My name is Thai Ngoc Tuong Minh, and I am 18 years old. I am currently studying at VNU-HCM High School for the Gifted, where I have had the opportunity to challenge myself academically while also nurturing my personal passions. I am a photographer and a Woman FIDE Master in chess, with 12 years of experience in the game. Chess has been a defining part of my life, shaping the way I think, make decisions, and overcome challenges. It has taught me perseverance, resilience, and strong logical thinking—skills that extend far beyond the chessboard and into every aspect of my life.

At the same time, photography has opened up another dimension of myself. Through the lens, I’ve learned to see the world with a creative and observant eye. Capturing fleeting moments and telling stories through images has helped me develop a deep appreciation for nuance, emotion, and detail. This balance between logic and creativity has naturally led me to a growing passion for media and communication. I am fascinated by the power of storytelling—whether visual or verbal—to connect people, spark change, and inspire action.

By pursuing media, I aim to combine the strategic thinking I’ve gained from chess, the artistic sensitivity I’ve cultivated through photography, and the values I hold close: authenticity, impact, and expression. I believe that media is not just a field, but a powerful tool to bridge disciplines and voices. With this belief, I’m eager to explore how I can contribute meaningful work in this space, both as a creator and a communicator.

CHESS

• National Master and Women FIDE Master (WFM) (2023 – 2024), with 12+ years of experience as a chess player, accumulating over 200 medals, trophies, and certificates. Skilled in planning and training for major tournaments, managing responsibilities, and balancing academics with practice (2014 – Present)
• Head of the Professional Department and Member of the Media Department at Chess Nang Khieu – Chess Club, Pho Thong Nang Khieu High School for the Gifted (2022 – 2023); promoted to President (2023 – 2024) and currently serving as Advisor (2024 – 2025)

ARTS

• Member of the Visual Department, Pho Thong Nang Khieu Photography Club (2022 – 2023); promoted to Vice President (2023 – 2024)
• Freelance Photographer in Ho Chi Minh City (2024 – Present)
• Designer at GLEE PTNK – Music Club, Pho Thong Nang Khieu High School for the Gifted (2022 – 2025)
• Designer at THE ILLY – Rap Club, Pho Thong Nang Khieu High School for the Gifted (2023 – 2025)

MEDIA

• Contributor to the management and content creation of the NBK Confessions page at my secondary school (2021 – 2022)
• Media Ambassador for the “I am GEN Z” project by YBOX.VN (2021 – 2022)
• Podcast Development and Editing participant at the BumbleBee project (2022 – 2023)

ACADEMIC

• Assistant from March to April and Leader from May to June in the Academic – Literature Department of the 2School Guideline project (2022 – 2023); promoted to Core Team Member of the Academic – Literature Department (2023 – 2024)

CHARITY

• Volunteer and Vice Designer at Benignity PTNK – Charity Club, Pho Thong Nang Khieu High School for the Gifted (2023 – 2024)