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Listen and subscribe to “Vietnam Innovators” in Vietnamese: Vietcetera Podcast | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube.
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Quang Do, founder of Overseas Vietnamese (OV), is a Vietnamese entrepreneur with a mission to create a supportive network for Vietnamese abroad. OV started as a digital platform for Vietnamese professionals and has grown into a dynamic global community, where members foster connections and support each other's career and personal growth.
Through initiatives like the OV Summit and OV Fellows, Quang is bridging cultural and professional divides and creating a unique space for the diaspora to thrive. His recent move to Vietnam signals a renewed dedication to OV’s mission and expanding opportunities for Vietnamese professionals globally.
From Idea To Reality
For Quang, the need to connect with fellow Vietnamese abroad became the foundation for OV. Living in Singapore, he found himself searching for a sense of belonging and solidarity. The idea began in 2019 as a small initiative that quickly attracted Vietnamese from various fields and countries, resonating deeply with a shared identity and professional purpose.
Initially, OV was a free, open community. As membership grew, Quang realized that a hybrid model—offering both free and exclusive paid memberships—could better serve members looking for a closer-knit network. This idea led to the creation of OV Fellows, a private community aimed at fostering deeper professional and cultural connections among its members.
Launching OV Fellows: A New Model For Community
The introduction of OV Fellows marked a significant shift for OV. This private, paid membership is designed to provide a curated experience, allowing members to engage in meaningful, focused connections. Quang describes it as an experiment in “engineering connection,” where community members can find valuable insights and opportunities with like-minded professionals.
OV Fellows currently hosts over 300 members, growing carefully to maintain its quality. Each member brings unique experiences and career goals, enriching the conversations and support within the community.
Quang emphasizes that OV Fellows is not just another networking group; it’s an environment where professional and cultural bonds deepen, providing valuable resources and support for Vietnamese around the world.
Bridging Cultures and Careers Through the OV Summit
A key annual event for OV, the OV Summit brings together members from around the world. The summit is more than just a gathering; it’s a space for professional and cultural exchange. Quang recalls that one of the most meaningful aspects of the summit is witnessing the diverse backgrounds of attendees—from Vietnamese raised in Russia to those from Canada and Japan—and how they find common ground despite their varied experiences.
These connections often extend beyond the summit itself. Members form friendships, partnerships, and even romantic relationships, building a strong sense of belonging within the OV network. The summit’s success reinforces Quang’s belief in OV’s role as a platform for nurturing and sustaining connections that are both personally fulfilling and professionally valuable.
Relocation To Vietnam: A Strategic Move For OV
After years in Singapore, Quang’s recent relocation to Ho Chi Minh City is both a personal and strategic decision for OV. He envisions Vietnam as a hub for OV’s activities, allowing members worldwide to have a physical anchor point where they can experience a slice of the community in person.
Quang describes this move as an opportunity to “optimize community value,” and he hopes that by establishing a presence in Vietnam, OV can better serve members looking to connect with their heritage or explore opportunities within the country.
This relocation also reflects Quang’s belief in the importance of staying connected with Vietnam, especially for overseas Vietnamese who may consider returning one day. His vision includes creating a space in Ho Chi Minh City where OV members can gather, collaborate, and feel a sense of home, even if they are only visiting temporarily.
Challenges And Aspirations For OV Fellows
Quang acknowledges the challenges of building a community that balances inclusivity and exclusivity. He aims to maintain the high standard of OV Fellows, ensuring it continues to offer a valuable experience for each member. The focus is not on rapid growth but rather on cultivating strong connections. Quang’s goal is to develop smaller clusters within OV Fellows based on industry, interests, or geographical location, which can enhance members' engagement and collaboration.
Looking ahead, Quang is optimistic about OV Fellows’ growth. His vision is for the fellowship to become a global community that supports Vietnamese professionals in navigating their career journeys, wherever they are in the world. He hopes that OV can help members not only find job opportunities or expand their networks but also rediscover and embrace their Vietnamese identity.