A Birthday Hike in Surrey: Nature, Family, and Conversations

Travelling in the UK

Stepping Out of the City and Into Nature Today was my little brother’s birthday. We celebrated in a way that felt simple yet deeply meaningful: by going on a hike with our friends Nick and Cristina in the Surrey area. We left the city around 8 AM, the air still cool and quiet, carrying that […]

Embrace Rejection: The Secret to Your Personal Breakthrough

Mountains

Rejection. Just the word can make your heart sink. Whether it’s a job you didn’t get, a school that turned you down, or a relationship that didn’t work out—rejection hurts. It’s uncomfortable, emotional, and sometimes it feels like the world is saying, “You’re not enough.” But here’s a truth I’ve learned the hard way:Rejection isn’t […]

Swimming in the Rain

Triathlon training

Slipping back into the water after a long break. Today was my first swimming practice in weeks. I hadn’t been in the pool for a while because I wasn’t feeling well, and I could feel my body missing it. Swimming has always had a special place in my heart. I wouldn’t call myself the fastest […]

Living the UWC Values Beyond Graduation

Peace

The Magic of UWC Connections It’s always nice to reconnect with people who have walked the same path, shared similar life-changing experiences, and carry the same set of values that shaped your own journey. This week, I had the joy of gathering with fellow alumni from the United World Colleges (UWC) movement here in Ho […]

Giving Back with Purpose

Peace

A Weekend of Reflection at SEO Vietnam This past weekend, I had the honor of being a guest speaker at SEO Vietnam—a remarkable organization that empowers young people across the country through education, mentorship, and internship placements. As part of the global SEO (Sponsors for Educational Opportunity) network, which includes branches in New York, London, […]

5 Mindset Shifts That Changed My Life Forever

Keep going

Why Mindset Is Everything There’s a version of me from 10 years ago who would be stunned by where I am now. Giving TEDx talks.Training for Ironman.Mentoring students and coaching young professionals. Back then, I had dreams — but I also had fear. I doubted myself. I waited for permission. What changed? My mindset. These […]

Discovering the Charm of Lô Tô – A Magical Evening with Sai Gon Tan Thoi and Lộ Lộ

Lo to show, Vietnam

Until this weekend, the vibrant world of Lô Tô was an experience entirely new to me. Invited by friends to visit the Sai Gon Tan Thoi Lô Tô troupe, I walked into the colorful, bustling venue on Bắc Hải Street, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, with curiosity and excitement. Despite having known Lộ Lộ, […]

Quieting the Inner Critic: A Step-by-Step Guide to Reclaiming Your Confidence

Journaling

That Voice Inside Your Head You know that voice. The one that whispers: “You’re not good enough.”“You’re going to mess this up.”“Who do you think you are?” That voice is known as the inner critic—and left unchecked, it can sabotage your confidence, creativity, and even your relationships. It shows up when you’re about to try […]

How to Let Go of Your Past and Create a New Identity

A letter to yourself

Have you ever felt stuck in a version of yourself that doesn’t reflect who you truly want to be? Maybe it’s the overthinker. The people-pleaser. The one who always plays it safe.Deep inside, a voice whispers: “This isn’t me anymore.”And yet, letting go of the past can feel like tearing away a piece of your […]

Slowing Down to Move Forward

Beautiful flowers

Life moves fast, but sometimes, slowing down is the most powerful way to move forward. This past week reminded me of that truth in the most gentle and nourishing way. Between reconnecting with inspiring friends, joining an empowering education event, recovering from illness, and easing back into training, I felt like I was exactly where […]