Nguyễn Mahn Lan

Early Life and Education

Nguyen Manh Lan, a proud son of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, embodies a blend of determination and adaptability. A graduate of the College of Television (CTV), he honed his skills in broadcasting and television, building the foundation for his versatile career. After a brief stint as a cameraman, Nguyen ventured into the modeling world at just 21, marking the beginning of his journey in the spotlight. Beyond his creative pursuits, he contributed as an English translator, assisting his mother with document translations—a role he credits with significantly improving his English skills. “This is how I was able to improve my English,” Nguyen reflects.

Career Challenges and Breakthrough

In 2015, Nguyen entered the Supermodel Contest held in Ho Chi Minh City but did not claim victory. “I was physically heavy back then, and I did not know how to improve myself,” he recalled, reflecting on the challenges he faced early in his career. Recognizing the limited opportunities in Hanoi, he moved to Saigon, where he discovered a thriving scene that offered more work in modeling and acting for TV series and films. “Saigon has more work opportunities for me,” Nguyen explained, appreciating the city’s dynamic environment. His determination paid off in 2016 when he made his runway debut at the highly anticipated Vietnam International Fashion Week, marking a significant milestone in his growing career.

Overcoming Setbacks

Nguyen’s rising success has not been without its challenges. “I began seeing my friends receiving more opportunities to work as models and actors on television and in movies, while I wasn’t,” he shared. “It was very difficult for me to watch, and it made me feel incredibly impatient.” However, he used this frustration as motivation for self-improvement. “I realized that there was still plenty for me to work on,” he reflected, emphasizing the importance of continual growth. His determination and resilience ultimately led to his victory as Mr. Vietnam 2024, a title that marks the pinnacle of a hard-earned journey for this nearly 6 feet 4 inches tall young gentleman.

Commitment to Social Causes

During the Mr. Vietnam pageant, Nguyen expressed his intention to donate a portion of his prize money to the victims of a recent typhoon in northern Vietnam. When asked how he envisioned his donation being used, he replied, “I would like the money to be used to provide food for the people in need.” His compassion extended beyond Vietnam’s borders, as he was also asked about helping other countries affected by powerful typhoons, such as the Philippines. With enthusiasm and conviction, Nguyen responded, “Of course, it is about helping the people.” His commitment to supporting those in need reflects not only his sense of responsibility but also his genuine empathy for those affected by natural disasters.

Advocating for Mental Health

As Mr. Vietnam, Nguyen hopes to address social issues, particularly mental health for men, emphasizing its personal significance. “I want to focus on mental health for men because they would be able to relate to me, as it comes from personal experience,” he explained. A 2020 study published by BMC Health Services Research revealed that 31.7% of adolescents in Vietnam experience symptoms of depression, with 11% showing suicidal tendencies. Nguyen is deeply committed to supporting others, especially as an older brother to a young man studying abroad. “I want to keep my brothers alive, and if someone is depressed, I want them to know they should talk to someone, and I can be that someone,” he said. He credits his parents’ unwavering support as his foundation, especially during difficult times. “Saving people is what I want the most,” he concluded, expressing his dedication to mental health advocacy.

Redefining Role Models

When asked about his role models, Nguyen shared a personal experience: “I had one. He is a celebrity and used to be my hero. After finally meeting him and seeing his true character, I realized he was no longer a role model for me.” He emphasized that being a public figure or attractive is insufficient for earning respect. “To be a role model, you need to be intelligent and a genuinely good person,” he said, highlighting the importance of integrity and substance over superficial qualities.

Defining Beauty and Authenticity

Nguyen also shared his perspective on beauty and authenticity in a society defined by modesty: “Beauty is not just about how you look on the outside; it’s about how you treat people and animals. This is how I will find my girlfriend,” he explained. As his popularity continues to rise, Nguyen remains grounded by values of humility. When asked what advice he would offer to younger people, he emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself. “Never forget where you come from, what you did to get here, and who helped you along the way,” he said. “Always be yourself. It’s good to be famous, but why change who you are?”

Nguyen Manh Lan embodies a compelling fusion of traditional Vietnamese values—resilience, humility, and community—with modern qualities of individuality and creativity. His journey exemplifies the enduring strength of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and its dynamic evolution, redefining the new face of masculinity. As he continues to inspire with his resolute dedication to social causes, mental health advocacy, and personal growth, Nguyen emerges as an emblem of progress—a young man who bridges tradition and modernity while reshaping masculinity within the realms of pageantry, modeling, and the film industry.