Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones
Thanh Vo's Educational & Professional Background and story
Thanh Vo's story is one of unwavering resilience and relentless pursuit of a better future. Growing up in Vietnam, Thanh came from a modest background, where opportunities were limited, and the odds often felt stacked against her. But her determination to rewrite her story was more substantial than any obstacle.
The Early Years: A Detour into Media Production
Thanh dreamed of attending business school, a path she believed would lead her to success. However, her entrance exam score of 13.5/30 prevented her from securing a spot in the competitive business program. With limited options, Thanh accepted a place in Media Production at Hoa Sen University, where she studied for three years.
While media production honed her creative abilities, Thanh felt unfulfilled. Deep down, she knew this wasn't her true calling. Instead of resigning herself to a path that didn't align with her aspirations, she took an extraordinary leap: to start over in America, where there were no age limits or societal barriers to chasing one's dreams.
Reinventing Herself in America
Thanh's journey to the United States wasn't just a change of location but a complete transformation of mindset and purpose. Determined to turn her setbacks into opportunities, she enrolled at Richland College and pursued a Hospitality, Exhibitions, and Event Management (HEEM) degree.
But Thanh didn't stop there. She took advantage of America's wealth of educational opportunities, earning additional certifications in business, psychology, law, and fashion. Over the years, she explored diverse career paths, even considering becoming an attorney or fashion designer. Through these experiences, Thanh discovered her true passion: empowering others to overcome challenges, just as she had done.
Becoming a Life Coach and Entrepreneur
Thanh's life experiences inspired her to become a life coach and establish her own company. Her mission is to help individuals from underprivileged backgrounds realize that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. Thanh's coaching focuses on guiding people to transform their lives, rewrite their stories, and achieve their dreams—no matter their starting point.
Her business isn't just a career; it's a personal crusade. Thanh understands firsthand what it feels like to face rejection, doubt, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Her ability to connect with others facing similar struggles sets her apart as a mentor and leader.
A Mission Rooted in Experience
Thanh's journey from a poor, underprivileged background in Vietnam to becoming a successful entrepreneur in America is more than inspiring—it's a beacon of hope for others. Her story proves that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to pivot and grow.
Thanh now dedicates her life to helping others transform their lives. Whether through one-on-one coaching, workshops, or motivational events, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique journeys and create the futures they deserve.
Thanh Vo is living proof that anyone can achieve greatness with courage, determination, and a willingness to start over.
Education
2012-2015
Hoa Sen University, Vietnam
Media Production
2015-2016
University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida
Alumni Exchange Student, Dean’s List Awardee
2016-2019
Richland College, Dallas, Texas
Applied Associate of Science (AAS) in Hospitality, Exhibitions, and Event Management (HEEM)
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Graduated as an Honors Student with a 3.7 GPA
Certified Life Coach Certification in 2022-2023
2020-2021
Chabot College, Hayward, California
Business degree
2021-2022
FIDM/ Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
2022
Los Angeles City College
Paralegal Program in Los Angeles, California
About
My name is Thanh Vo - An Unorthodox CEO
I lead TRUE STRIVE, a firm dedicated to assisting immigrants with their U.S. transition. In addition, I leverage my social media marketing skills as a Content Creator on YouTube, where I educate and inspire a dedicated community of approximately 40,000 subscribers. My core competencies include problem-solving, small business marketing, and social media engagement.
At TRUE STRIVE, our team offers tailored services that empower immigrants to navigate their new environment successfully. Simultaneously, my YouTube platform has generated over $500K in sales, a testament to the educational and entertaining content we produce. We are committed to enriching the cultural fabric of our society by bridging gaps and offering diverse perspectives, all while fostering an inclusive community both online and in the real world.
Awards and Certifications

2017
● August: 2017 Richland College HEEM Out-of-country Scholarship, $1,000.
● October: IMEX America Future Leaders Forum.
● November: AAPI Lead Certificate.
2018
● May: DCCCD Summer Leadership Retreat Certificate of Completion.
● June: Leadership Scholar, PTK Honors Institute.
● August: IAEE Helen Brett ™ Scholarship scholars
● September: Obama Foundation Community Leadership Training
2019
● February: Richland College Honors Scholarship.
● March: DCCCD Amidon/Beauchamp Student Leader of the Year Award.
● March: District II Hall of Honor Award, Phi Theta Kappa
● April: All-Texas Academic Team.
● May: Received $100 with Student with Vision Award.