At the age of 23, Dang Manh Toan has reached heights that not everyone can achieve. Graduating with excellence in Pharmacy, ranking 3rd in his class at Hong Bang International University, this young man not only stood out academically but also left a strong impression in various other fields. Now, Toan will continue to affirm himself as the Global Student Model Ambassador at the prestigious Global Student Fashion Week.
Admirable achievements from the school hall to the grand stage
During his university years, Toan was a student who constantly strived for excellence. He earned the title of “Student of Five Merits” at the university level for four consecutive years and received recognition from Phu Yen province as an outstanding student throughout his four years. Notably, his championship in the Hippocrates HIU 2023 competition and placement in the Top 20 of the National Biochemistry Competition in 2023 demonstrated Toan's exceptional academic abilities. Beyond academics, Dang Manh Toan was crowned Mister Hong Bang International University in 2024, a title that propelled him into the spotlight of artistic and fashion stages. For Toan, becoming an ambassador is not merely a title but an opportunity to fulfill his mission – to inspire the younger generation to think big, take action, and face challenges head-on to achieve their aspirations.
Passion for the arts and the Gen Z spirit
The journey to becoming Mister was not easy for the young man who once weighed 115 kg. For Toan, losing weight was not just a goal of improving his appearance but also a testament to his willpower and self-discipline. “There were times I wanted to give up, but every time that happened, I thought of my parents and those who have always supported me,” Toan shared. After a long journey, he successfully lost weight, achieved an ideal physique, and confidently stepped into the fashion world – his second passion after Pharmacy.
While prioritizing his studies, Toan always sought ways to balance his artistic passion with his professional path. He sees himself as a representative of Gen Z – creative, eager to learn, yet always maintaining a serious and responsible attitude toward what he does. To Toan, Gen Z is not just about dreaming but also about being ready to face challenges to pursue their goals. He shared an inspiring message: “Once you've decided to do something, be serious and maintain a positive attitude. Just try it – regardless of the outcome, at least you won't have regrets.”
Spreading the story of resilience
Toan does not stop at proving himself through outstanding achievements but nurtures an even greater aspiration: spreading positive inspiration to the community, especially to the younger generation. For him, every milestone in life serves as a clear testament to perseverance, resilience, and the spirit of overcoming challenges. His journey of losing weight from 115 kg, his relentless efforts in academics to earn the title of an excellent student, and his success in various competitions all embody a story of determination and continuous growth.
As the Global Student Model Ambassador at Global Student Fashion Week, Toan aims not only to express himself through fashion and appearance but also to use his story and image to promote positive values to everyone. He hopes that his presence at the event will motivate young people who are still uncertain about their own journeys. Regardless of where you start or how great the challenges may seem, with determination, perseverance, and belief in yourself, every dream can become a reality.
With his vision and unwavering will, Dang Manh Toan is continuing to write his life story—not only as an excellent pharmacist or a fashion icon but also as a source of inspiration for the youth of Vietnam and the world.
Larissa | Cameron Truong
