Cultural stories through design: Hoang Thi Hoa’s journey from dream to reality

Born in Thai Nguyen province, Hoang Thi Hoa, a young woman of the San Diu ethnic minority, has written an inspiring story of resilience, passion, and achievement. Graduating with a GPA of 3.66/4.0, she not only earned the title of valedictorian in Fashion Design at Hanoi University of Industry (HaUI) but also distinguished herself as both the top entrant and the top graduate of her cohort - an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects four years of perseverance and growth.

When asked why she chose Fashion Design, Hoa’s answer was simple: “I love drawing and I love creating beauty.” Yet behind those words lies a much deeper ambition - her dream since childhood to transform passion into a lifelong career, not only to design beautiful clothes but also to tell the cultural stories of Vietnam through every line, cut, and detail.

Hoang Thi Hoa (left) with her academic advisor at the defense of her graduation project

The path, however, was far from easy. In the beginning, she struggled with sewing machines, uneven stitches, and constant technical errors that often left her disheartened. But each challenge became an opportunity to grow. What kept her moving forward was the desire to see her ideas transformed into tangible garments made by her own hands. Step by step, through patience, practice, and determination, she mastered her craft and laid the foundation for the success she celebrates today.

For Hoa, university life was not confined to classrooms and textbooks; it was also a place for exploration and connection. A defining moment in her journey was volunteering at Vietnam International Fashion Week 2024, where she witnessed the dynamics of a professional fashion event firsthand. Immersed in the intense and inspiring atmosphere, she learned about professionalism, adaptability, and the passion of those who truly live for fashion. That experience, as she describes, fueled her determination to pursue the path of a designer with renewed energy.

Currently, Hoa works for a children’s fashion brand, where she continues to refine her skills and accumulate industry experience. Her long-term goal is clear: to become a fashion designer with her own signature style, capable of bringing her creations to both domestic and international markets.

Hoa’s academic journey was also supported by HaUI’s commitment to equity and excellence. As the valedictorian of her major, she was awarded a full-tuition scholarship for the entire program. For a student from the San Diu community, this was not only recognition of her talent but also a powerful source of motivation, reinforcing her belief that education can open doors and fuel ambition. She often speaks of this opportunity as both a gift and a responsibility - to rise to the challenge, work harder, and make the most of her passion.

Reflecting on her student years, Hoa shares a heartfelt message: “University life is the most beautiful period of youth. Live it to the fullest, study with all your heart, and never limit yourself within the boundaries of lectures. Experiences, failures, connections, and challenges - all of these will become priceless lessons that help us grow. Knowledge is important, but the relationships and experiences you build today are the foundation that will accompany you throughout your journey.”

Hoang Thi Hoa’s story is not only about academic excellence but also about courage, persistence, and the power of passion. From a young girl with a dream to a valedictorian ready to step into the fashion industry, she represents the vitality and creativity of HaUI’s students and the promise of Vietnam’s next generation of designers.