Some wait for the path to clear, and then there are those who clear the path themselves. Entrepreneur Duong Thu Huong belongs to the latter. From her roots in international education and venture capital to her tenure as CEO of Forbes Vietnam and now as Chairwoman of the Vietnam-Thai Chamber of Commerce, her career is a study in relentless forward motion.
She is a woman who chooses to march like a warrior—accepting the collisions, the doubts, and the invisible pressures required to assert one’s value. We sat down with Ms. Huong to discuss the evolution of media, the definition of success, and why, amidst constant change, one’s core values must remain immovable.
LAVYON Magazine: Ms. Huong, in a world where many choose stability, you have consistently chosen the path of greatest resistance to build your career. What drives that choice?
Duong Thu Huong: Modern women often practice a form of reticence; many are willing to step back so their partners or families can shine. But my philosophy has always been: if I have the ability and the ambition, why not step forward? I chose to live like a warrior. I recall the early days of bringing IDG Ventures to Vietnam. It was a grueling period because the concept of venture capital was virtually unknown here. There were nights I slept only four hours. But I was driven by the realization that we only have one youth. If I didn’t give my all then, I wouldn’t have the courage to do so later. My biggest motivation is simply the desire to live fully within my own choices.
LAVYON: You were the force behind bringing a titan like Forbes to Vietnam. What was the weight of that responsibility?
Duong Thu Huong: Forbes is a global monument to business journalism, but transplanting that legacy into Vietnam was a complex challenge. There was skepticism. I understood that in this industry, accuracy is not a goal; it is a requirement. The pressure wasn’t just about revenue or branding—it was about trust. I had to prove that Forbes Vietnam could uphold the global spirit of the brand while reflecting the local context with honesty and depth. It was a journey that required absolute steadfastness.
LAVYON: After all these milestones, how do you define success?
Duong Thu Huong: Life is dualistic. For every action, there will be praise, but there will also be criticism. I accept that. I am proud because I did what I believed was right. However, for me, internal satisfaction is only half the equation. True success requires recognition—from society, from the professional community, and from oneself. When you can look back without a single regret, that is when success is complete.
LAVYON: You have witnessed the media landscape shift from print to digital. How do you perceive this evolution?
Duong Thu Huong: In the past, the printed newspaper was a cherished ritual. People savored every page, appreciating long-form, analytical writing. Today, the digital era demands speed and brevity; the younger generation has less patience for the academic. However, a change in format does not equate to a loss of value. While delivery methods evolve, the human need for foundational knowledge remains. Whether print or online, media retains its critical role as long as it upholds sustainable values. We must update with the times, but the core truth and quality must remain unchanged. Everything may evolve, but it must orbit around that fixed center.
LAVYON: In an era of misinformation, where do you see the responsibility of the media?
Duong Thu Huong: We live in a time where the line between truth and fabrication is dangerously thin. We see heartbreaking consequences of misinformation, such as the human trafficking scams in Cambodia. The media bears a massive burden to verify, warn, and guide the public. But this responsibility extends beyond the newsroom; it belongs to families and friends to share accurate information. That is how a society protects itself.
LAVYON: Does the rise of AI threaten the human element in your field?
Duong Thu Huong: AI is a powerful accelerator, but a tool is only as valuable as the purpose it serves. No matter how advanced technology becomes, it cannot replicate the nuance of human thought, honesty, or depth. AI can support us, but it cannot replace the intrinsic value that human creativity generates.
LAVYON: On a lighter note, what is your take on the concept of “Ladies First” in modern society?
Duong Thu Huong: “Ladies First” should be interpreted through the lens of spirit, not rigid rule. If a man holds a door or carries a bag, it is a gesture of courtesy to be appreciated. However, respect should not be trapped in formality. A lack of these gestures does not define a person’s character, nor does their presence define equality.
LAVYON: What is your message to Vietnamese women striving to balance tradition and modernity?
Duong Thu Huong: Vietnamese women are gifted with an innate gentleness and an immense capacity for endurance. However, endurance should not be confused with resignation. We must be flexible—maintaining our identity while clearly understanding our rights. You can be a devoted caretaker of your family, but that does not mean accepting a lack of appreciation. Women may not always match men in physical strength, but our stamina—our resilience—is boundless.
LAVYON: You recently took on the role of Chairwoman of the Vietnam-Thai Chamber of Commerce. What is your vision for this position?
Duong Thu Huong: This is a responsibility I find deeply engaging. Back by the Vietnam Ambassy in Thailand & Thai Government , our mission is to foster substantive bilateral investment. We aim to create a platform where both nations can learn from one another’s strengths—whether it is Thailand’s agricultural branding or Vietnam’s export capabilities. It is about building a sustainable future together.
LAVYON: Thank you, Ms. Duong Thu Huong, for your insights. We wish you continued success on your journey.
By Choco & Fiona