How She Dares

Director's Statements

By Zoonie Nguyen

“How She Dares” was born from a conviction that stories of women’s courage and resilience matter now more than ever. As a Vietnamese-Canadian who has fled war, rebuilt a life in Montreal, and redefined success after personal crises, I have seen firsthand how women—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—must navigate immense challenges to carve out their own spaces in the world. Too often, these stories of struggle, triumph, and transformation go untold. This film exists to change that: to amplify the voices of women entrepreneurs who dare to lead, to inspire those considering bold steps in their own lives, and to spark vital conversations about the barriers women face and the communities that help us rise above them.

“How She Dares” is not just a documentary; it’s a movement—one that aims to empower, connect, and inspire women and their allies everywhere. By shining a light on the unique journeys of women who have turned adversity into impact, we hope to show that success is possible despite systemic and cultural obstacles, and to encourage everyone watching to find their own courage to dare. After the premiere in Montreal, I was touched beyond words by the numerous messages I received. Many shared how the film inspired new beginnings, deeper reflections, and meaningful conversations between mothers and daughters. Some saw their own stories reflected on screen; others found the courage to take the next step in their journey.

One message, in particular, touched me deeply—a mother who attended with her daughter wrote:

“I can only imagine the countless hours, the heart, and the dedication you poured into creating this documentary. It shows in every frame. I feel so grateful that our paths have crossed in this lifetime—you are a true blessing to this world. The stories you shared were deeply moving, but the highlight for me was seeing your special bond with your daughter, Maggie. Witnessing that moment, alongside my daughter, who was so touched and inspired, made it even more meaningful. After the premiere, I found myself reflecting deeply on the next chapter of my own life. I may not have all the answers yet, but you inspired me to take a beautiful first step: today, I’m writing a list of 12 new experiences and places I’ve never been, things I’ve never tried—and committing to doing at least one each month. I wanted to share this with you, as a way of putting it out into the universe.”

Her words capture the heart of this project. “How She Dares” is not just about my story or the stories of the women I met—it’s about every woman who sees herself in these journeys, who finds the courage to speak, to dream, and to dare. My hope is that this film continues to light sparks, to open doors, and to remind us all that when one woman dares, she inspires others to do the same.

By Victoria Bacani

There is a special image I have kept close to me since the moment I saw it; sometimes I make it my lock screen so it’s visible everytime I look at my phone, other times it’s a printed copy that hangs right above my computer screen when I work. It’s a photo of a young girl, no older than 18, wearing oversized layers of winter garments amidst a cold snowy scenery.

The photo is of my mother experiencing winter for the first time when she had just immigrated to Canada alone.

I like to keep this photo as a reminder of my mother’s courage to change her life, to pursue potential and opportunity, to uproot herself and start anew—despite all her fears and anxieties and insecurities. Ultimately, it’s a reminder of my mother’s bravery encapsulated in a photo that tells me I can do it—I can do anything—despite the doubts and fears, whether they come from the outside or if they come from myself.

When I first met Zoonie, I saw not only my mother in her—I saw myself in her too. Perhaps that is what drew me so strongly to her and this project. We are women facing adversities and doubts everyday but who push through regardless. “How She Dares” is about bringing to light those stories of resilience, perseverance and bravery. It’s about highlighting women’s strength to dare despite circumstances. I think the importance of this film is that it can become what my mother’s photo at 18 means to me—a success story that inspires me to champion my own life. I hope that anyone who watches this documentary, especially women, women entrepreneurs, immigrant women, and mothers and daughters, witness the bravery of the women on the screen and see themselves reflected back. That they then feel inspired to dare.