WHY WE DO IT

Founded in 2018 by Vietnamese-Canadian Linh Phan, Hidden Saigon was created to challenge and expand how Vietnam is understood and represented on a global stage—one person at a time. Our mission is to share authentic, contemporary stories that reflect the Vietnam of today, moving beyond familiar and often oversimplified narratives of war, phở, and bánh mì.

​

At the heart of our work is the belief that the most powerful stories are told by the people who live them. We prioritize community-led storytelling, giving local voices the space, agency, and tools to represent themselves on their own terms. Through this approach, we aim to reveal the layered, dynamic, and evolving realities of Vietnam, capturing its true spirit through lived experience rather than external interpretation.

​

HOW WE DO IT

Over the past 18 years, we have built deep and lasting relationships within Vietnam’s creative and cultural communities. Our work spans media, music, nightlife, food and beverage, NGOs, and the arts, allowing us to engage across multiple sectors with insight and credibility.

​

By operating with mutual respect, shared values, and a long-term commitment to the community, we are able to form meaningful partnerships with local businesses, artists, cultural practitioners, and everyday residents. These trusted relationships grant us access to stories, spaces, and collaborations that are often inaccessible to outside organizations, enabling more genuine and nuanced engagement.

​

WHAT WE DO

Hidden Saigon curates a diverse range of experiences and creative outputs designed to connect people with Vietnam’s contemporary culture. These include immersive journeys, hands-on workshops, public events, lectures, commercial collaborations, and original media production.

​

Alongside these offerings, we actively host and support community-focused initiatives such as independent Vietnamese film screenings, panel discussions, talks, and local marketplaces. These gatherings not only showcase creative talent but also help nurture and strengthen the relationships that form the foundation of our work. Through all that we do, we strive to create platforms for exchange, understanding, and long-term cultural connection.