For 84 years, generations of members of the Ho Chi Minh Young Pioneer Organization have grown, trained, and contributed to the revolutionary cause of Vietnam. To celebrate the founding anniversary of the Organization (May 15, 1941 – May 15, 2025), the Vietnamese Women’s Museum proudly presents excerpts from the diary of Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong, who, as a young girl, expressed her excitement when she first wore the red scarf.

“I remember when I was in first grade, I saw older girls wearing the red scarf. I wished for one so much – even dreaming about it. Then, that secret wish came true.”

Joining the Organization was one of the most memorable moments of her childhood. The feelings of nervousness, happiness, and pride stayed in her mind: “The evening of January 9, 1955, was unforgettable. I was restless all night… Even now, when I recall it, I feel like I’m reliving that moment.”

When remembering the moment she became a member, Ms. Phuong not only felt joy but also a deep sense of responsibility. She thought about how to live up to her role and contribute to building a strong organization during what she called her “golden time” as a member.

“What should I do? To be worthy of this golden time. Every moment as a member carries a great responsibility. I must give my best to build the Organization.”

When she made mistakes, she took responsibility and motivated herself to improve.

“Why didn’t I want to wear the badge? I thought I wasn’t worthy. But that was wrong. At the meeting, the leaders said anyone who doesn’t wear the badge is avoiding their duty. Now I understand: the badge reminds me to be a good example. I only forgot to wear it because I wasn’t doing my duties well. I must be brave and confident!”

Her diary also shows the excitement of a young member on the Organization’s birthday:

“Today is the Organization’s birthday! This is my happiest day. The Organization is one year older, and so am I. My time as a member is too short… I want to put all my feelings into building the Organization.”

She knew she still had many shortcomings and needed to try harder to become a well-rounded member. Her goal was to become a Youth Union member, which she always dreamed of.

“To become a Youth Union member soon, I must train myself not only to study and work well but also to develop good ethics, a clear mindset, and the courage to face mistakes honestly. This is the hope of every young person growing up – to try their best.”

Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong wrote this diary from February 3, 1960, to October 23, 1966. It became a close companion throughout her life. To preserve the memory of Vietnamese women, she donated the diary to the Vietnam Women’s Museum.

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About Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong

Nguyen Thi Phuong was born in 1946 in Dai Hoa village, Trieu Binh commune, Triệu Phong district, Quang Tri province. As a child, she studied at Southern Students’ Schools in Nghe An and Hai Phong. In 1965, she was admitted to study at a university in China but returned to Vietnam in 1966 due to the Cultural Revolution. She enrolled at Hanoi Medical University and graduated in 1972. After graduation, she worked in the Pediatrics Department of Hanoi Medical University. In 1984, she studied for her postgraduate degree in Czechoslovakia and returned in 1989 to continue her career. She retired in 2007 after many years of treating children, teaching, writing pediatric textbooks, and participating in research. Her life journey shows continuous dedication – from being a Young Pioneer to becoming a Youth Union member and a respected Party member. In 2002, she was honored with the title of Associate Professor for her contributions to medicine.

Cuốn nhật ký và trang viết của bác sĩ Nguyễn Thị Phượng