After winning the runner-up title at Miss Universe Vietnam 2025, Do Cam Ly discussed the pressures of life at 21 and her future plans.

Ly shared her thoughts on what the runner-up title means to her. "Everything is still very new to me. I need more opportunities and exposure for the audience to see my sincerity. I hope I can create more value for the community through specific projects," she said.

She reflected on her personal growth. "As a student, I was carefree, saying whatever came to mind. Now I understand I need to be more responsible and exercise restraint. I'm happy to have stayed true to my values from the beginning, presenting a dynamic and eager-to-learn image. I carried the motto 'Be a pioneer' from the International Relations Department of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities into the competition and into the journey ahead," Ly explained.

Ly also discussed her journey of self-discovery. "I'm learning to believe in myself more because I know it's not easy and requires continuous effort. Sometimes, I doubt my abilities, feel inadequate, and uncertain about my goals. Through the competition, I learned decisiveness and the ability to seize opportunities – this helped me excel in the final stage, showing the judges and the audience my strengths," she stated.

Ly spoke about her family's support. "I'm lucky to have my parents by my side, always loving me unconditionally. My life has been peaceful, which gives me a sense of security," she shared.

She described her parents' influence. "My parents are business people, and they always strive to invest in their children. Whenever I expressed a desire to learn a foreign language, they were always willing to support me, no matter the cost. During my four years of university, I never had to worry about tuition fees," Ly recalled. "My father is very disciplined and a perfectionist. This sometimes puts pressure on me, but it also teaches me to always strive in everything and never give up. He always says, 'Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today,' which helps me complete tasks on time. Despite his strictness, he also pampers me because I'm the youngest. My older brother is married with children."

She continued, "My mother is the bridge that keeps our family close. I can talk to her about anything. She taught me to see life with ease and appreciate what I have instead of demanding too much."

Ly opened up about her life experiences. "My life in my twenties hasn't always been smooth. I've had difficult times due to academic pressure and friendships. However, I feel fortunate that I haven't made any major mistakes that I regret. When I was younger, I was sometimes immature and would get angry and argue with my parents. But they never blamed or resented me. Through those times, I learned forgiveness and how to communicate gently."

Runner-up Cam Ly participates in an interview with VnExpress after the competition, 24/6 in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Sang Dao

Ly talked about her experience with independent living. "Before I was 18, I lived entirely with my parents in Dong Nai. I only started living independently when I entered university. In the beginning, to ease my worries, my parents visited me in Ho Chi Minh City every week. Gradually, I adapted, and things became easier. My studies sometimes made me feel overwhelmed, and there were times I cried alone in my room. But I didn't allow myself to fall into despair or negativity."

She explained how she earned her first income. "I started earning my first money by modeling. The income was only a few hundred thousand to a few million VND per month, but it helped me cover my living expenses. My parents always said they could afford to take care of me and didn't want me to struggle, but I didn't want to rely on them."

Ly shared her university experiences. "During my four years of university, I had many experiences that helped me mature. I'm proud not because I'm a good student but because of my dynamic personality. My major requires creativity and enthusiasm. In my second year, I had the opportunity to visit many provinces to learn about their history and culture. In my third year, I went to China and interacted with students from many universities, which broadened my horizons and knowledge."

Ly discussed her personal interests. "I enjoy visiting my family, cooking with my dad, and sleeping with my mom at night. When I'm stressed, I just need to think about my favorite food or a glass of milk tea to feel better. I love reading; it's a great way to relax and gain knowledge," she said.

She emphasized her authenticity. "I maintain a dynamic and innocent demeanor at 21 instead of trying to prove myself. Even as the runner-up, I don't think I need to create a facade because it easily feels inauthentic. I don't have a princess complex despite being pampered; on the contrary, I always want to challenge myself. During the competition, I often helped the crew and didn't hesitate to carry suitcases for other contestants, so I was often teased for 'looking like a man.' My parents often remind me to 'learn to be more gentle as a girl.' I'm not good at everything, but I'll make up for it with dedication and meticulousness."

Cam Ly's youthful appearance in everyday life. Photo: Provided by the subject

Ly shared her thoughts on entering the entertainment industry. "I've read about the entertainment world and seen quite a few issues like competitiveness and temptations, so I'm a bit apprehensive. However, I believe resilience is the key to overcoming them. My parents' upbringing is the most valuable asset I carry with me."

She expressed her belief in maintaining her values. "I think the way to maintain one's values in this industry is through seriousness and kindness. I trust the organization I'm with, seeing it as a guiding light that prevents me from getting lost."

Ly stated her current aspirations. "My current desire is simply to be loved and for my family to be healthy. I don't chase things beyond my reach and refuse to compromise my values to achieve my goals."

Ly discussed her community project. "I always believe education is the key to changing lives. I studied at a university strong in psychology, social work, and international relations. This background has helped me connect and find great inspiration in implementing the Education Caravan project."

She elaborated on the project's focus. "Instead of just talking about empowering education, I want to bring concrete opportunities to children. The project also focuses on developing life skills such as self-protection and sex education."

Ly shared her plans for the project's expansion. "Currently, I want to focus on developing the project in Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding areas first. After gaining enough experience, I hope to expand to more remote areas."

Do Cam Ly is originally from Phu Tho, but her family now lives in Dong Nai. She has completed her university program in International Relations at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Ho Chi Minh City and is currently waiting to receive her degree. She is 1.73 m tall with measurements of 83-61-97 cm.

Cam Ly is praised for her harmonious face with Asian features. At the competition, she also received the title of "Contestant with the most beautiful smile."

Tan Cao