Đào Ngọc Mai Thy: From a Small Spark of Faith to a Journey Across the Seas

Beneath the radiant sun of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a young girl named Đào Ngọc Mai Thy grew up amidst the tranquil village roads of Long An, never imagining that one day she would shoulder the responsibilities of a diplomatic officer, representing her country on the global stage. Graduating as valedictorian of the English program, Cohort 41, at the Diplomatic Academy, Mai Thy now serves as a specialist at the Department of State Protocol and Foreign Translation under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She is currently on assignment in Norway, supporting her diplomat spouse. From a shy, hesitant freshman stepping into the bustling capital, Mai Thy has continually pushed beyond her limits, gradually emerging as a confident, mature, and resilient professional. Her story is a quietly powerful reminder that sometimes, a small decision can unlock an extraordinary journey.

The Dream Called “Diplomacy”

Mai Thy’s path began on the sun-drenched roads of Long An, where an 18-year-old girl had yet to leave the familiarity of her hometown. Diplomacy was not a childhood dream but rather an unexpected calling—discovered almost by chance. “It was only near the application deadline that I learned about the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam through my mother’s teacher,” she recalls. The name “Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam,” shimmering with a hint of glamour, sparked her curiosity, slowly blossoming into affection and eventually a firm decision to commit to this institution. Every journey needs a beginning; for Mai Thy, it was a heartfelt, intuitive choice that marked the start of a vibrant youth.

Moving from Long An to Hanoi was more than a 1,600-kilometer shift; it was a profound cultural and experiential leap. On her first arrival in the capital, the confident and outgoing demeanor of her peers unsettled the naturally reserved Mai Thy. Early on, she did not set grand ambitions or aim for dazzling achievements. “At first, I didn’t expect too much of myself. I just wanted to study well and learn from my teachers and friends,” she shares. Yet it was precisely from these modest hopes that she gradually found her strength and began to author her own remarkable story under the Academy’s roof.

Climbing New Heights Step by Step

Mai Thy’s progress did not come from grand master plans but from daily perseverance and quiet determination. Within the Academy, she began to uncover herself, shed her shyness, and grow into someone who could listen attentively and articulate her views. Confronted with a new environment, instead of withdrawing, she chose to challenge herself by joining DAV’s Leaders 2014—her first significant step beyond comfort zones. “That was when I first stepped out of my safe space. I hadn’t participated in such activities back in high school, so I wanted to test myself,” she reflects. Later, joining the Student Union became the defining mark of her four years, offering opportunities to engage with passionate faculty and forge lasting friendships.

Like many students, her university life was not always smooth. She encountered challenges but viewed them as chances for self-discovery. The courage to overcome personal boundaries through initiatives like DAV’s Leaders marked a milestone—a gateway to new experiences. “Every activity since then, no matter how difficult, has been an opportunity to learn more about myself,” Mai Thy notes.

Thanks to relentless effort, she achieved excellence academically and in extracurricular endeavors. Behind these accomplishments lies a steadfast journey nurtured by familial love and trust. “My parents sacrificed a lot for me to be where I am today, and that drives me to give my best. Moreover, the care and expectations from my teachers motivate me to prove myself worthy of their trust.” The sincere support from family, mentors, and friends served as a steady flame, empowering her to advance confidently toward new summits.

Looking back on her youth, Mai Thy affirms: “From a timid student unsure of herself, reluctant to speak her mind or present in front of crowds, the Diplomatic Academy enabled me to make significant progress and become a better version of myself.” The Academy was her launchpad—a place that pushed her beyond comfort and revealed a stronger self. It is this conviction that makes her believe the Academy is an ideal environment for anyone eager to grow and explore their potential.

Holding onto Faith and Kindness—Seeds from the Academy Still Blooming

Graduating in 2018 as valedictorian, Mai Thy was directly recruited into the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and assigned to the Department of State Protocol and Foreign Translation—a fortuitous opportunity she never anticipated as a student. “It was all destiny. Being recruited and working in this department is a blessing I deeply cherish,” she humbly reflects. This serendipity opened a new chapter where she could further embody the values nurtured at the Academy and continue her dedicated service.

Her greatest professional challenge came shortly after starting at the Ministry—just 20 days in, she was tasked with supporting a high-level delegation in Thailand, serving as interpreter for the 40th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-40). “When I was assigned to interpret for the former National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyễn Thị Kim Ngân during a diplomatic reception, I was nervous because I lacked extensive language and diplomatic experience. I tried to stay calm, and fortunately, I completed the assignment smoothly,” Mai Thy recalls. Though still inexperienced, this early trial accelerated her growth, boosting her confidence and resolve for the demanding diplomatic path ahead.

After seven years in the field, her greatest motivation remains the faith and expectations of those around her—family, leaders, and colleagues. “Everyone believes I can do more and better, so I strive to meet their hopes.” Her drive transcends personal passion or ambition; it is nourished by the trust entrusted to her. Working not just for herself but also for those who support her imbues every effort with deeper meaning. This is how she transforms belief into action, and expectation into enduring motivation.

In a constantly changing society, what anchors Mai Thy is not grand ideals but two simple yet profound values: kindness and discipline. She once read a statement that resonated deeply: “I may not be the best, but I will be one of the most disciplined.” For her, discipline extends beyond professional rules; it is the foundation of her personal life. Consistency and earnestness have helped her persist toward goals in any context. Alongside discipline, kindness serves as her moral compass—not because others are kind first, but because it is the way she believes life should be lived. Kindness requires no conditions or distinctions and should be spread in every circumstance. Together, kindness and discipline are not just guiding principles but essential qualities that forge resilience in turbulent times.

To students still searching for direction, Mai Thy offers heartfelt advice: “The most important thing is to have confidence—trust in what you can do and in the core values you’ve built over time.” She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open heart, always ready to absorb new ideas and learn from those around you. Behind every person lies a story full of lessons. It is this combination of confidence and humility that will serve as a compass for young people—not only to achieve life’s milestones but to discover the passion and true meaning of their journey.

Mai Thy’s path has not only been marked by shining successes but also by many hurdles. Yet, through inner strength and faith, she has carved her unique road and shines in her own brilliant way. From a shy girl to a confident diplomat, she has quietly amassed knowledge, skills, and courage to become a vital part of Vietnam’s diplomatic corps. Her story is proof that one need not start with grand dreams—simply daring to step forward, to believe, and to live kindly each day is enough to make a journey radiant in its own right.

Minh Phuong