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Huynh Hai Ngan

ASEAN Data Science Explorers 2023 Regional Finalist, Viet Nam
Analyst at McKinsey & Company

For Huynh Hai Ngan from Vietnam, the ASEAN Data Science Explorers (ASEAN DSE) 2023 was not just a competition—it was a journey of growth, discovery, and purpose. Participating in ASEAN DSE gave her the opportunity to use data as a powerful tool to address pressing regional challenges, igniting a passion that has since defined her professional and academic aspirations.

During the competition, Ngan attempted to combine her passion for data and energy to create meaningful solutions for pressing energy issues in ASEAN. By analysing energy usage patterns and exploring potential pathways for renewable energy adoption, she realised that Vietnam’s green transition wasn’t just an ideal—it was achievable with the right insights and initiatives. This experience solidified her interest in sustainability, steering her career toward ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) consulting.

The competition’s unique focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) pushed Ngan to think beyond numbers. She learned to approach data holistically, turning raw figures into actionable strategies that addressed real-world challenges. “ASEAN DSE showed me how to bridge the gap between analysis and impact,” she reflects.

Beyond the technical skills, ASEAN DSE equipped Ngan with essential soft skills, including storytelling, cross-cultural collaboration, and effective communication. Representing Vietnam at the regional finals gave her a broader perspective on ASEAN’s diverse economic and cultural contexts. These lessons proved invaluable in her current role as a strategy consultant, where she helps businesses navigate sustainability challenges and adopt innovative practices.

Now a consultant at a global firm, Ngan believes that ASEAN DSE has provided her with the foundation to excel. “The competition gave me the confidence to tackle complex problems, connect with diverse stakeholders, and create solutions that matter,” she says. Looking back, she sees ASEAN DSE as more than a milestone—it was a launchpad for her mission to drive sustainable change through data.