Rapper Phao is preparing for the direct selection round of Miss Grand Vietnam 2026, scheduled for 19/6, where she will meet the judging panel. Her application, announced in May, garnered significant attention online, leading interactions on the competition's main platform. Despite this, many observers have questioned whether her height of 1.68 meters and weight of 49 kg, along with her facial features, are suitable for a beauty pageant.

Addressing the comments, Phao stated, "I believe the competition is not only based on appearance; contestants also need intellect, courage, and their own story." She revealed that she once felt self-conscious about her looks, having experienced weight fluctuations. Previously, she paid little attention to her appearance, often dressing casually, rarely wearing makeup, and even sporting a tomboy haircut.

"When entering the beauty pageant field, I realized that looking good and knowing how to take care of my appearance when appearing in public is important," the "Hai phut hon" vocalist added. Phao's confidence has grown, fueled by encouragement from friends and fellow beauty queens like Thanh Thuy, Le Hoang Phuong, Doan Thien An, and Bao Ngoc. To prepare, she has been studying past catwalks and interview segments of other contestants. She also embraced a new style, practicing in evening gowns and high heels (nearly 20 cm), a departure from her typically strong and rebellious image. Her regimen includes two hours of daily gym training with a coach to achieve a toned physique and honing her performance skills.

Phao in a sheer evening gown for a new photo set. Photo: Nhut Quang

Singer Phuong My Chi noted that upon their first meeting, Phao seemed to have an "invisible wall," making her appear unapproachable. "Once she broke down that shell, Phao gradually showed everyone her versatility and friendliness," Phuong My Chi said. Phao, whose real name is Nguyen Dieu Huyen, is 23 years old and hails from Ha Noi. She rose to prominence as the runner-up of "King Of Rap" and is a leading Gen Z female rapper. Her hit song "Hai phut hon" has garnered hundreds of millions of views on digital platforms, leading to a collaboration with rapper Tyga on a remix. She has performed at international music festivals, including Asia Song Festival and Round Festival, and received nominations for New Artist of the Year and Female Singer of the Year at the Giai Cong Hien awards. Earlier this year, Phao starred as the female lead in director Tran Thanh's film "Tho oi," which grossed over 450 billion dong.

Miss Grand Vietnam debuted in 2022, following Nguyen Thuc Thuy Tien's victory at Miss Grand International 2021 in Thailand. The pageant champions peace and seeks contestants who embody modern beauty and stature. Over four seasons, previous winners include Doan Thien An, Le Hoang Phuong, Vo Le Que Anh, and Nguyen Thi Yen Nhi.

The new season launched at the start of the year, with main activities beginning in June. The winner will represent Vietnam at Miss Grand International 2026 at the end of the year. Nguyen Thi Yen Nhi, the reigning beauty queen, will crown her successor at the final, expected in July in TP HCM. The judging panel includes Miss Huong Giang, Ky Duyen, Le Hoang Phuong, Doan Thien An, and actors Quoc Truong, Nhat Kim Anh.

Tan Cao

Photo, video: Character's team provided