Nga Vương-Sandoval

Nga Vương-Sandoval’s life and career are characterized by a deep commitment to human rights and social justice advocacy, particularly for forcibly displaced persons and underrepresented communities. Her lived expertise as a refugee has shaped her dedication to addressing the challenges faced by those who have been displaced from their homes and homelands.

Her professional journey includes significant roles in local, national, and international advocacy. Notably, she managed the first US initiative focused on ensuring that forcibly displaced individuals have representation in global decision-making roles. Her expertise spans various areas, such as immigration policy, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, intelligence analysis, regulatory compliance, and judicial, and criminal investigations.

Her contributions extend into the academia realm where she served as adjunct faculty at two universities. Her expertise and insights are demonstrated through her academic book reviews that have were published by Oxford University Press.

Nga’s multifaceted contributions extend beyond her professional roles. She has served as adjunct faculty at two universities, sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation. Her TEDx talk titled “Assimilation is Colonization” reflects her perspective on assimilation issues and challenges prevailing narratives

In her advocacy work, Nga has taken on advisory roles for organizations like the Refugee Advisory Group for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for the Consultations on Resettlement and Complementary Pathways convening in Geneva, Switzerland. She serves as Vice-Chair for Program Services for Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Board of Directors. Nga is a Noble Ambassador for the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation and a founding member and public speaker with the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau. She serves as a refugee representative at the UNHCR Annual Tripartite Consultation on Resettlement in Geneva, Switzerland.

Nga’s dedication has been recognized through various awards and honors. UNHCR spotlighted her in a Badge of Honor feature for AAPI History Month, and she played a role in advocating for increased refugee admissions by meeting with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. She received the 2021 Refugee Congress Excellence Award, the 2021 Colorado Attorney General’s Award for “Outstanding Community Service,” and was recognized as one of the “Five Inspiring Refugee Women” for International Women’s Day by USA for UNHCR.

Her impact extends into the cultural sphere, where she was honored with a mural by renowned artist Thomas Evans (I Am Detour). Denver Westword recognized her as one of the “Ten People to Watch in Denver in 2023.” Nga’s efforts led to the establishment of Lunar New Year as an observed Colorado state holiday through the Lunar New Year Allies Advisory Group, which she founded and chaired. The Anti-Defamation League presented her with the Civil Rights Award in 2023, and she was recognized by the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum with banners featuring her image in downtown Colorado Springs during AAPI History Month.

The Denver Nuggets further recognized Nga by inviting her to take the “First Shot” of the night at their inaugural Lunar New Year game. Through her advocacy, leadership, and tireless efforts, Nga continues to make a significant impact on the lives of forcibly displaced persons, underrepresented communities, and communities at large.