Within the framework of the World Cultural Festival in Hanoi 2025, the exhibition booth of the Ukrainian Embassy is one of the highlights that attracts special attention from visitors.
In addition to traditional cultural, culinary and fashion colors, visitors are also impressed by the image of a Ukrainian guy fluently speaking Vietnamese, the blooming introduction of his country - that is Chan Sondio, who has been attached to Vietnam for over 25 years.
Born in Ukraine, Sondio's father is Vietnamese. From a young age, he had heard his father tell stories and listen to music in Vietnamese, so this language became familiar to him from a young age.
In 1990, Sondio once visited Vietnam. And that trip sent him a special affection for the S-shaped land.
In 2001, Sondio decided to return to Vietnam to study at university.
After graduating, in 2010 he officially worked at the Ukrainian Embassy in Hanoi, currently in charge of the Consular Department. For him, this is not only a job but also a bridge connecting two countries and two cultures that have blended in themselves.
When asked about Vietnam in reality and within his imagination, Sondio said: That is something I can say a lot about. Vietnam has changed so quickly that it is unexpected. Infrastructure, transportation, living environment, all have developed remarkably. I feel very proud to witness that process every day.
He considered himself lucky to have lived in the period of strong transformation of the country he called "second homeland".
For more than two decades in Vietnam, Sondio has set foot in most regions. He loves the diversity of Vietnamese culture and cuisine - from the North to the South, each place has its own identity.
I really like to eat well, and in Vietnam, every region has its own unique dishes. If I could only choose one dish, I would accept it, because wherever I go, I have to try the local dishes and any dish is very delicious, he said with a smile.
Participating in the 2025 World Cultural Festival, Sondio and the Ukrainian delegation carefully prepared for their country's exhibition booth.
In addition, Sondio shared that the Ukrainian delegation participated in almost all of the festival's categories: from traditional food stalls, folk music performances to Vyshyvanka performances - typical hand-embroidered costumes with different patterns depending on the region.
"This year's event is truly magnificent and meaningful. We want to bring the image of a friendly, brilliant, traditional Ukraine ready to interact with international friends, Sondio shared.
Despite being busy with work, Sondio still maintains the habit of calling home in Ukraine every day.
I am a family member, so no matter where I am, talking to my parents and siblings is indispensable, he said.
The technological connection bridge helps him maintain the love between the two homelands - one side is the place where the navel is buried, the other side is the place where he grew up and spent most of his life.
In addition to Chan Sondio's story, the Festival also brings together many other interesting characters and cultural stories, where visitors come to meet, interact and feel the colorful life of the world right in the heart of Hanoi.
The 2025 World Cultural Festival taking place from now until October 12 at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an opportunity for the public to explore the beauty of global culture - a vivid testament to the power of culture in connecting people, overcoming all borders.
