Talkshow “How Festivals Shape National Identity?” | Faculty of Tourism Students Explore the Role of Festivals in Shaping National Identity

On the evening of January 21, 2026, at the main campus of Van Lang University, the Faculty of Tourism organized a talkshow entitled “How Festivals Shape National Identity?” The program featured a sharing session by Dr. Kristefan Minski – Ars Electronica Ambassador and Founder of Art Thinking PTY LTD from Australia. The event provided students of the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University with fresh perspectives on the relationship between festivals, national identity, cultural industries, and event management in the context of international integration.

With the theme “How Festivals Shape National Identity?”, the talkshow went beyond academic knowledge and opened up practical discussions on how festivals contribute to building a nation’s image, connecting communities, and promoting the development of creative industries. Through Dr. Kristefan Minski’s sharing, students had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the role of festivals in creating cultural experiences, spreading local values, and contributing to the sustainable development of the tourism and event industries. The session was attended by Dr. Do Thi Mai Doan Thuc – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Tourism, along with lecturers, staff members, students, and graduate students of the Faculty of Tourism.

After the program, five key messages were highlighted, offering practical value for students of the Faculty of Tourism on their journey to becoming professional tourism and event managers.

1. Embrace Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration

In the constantly evolving entertainment and event industry, the future of festivals requires the integration of various fields such as art, technology, communications, management, and tourism. Multi-disciplinary collaboration helps events become more creative, engaging, and sustainable in the long term.

2. Work with Multiple Stakeholders

A successful festival cannot be built by a single individual or organization. It is the result of collaboration among creative industries, government agencies, local communities, businesses, and educational institutions. Connecting multiple stakeholders helps build a sustainable festival ecosystem with long-term value.

3. Prioritise Curated, Meaningful Experiences

Festivals are not only spaces for entertainment and recreation, but also important tools for telling cultural stories, shaping identity, and connecting people. Experiences that are thoughtfully designed, interactive, and rooted in local values can create a strong impression on participants.

4. Encourage Bold Innovation

In event management and festival development, innovation is a key factor in creating distinction. Dr. Kristefan Minski encouraged students to bravely experiment with new ideas, take calculated risks, and continuously create in order to leave their own mark in the tourism and event industry.

5. Seize Regional Opportunities

Vietnam and Southeast Asia have great potential for development in the fields of culture, tourism, and creative industries. This is an opportune time for the younger generation, especially students majoring in tourism and event management, to seize opportunities to create valuable cultural products and make positive contributions to society.

The talkshow “How Festivals Shape National Identity?” provided students of the Faculty of Tourism at Van Lang University not only with professional knowledge, but also with inspiration for creative thinking, international collaboration, and sustainable event development. The insights shared by Dr. Kristefan Minski helped students better understand the role of festivals in shaping national identity, while also broadening their perspectives on the future of tourism, event management, and cultural industries.

The program concluded with many practical values, serving as valuable preparation for students of the Faculty of Tourism as they continue to study, gain experience, and develop their professional competencies in a globally integrated environment.

Photos: Minh Thien
News: Zoey