CDU graduate turns family passion into international career

When Charles Darwin University graduand Thai Son Nguyen crosses the stage at this week’s Alice Springs graduation ceremony, he will celebrate more than a qualification.

He will honour the resilience, family legacy and determination that brought him from Vietnam to Central Australia and launched his career in hospitality.

Mr Son will be one of 173 graduands recognised at CDU’s graduation ceremony on Thursday, where he will also deliver the student address.

Originally from Vietnam, Mr Son’s passion for hospitality was inspired by his mother, who owned a small café in Vietnam before it was forced to close during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Watching the doors of my mother’s café shut was heartbreaking. It showed me her strength and is the reason that I found myself living and studying in Alice Springs,” Mr Son said.

“When I walk into a kitchen, I am not there to just prepare food, I am continuing my mother’s story.  Every dish I create carries her love and resilience.”

Mr Son’s sister will be in the audience as he is awarded a Diploma of Hospitality Management and a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management.

During his studies at CDU Alice Springs, Mr Son gained industry experience and practical kitchen training allowing him to pursue his ambition of following in his family’s footsteps.

His studies have already helped him build a career in the hospitality industry, securing a full-time position at the award-winning Hanuman restaurant in Alice Springs.

CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said graduation ceremonies were an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements of students and the journeys that brought them to this moment.

“Mr Son’s story reflects the determination, courage and ambition we see in so many of our students,” Professor Coulson said.

 “Studying in Central Australia and the Barkly often comes with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities, and our graduates should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved,” Professor Coulson said. 

“I know these graduates are already working towards shaping the future of Alice Springs and beyond.”

 The CDU Central Australia and Barkly region graduation ceremony will be held on Thursday 11 June at 5pm at the Alice Springs Convention Centre.