An aspiring creative force for social transformation

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Tiếng Việt

An aspiring creative force for social transformation

Passionate about using art to connect and educate children with special needs, Vu Ngoc Minh Chau, a newly awarded Vice-Chancellor's Scholar at RMIT Vietnam, aims to establish an educational centre that fosters integration and creativity through visual art.

During her childhood in Ho Chi Minh City, Vu Ngoc Minh Chau watched her friend struggle with ADHD. Among the chaos of torn books and loud outbursts, Chau noticed something remarkable – when her friend engaged with colourful artbooks, a sense of calm and focus emerged. This experience planted a seed in her that grew into a passion for using art to connect with and support others.

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RMIT Vietnam’s Vice-Chancellor's Scholar Vu Ngoc Minh Chau

Fast forward to today, Chau is an accomplished high school graduate and one of RMIT Vietnam’s Vice-Chancellor's Scholars in 2024. Her journey from that pivotal moment with her friend to earning one of RMIT’s most prestigious scholarships is a testament to the power of empathy, creativity and unwavering determination.

“Those days with my friend changed me completely,” Chau recalled.

“I realised that art wasn’t just about creating something beautiful, it could be a bridge, a way to reach people who might otherwise feel isolated or misunderstood.”

One such opportunity came in the form of the stePets project, which Chau co-founded to help abused and abandoned animals.

“It was about giving a voice to those who couldn’t speak for themselves with every product we designed,” Chau said.

Her team’s dedication helped raise over ten million VND for the cause, but more importantly, it showed her the tangible impact that thoughtful design could have on real-world issues.

This understanding guided Chau to blend her passion for art, academic achievements, and commitment to community impact.

Chau's passion for social impact is evident in her extracurricular activities. Her leadership skills shone as the Public Relations Lead for Workshop 'TU(A)', where she managed a team of 50 to organise a mental health workshop attracting 200 participants.

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Chau experienced the real sense of tangible impact that thoughtful design could have on real-world issues.

At SUGAR Vietnam, Chau led the Design team, significantly boosting social media engagement. Her creative talents were extended to designing publications for The Psychealer Club's mental health initiatives and contributing to the Miracle au Vietnam Project's cultural podcast series. These experiences showcase Chau's ability to blend creativity, leadership, and social responsibility across various platforms.

During her high school years at the VNU-HCM High School for the Gifted, Chau not only maintained an outstanding GPA but also actively pursued ways to apply her growing creative talents for social good.

Ms Tran Thi Cam Van, Chau’s high school literature teacher wasn’t surprised by her former student’s success. She recalled Chau’s ability to see beyond the words on the page and translate complex social themes from the literature into ideas for practical action.

Chau’s vision of starting an educational centre is a passion she has already begun pursuing. During an internship at MiYork Education, a social enterprise focusing on educational consultation, Chau impressed CEO Nguyen Thi Anh Tuyet with her clear sense of purpose.

“Despite her age, Chau has shown maturity and clarity in her career objectives, which is rare among her peers,” Ms Tuyet said.

“She often discussed her aspirations with me, seeking advice on business management and leadership to further her success. Opting to intern at MiYork rather than a creative agency, she chose to learn not only graphic design but also the entrepreneurial mindset crucial for her future endeavours.”

It was this blend of academic insight and social consciousness that caught the attention of RMIT Vietnam. For this year’s scholarship program, the University’s call for scholarship applicants who aim to create impact through their studies, resonated deeply with Chau’s aspirations.

“When I read about RMIT’s commitment to fostering impactful future leaders and promoting social inclusion, it felt like they were speaking directly to me,” Chau said.

“I have dreamed of opening an educational centre for children with autism and hearing impairments, using visual art as a teaching tool. RMIT’s Design Studies program feels like the perfect next step towards making that dream a reality.”

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Chau and her parents

As Chau prepares to begin her journey at RMIT, she is brimming with ideas and enthusiasm.

“I am excited to formalise my self-taught skills,” Chau said.

“But what really thrills me is the chance to collaborate with other students and lecturers who share my belief in design as a force for good.”

Chau’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful changes start with a simple moment of connection and a willingness to see the world through someone else’s eyes.

Story: Ha Hoang

Campus and community

23 October 2024

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