Dr. Pham Minh Phuong (widely known by her English name as Dr. Felicia Pham) is a dynamic personality known for her unparalleled contributions to academia and the business world. She currently serves as the Regional Ambassador at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford in Vietnam, and is also an Industry Mentor at the Swiss School of Business and Management University (SSBM).
In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Pham holds a significant position as the Managing Partner (CEO) & Founding Shareholder of Sunwah English Education. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in driving the growth and success of Sunwah English Education.
Her illustrious career includes working closely with some of the wealthiest families in Vietnam and Asia which is supporting her to hold a distinguished position as the Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnam Trade & Investment Promotion Club (Vinatipc). Dr Pham’s unwavering dedication to promoting trade and fostering international relations between Vietnam and the global market showcases her commitment to driving positive change and growth.
On Path to Leadership
Becoming a business leader was a strategic decision for Dr. Pham, a culmination of self-development and rigorous training. It represents a departure from past challenges, allowing her to forge a stronger and more resilient version of herself in the present. She aims to leverage her experiences to serve as a source of inspiration for young individuals, particularly aspiring female leaders, empowering them to chase their dreams and reach new heights.
Firstly, Dr. Pham acknowledges that her family tradition has significantly shaped her character and leadership approach. Her grandparents were renowned war heroes documented in history who sacrificed everything to safeguard the Fatherland. During peacetime, her maternal grandfather, who held a position equivalent to today’s Minister of Economy, dedicated his life to serving the Fatherland and its people until his final days. This tradition was upheld by her mother and her uncles.
Dr. Pham’s father, a university professor for three decades, introduced her to Shakespeare and “The Art of War” at the age of four, cultivating in her a profound appreciation for poetry and a scholarly passion for English classical literature. She was shaped by the resilience and courage of a General’s Lady, a legacy passed down from her grandparents, alongside the grace and literary talent of her father. This has shaped Dr. Pham’s resilience in challenging situations and her unwavering determination to persevere even when the odds are stacked against her.
Dr. Pham’s initial exposure to the world of business occurred during her high school years. As one of the top students in the school, she took advantage of the opportunity to provide tutoring services at a premium rate to a select group of affluent classmates. Prior to that achievement, she experienced a significant period of isolation due to being perceived as “different and unusual.” This changed when she secured first prize in the city-level speech contest, standing out as the sole winner from her school. That experience was pivotal in helping her recognise that her skills represent a valuable asset, one that can be leveraged. As long as she continues to enhance her capabilities, she will command respect and reap financial rewards.
“Business operates on the principle of exchanging equivalent values or aligning values to create enhanced value. Simultaneously, this realisation reinforced the importance of unwavering self-belief and the necessity of embracing our unique qualities. We are inherently exceptional, and it is vital to acknowledge and accept that exceptionalism,” says Dr Pham.
The Institute
Sunwah English Education is a preeminent educational institution committed to enhancing English language proficiency and communication skills across Vietnam. Positioned at the forefront of language education in the region, Sunwah English Education offers comprehensive English courses tailored to meet the demands of students, professionals, and corporations.
Founded with a vision to bridge global communication gaps, Sunwah English Education combines innovative teaching methodologies with a dynamic curriculum, fostering an engaging learning environment for all ages. The institute’s mission is to enable learners to excel in their personal and professional lives by mastering the English language.
Located across multiple prime venues in Ho Chi Minh City, including the iconic Sun Wah Tower and Sunwah Innovation , Sunwah English Education prides itself on its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional faculty. The pedagogical approach is deeply rooted in practical application and immersive learning, ensuring that students not only acquire language skills but also develop cultural insights and global perspectives.
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, Sunwah English Education continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of English language learning in Vietnam, empowering individuals to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
Staying Relevant
In a dynamic business environment, it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments and incorporate this knowledge into one’s business strategy. Dr Pham believes that in a dynamic market landscape, her focus should not be on merely adapting to external shifts but rather on introspection. She must evaluate her own readiness for transformation. If the response is “no” or if she remains uncertain, it indicates that, in this context and at this moment, “change” or “trends,” regardless of their perceived rationale, are not appropriate for her or her organisation.
She recognises that each individual possesses a unique approach and strategy for attaining success. While observing trends can be beneficial for many, she will consistently maintain a clear understanding of her strengths and weaknesses, particularly her key advantages, as well as those of the business she leads, enabling the creation of genuine and sustainable value.
Approach to Success in Life
Dr Pham’s approach to business is to maximise efficiency while minimising resource expenditure. Cooperating with the right associates or partners to develop and optimise resources remains her top priority. She consistently upholds and honours her commitments, which in turn shapes her reputation in the business landscape.
Her business is an integral part of Dr. Pham’s life; there is no distinction between the two. The success she achieves in her business brings her genuine joy and fulfilment. She feels that the notion of needing to “balance” work and life frequently arises when there is a lack of true appreciation for the business, leading to a desire to compartmentalise the two aspects. Dr. Pham believes that it is more efficient to merge the two into a single entity, transforming work into a source of joy.
Words of Wisdom
Dr. Pham concludes with the following advice for aspiring business leaders who are just starting out in their careers:
“Be strategic, have the courage to fully commit to your chosen path, and refrain from expressing dissatisfaction in the face of setbacks. Even in defeat, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of elegance, as poise is vital for effective leadership.
When faced with the decision between pursuing the role you enjoy most and the one in which you excel, prioritise the latter. Enjoyment is merely an emotion, whereas excelling in your work enables you to generate significant value and establish yourself as a leader in the industry.”
Quote: “If you possess the determination, you can accomplish any goal you set your mind to. If you haven’t achieved it, it’s clear you didn’t desire it with sufficient intensity.”
