The future is yours to create: Loan Nguyen

Loan Nguyen, a bartender at The Enigma Mansion Bar in Saigon, never imagined herself in the drinks world, until she discovered the joy of mixing conversation and cocktails. From hosting events to representing Vietnam at the Campari Red Hands Finals, her journey is all about connection, curiosity, and staying true to herself behind the bar.

A little bit about me

Hi, I’m Loan, and I work at The Enigma Mansion Bar in Saigon. I didn’t grow up dreaming of being a bartender or anything like that. I actually started as an event host, but over time, I realized I really enjoyed the world of drinks too. Eventually, I figured out I could combine both, and that’s how I found my place in this industry.

My favorite part of the job is talking to people. Being behind the bar feels a bit like speed dating with the world. Every night brings new faces, funny stories, strange advice, and unexpected life lessons. It keeps things exciting. That unpredictability is what makes this job so special to me.

I wouldn’t say I have a big mission driving me. What pushes me forward is simple: I want to be someone others can count on. A good daughter, a loyal friend, and a teammate who shows up when it matters. That mindset keeps me grounded and helps me grow.

How I approach my work

One of the most helpful pieces of advice I’ve ever received came when I was putting a lot of pressure on myself to grow fast in this industry. Someone told me, “We’re all just ordinary people, accept that first.” It wasn’t about making excuses, but about learning to be kind to myself so I could keep going without burning out.

When it comes to feeling like I’m making progress in my career, I think bartending is really about people, so real, human experiences matter the most. Sometimes growth looks small, like learning a new garnish, making a drink I’ve never tried before, or connecting with someone new. Other times it’s a competition or a chance to travel. As long as something keeps me curious, I feel like I’m moving forward.

“Sometimes growth looks small, like learning a new garnish, making a drink I’ve never tried before, or connecting with someone new.”

What motivates me most at work is when someone actually notices the effort I put in. My manager is great at that, and it really keeps me going. I also value honest feedback, even when it’s something I missed. It helps me understand how to improve. And of course, salary matters too!

I definitely think brands are important supporters of the bar industry. The partnership between brands and bars can have a big impact, especially when brands focus on supporting the people behind the bar. They don’t just bring great products, but they also create chances for bartenders to grow, learn, and get recognized. Plus, having a well-stocked bar is always a win!

My experience in Campari Red Hands 2024

Representing my country on an international stage meant more than I expected. I didn’t carry a flag, but I carried all the flavors, stories, and chaos of home with me. Standing there, I felt proud, not just of myself, but of how far Vietnam’s bar scene has come.

The energy in Milan was loud in the best way. The art, the speed, the confidence, it really lit a fire in me. It reminded me to stop playing small and take up space, and that mindset helped me perform with more courage.

The biggest challenge was my own mind. I kept wondering if I was good enough. But once I stopped comparing myself to others and focused on my own voice and story, things started to flow. Sometimes, your thoughts are the hardest part of the competition.

My cocktail was all about passion, the passion I share with Campari and the passion I carry from home. I used art as a bridge to blend Italy and Vietnam into one drink, turning it into a story in a glass.

To bring my local bar culture into the presentation, I used coffee, something both Italian and Vietnamese cultures love. I brewed it the traditional Vietnamese way live on stage. It wasn’t just about flavor, it was about connection, from Saigon to Milan, warm, a bit messy, and full of heart.

“Prepare like a nerd, practice like a pro, but leave space to surprise yourself. People remember what feels real, not what looks perfect, so don’t be afraid to take up space and be you.”

What I learned from the other finalists is that even if we’re all different in style, culture, or language, we’re still deeply connected through this craft. Seeing their passion and professionalism inspired me to keep growing while staying true to my roots.

Looking back, I’m proud that I showed up as myself, a young, Vietnamese, female bartender. I told our story honestly, and it connected with people. That same passion is what I carry behind the bar, on stage, and off camera. That means everything to me.

If I could give one piece of advice to next year’s finalists, it would be this: prepare like a nerd, practice like a pro, but leave space to surprise yourself. People remember what feels real, not what looks perfect, so don’t be afraid to take up space and be you.

This competition changed how I see myself. I used to think I was still figuring everything out, but now I see that I already have a voice. What I really needed was the chance, and the courage, to speak it out loud.

What’s next? No big surprises yet. I’m still behind the bar, learning something new every night. But I’m quietly working on something bigger. Just wait and see.