The pride of the pioneer class graduating from the International Program of Van Lang University

Mr. Nguyen Phu Qui, Valedictorian of the Master of Science in Management and Digital Business (a joint program between Liverpool John Moores University and Van Lang University), delivered a speech at the Commencement Ceremony on the afternoon of August 16, 2025, spreading strong motivation to the new graduates with the mindset of aspiration, innovation, and constant learning.

Good afternoon distinguished guests, professors, families, and fellow graduates,

My name is Nguyen Phu Qui, and I’m truly honored to be here today, representing the Master of Science program in Management and Digital Business, a joint degree between Liverpool John Moores University and Van Lang University. Currently, I work at National Australia Bank in the Channel Personalisation Team, part of the Marketing Enablement and Transformation Department.

Today is not only a celebration of academic success. It is also a recognition of the effort, commitment, and growth that brought us here.

I am a Van Lang alumnus. Twelve years ago, I stood at Campus 2 to receive my bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, graduating as valedictorian. Now, I return to celebrate a new milestone, completing my master’s degree with Distinction, at the top of my cohort. This is more than a personal achievement. It truly feels like coming home. 

This milestone belongs to all of us. It marks a new chapter in Van Lang’s journey of innovation, global connection, and heritage. Standing here as part of the very first cohort to graduate from the international program at the Institute of International Education, including both bachelor’s and master’s students. I hope we will continue Van Lang’s legacy and inspire future generations with the same ambition and spirit of growth.
After over a decade working in marketing, from agencies to in-house roles at organizations like Wall Street English and Vinamilk, I realized that no matter how far we go, we never outgrow learning. The moment we think we know enough is the moment we stop evolving. That’s why I came back to school. I chose to return for three key reasons:

• First, to refresh my thinking and skills in today’s fast-changing digital world.
• Second, because I knew Van Lang would welcome me back after 16 years.
• And third, to experience British higher education through Liverpool John Moores University, one of the UK’s leading modern universities.

Over the past year, this program gave us much more than textbook knowledge. We gained a solid foundation in strategy and critical thinking, sharpened our decision-making skills, and explored the frontiers of technology: from Python and AI to digital business models and ethical transformation. We learned boldness from Amazon and global strategies from Google. In this environment, one question always matters: What will we create next?

I would like to take this moment to thank the professors and faculty from both universities who guided, challenged, and supported us throughout. Especially to Ms. Trang, Mr. Tai, Linh, and Ms. Thuy for all of your dedication and care.

To my classmates, thank you for the teamwork, shared struggles, and memories.
To my family, especially my mother, sister, and my fiancée, thank you for always believing in me and supporting me with love and patience.
And to myself, thank you for coming back, and never giving up.

To all new graduates, we are fortunate to have studied in such a supportive academic environment and to graduate at a time when our skills are in demand. But we must remember: the world is changing faster than ever. 

• The explosive development of AI is transforming every industry.
• Strong technological skills are now essential, not optional.
• English proficiency opens doors to global opportunities and lifelong learning.

We live in a VUCA world, full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. Those who succeed are not always the strongest, but the most adaptive. 
Let’s carry this spirit on. This is not the end of our journey but only the beginning.

As long as the sun keeps rising, there is always a way forward.
Congratulations, Class of 2025.
And keep learning.

NGUYEN PHU QUI
Valedictorian of Class 1 of the International Program
Master of Science in Management and Digital Business