Thao Nguyen is an Investment Principal at Ascend Vietnam Ventures (AVV), an early-stage VC firm investing in startups across Southeast Asia. 

The firm has invested in startups like MFast, SkyMavis, ELSA, and more. 

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👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

My role involves investing in exceptional teams that leverage technology to tackle market challenges and pain points—areas that traditional companies have not adequately served. 

These teams introduce innovative solutions with the potential to positively transform how we live, play, and work. 

My job is to identify these teams, provide the necessary capital to start and grow their businesses and support them throughout their journey towards realizing their vision.

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🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

One surprising aspect of my job in the venture capital industry is the contrast between its fast-paced nature and the extended feedback loop. 

While VC is known for its rapid changes due to technological advancements, it often takes several years to see the results of our investments and strategic decisions. 

This is quite different from many industries where outcomes are more immediately evident.

This prolonged feedback loop in venture capital is akin to planting seeds and waiting for them to grow into towering trees. 

When we invest in startups, we're sowing seeds of potential. These seeds don’t sprout overnight; they require nurturing, patience, and time to mature. It's common for several years to pass before we fully understand the impact of our investments. 

During this period, our role is to remain vigilant, adaptable, and supportive, guiding these emerging businesses through their complex journey toward success and maturity.

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

The most significant highlight of my career was the moment I ventured into this space, and I've remained here ever since. 

Every day feels like a highlight because it's never the same, and you have to be comfortable with the unexpected. The thrill of constant innovation and problem-solving is incredibly rewarding.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

I have to mention AI.

Its potential to revolutionize various industries is immense, fundamentally transforming business operations. AI's role in improving efficiency, boosting productivity, streamlining operations, and reducing costs cannot be overstated. 

Its widespread applicability and the swift emergence of innovative solutions in this field make it a particularly exhilarating trend to monitor.

Additionally, I am particularly interested in startups that address critical challenges in emerging SEA markets. 

These regions still face significant unmet demands for basic needs, especially in non-urban areas. 

Technology can truly make a difference and have a significant impact, particularly in fintech, edtech, and healthcare. 

I’m looking for startups who can bring creative solutions to help democratize access to high-quality education, financial services, and healthcare to underserved populations.

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💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

Venture capital is fundamentally an apprenticeship-based industry.

For those embarking on a career in this field, my first piece of advice is to embrace continuous learning, cultivate a growth mindset, and always maintain an open mind. 

Additionally, since our role involves working closely with founders, genuinely appreciating people and respecting their entrepreneurial journey is crucial.

As I've previously mentioned, a career in VC requires a long-term perspective. There's a fitting saying: 'Be impatient with action but patient with results.' In the fast-paced, competitive world of venture capital, swift and decisive action is crucial. 

However, it's equally important to exercise patience when awaiting outcomes. Success in venture capital often hinges on this patience, as investments don't always yield immediate returns.

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🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

I enjoy talking with founders about their vision and mission to make the world a better place through innovative ideas. 

Their passion and determination are truly inspiring. These conversations consistently leave me energized and excited about the future.

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🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

My favorite movie is the Indian film, 3 Idiots. I've watched it more than 20 times. The quote that resonates with me the most is 'Don't run after success. Pursue excellence, and success will follow you.' 

This reminds us that success is a result of our dedication to becoming the best version of ourselves and excelling in our chosen fields. 

It encourages us to find fulfillment in the process and trust that success will naturally come as a reward for our unwavering commitment to excellence.

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🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

I don't often eat ice cream, but when I do, I would choose the lemon tea flavor. I'm into sour foods, and it's a refreshing choice for me.

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FYI. We've edited this interview for clarity.