Duong is someone I considered as my mentor even though he is never entitled so. The first time I know about him was at a convenient store next to my undergraduate college in Vietnam. Back then everyone was talking about him because he was the champion of Young Marketers competition and was selected into Elite program. From knowing him to seeing him in person, I was like “wowww”. I always admire great people and I was even more amazed that he looks very humble if not easily being underestimated. More importantly, I was very into marketing so I craved to know if not being in contact with all well-known guys in this world. And just like fate, I met him again in the internship at a global agency. I just considered it as a try to apply for this opportunity but I got in and the first day I came into the office, I was instructed to sit next to a guy, and that guy turned his face to say “Hi” to me, it’s Duong, that to me was unbelievable and exciting. During that time, I shared one boss and tended to work on the same projects. It was roughly two and a half months but I learnt a ton from him, he shared with me all great things he learnt from Elite program and his perspectives are always very unique. Remember we had heated debate while analyzing consumer insights under our company’s philosophy of challenging the convention and building a vision for future. I was kinda intimidated by his knowledge at first but then got to grow myself everyday because he was so willing to share and explain anything I did not understand but did not forget to leave a space for me to shine on my own thinking. We also hung out out of work or went for lunch together. It was funny to find him dozing sometimes during work hour. The time working with him was short but sharp and we still keep in touch till now, I just really appreciate all mentorship from him. To me he is a leader and inspirer. Thank you!
