L’Oreal Scholarship Recipient Phuong Hoang Motivated to Pay it Forward

Since starting her MBA at HEC Paris one year ago, Phuong 'Evelyn' Hoang has served multiple roles from an MBA Ambassador to a Career Representative for her classmates. 

1. Name and hometown:

Phuong Hoang (Evelyn) - from Vinh Phuc, Vietnam. In English, “Vinh Phuc” means “Forever Happiness”

2. Previous Education:

Foreign Trade University, International Business Economics

3. Pre-MBA job:

As the Brand Manager for Maggi at Nestlé Vietnam, I oversaw two critical areas of focus. First, I served as the E-Business Champion, where I drove the digital strategy and online presence of the brand. Second, I acted as the Product Marketing Lead, managing the marketing initiatives and product positioning to ensure market growth and consumer engagement.  

4. What do you think will be your most valuable or differentiating contribution to your intake?

I am quite proud of my first year which was dynamic as I undertook various roles within student organizations focused on career development for my MBA intake. Currently, I serve as a Career Representative (supporting HEC Talents), Vice President of Communication & Events for the Consulting Club, and Partnership Director for the Tech Club. In these roles, I actively leverage numerous resources, including HEC Talents, alumni, and partner companies. My primary goal is to communicate job opportunities and skill enhancement programs in Consulting and Tech to my peers.

Furthermore, I am an active MBA Ambassador, sharing my experiences with prospective MBA candidates worldwide, with a special focus on Southeast Asia. I have participated in two webinars, led five school tours, and taken part in promotional photo shoots for HEC Paris.

I am passionate and proud to contribute to the career development of my cohort and to promote HEC Paris within the community, ensuring that HEC Paris maintains its position as a top leading business school in the world.

5. Why was receiving the L’Oreal scholarship important to you?

Receiving the L’Oreal scholarship was a significant milestone in my journey, deeply resonating with my leadership philosophy and career aspirations. The application process required candidates to articulate their views on leadership styles conducive to creativity and innovation, and I identified "Leading with courage and empathy" as central to my approach. This wasn't merely a theoretical stance, rather a reflection of lessons learned through diverse experiences.

Early in my career at PNJ and Vinasoy, I honed my entrepreneurial instincts by challenging conventional business norms. These formative roles empowered me to embrace innovation and risk-taking, essential qualities in today's dynamic business landscape. Subsequently, at Suntory Pepsico and Nestlé, I delved into omnichannel strategies, where I recognized the pivotal role of empathy in fostering cohesive, high-performing teams.

Receiving the L’Oreal scholarship validated my commitment to a leadership style rooted in courage and empathy. It bolstered my confidence in pursuing a future role in digital consulting and strategy post-MBA, particularly within leading corporations where innovation thrives. Moreover, being chosen as the scholar recipient from my cohort was not just an accolade but also a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

This recognition has ignited a sense of responsibility within me—to demonstrate the value of this scholarship by advancing women's leadership and fostering innovation in business. I aspire to leverage this opportunity to contribute meaningfully to L’Oreal’s mission and collaborate closely with HEC Paris on initiatives that align with my values and goals.

In essence, receiving the L’Oreal scholarship represents more than financial support; it signifies affirmation of my leadership journey, a platform to champion diversity and innovation, and an invitation to join a community committed to excellence in business and beyond.