence and self-control, so that Vovinam can become a “mental and physical shield” for every community.

Previously, on the evening of September 16, GGI, WVVF, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Embassy of Japan officially announced the Guardian Girls Vovinam Project. Vietnam became the first Southeast Asian country with an international martial arts federation to participate in the global Guardian Girls movement. This project has been implemented in 22 countries on 5 continents.

At the launching ceremony, Mr. Shin Koyamada – Co-founder, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GGI and Dr. Mai Huu Tin – President of the World Vovinam Federation signed a memorandum of understanding to deploy GGV in Vietnam and internationally. Mr. Shin Koyamada shared: “Starting from Vietnam – the homeland of Vovinam – this journey is not only about martial arts, but also the path to affirming one’s own values and the freedom to live without fear”.

Dr. Mai Huu Tin emphasized that WVVF is proud to spread the principles of equality, safety and respect through the project, while bringing Vovinam to serve the community in a humane and profound way.

UNFPA Representative in Vietnam, Mr. Matt Jackson, assessed GGV as a clear demonstration of a sustainable solution in preventing gender-based violence based on indigenous culture. He said: “Vovinam helps women and girls gain confidence, practical skills and self-reliance. This is an innovative initiative, implemented in coordination with the community and international partners.”

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Naoki Ito affirmed that Japan is always committed to promoting gender equality and protecting women and girls. He said that in addition to accompanying GGV, Japan has supported the establishment of three “Sunshine House” Centers in Thanh Hoa, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, providing support services to women who have suffered violence.

With its launch in Hanoi, Guardian Girls Vovinam marks a turning point in making traditional Vietnamese martial arts a global tool, contributing to building a safe and equal society where women and girls are empowered and protected.