Deciding to test her abilities at "the most expensive show on the planet", the 39-year-old model stated her desire to prove that women of any age have the right to pursue their dreams. For her, the goal of "earning angel wings" is not merely a title but also about transcending personal limits. "Success would be a source of pride, but if not, I will still be proud of my courage in facing the challenge", she said.

Following the online application round, the model received an invitation for a direct meeting, a call-back, in Los Angeles, US, on 13-14/5. Candidates who pass this selection round will advance to round three – a high-intensity catwalk performance – to choose the individuals who will have the opportunity to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2026 and sign a contract with IMG Models.

While excited that her efforts were recognized, she felt nervous because there was only one week left for preparation. "I told myself I had to accelerate; this opportunity cannot be missed", she stated.

Truc Diem posted a video announcing she received a direct casting invitation from Victoria's Secret. *Video: Provided by subject*

The model stated that her greatest "weapon" is sincerity and positive energy. Professionally, Truc Diem is dedicating maximum time to training, aiming to create a strong impression during her direct meeting with the Victoria's Secret casting director. Due to a history of thyroid disease, her body is sensitive to intense workouts and strict diets, so she prioritizes sustainable balance. To meet the lingerie brand's physique standards, she combines yoga to maintain flexibility with weight training to increase firmness. Additionally, she practices mixed martial arts (MMA) three times each week, along with cardio, to improve her endurance. For nutrition, she follows a high-protein diet, reduces carbohydrates and sugar, and drinks fruit and vegetable smoothies every morning to detoxify her body.

Living with her condition has taught her to listen to and appreciate herself. She maintains regular health check-ups twice each year. According to the model, psychological pressure is "poison". Instead of creating self-imposed pressure, she chooses to embrace and enjoy the journey of her efforts. "The perseverance I gained from my days of treating illness has become an inner strength, helping me to be more resilient in this race", she shared.

Previously, for the online round, she prepared a portfolio according to the organizers' requirements. This included body measurements (over 1,75 m tall, balanced proportions), a set of photos with minimal or no makeup (portrait, full body, profile), and a self-introduction video. Given her acting background, which often requires her to self-record casting videos almost daily, she stated that it only took about two hours to complete these requirements.

Compared to her time competing in Miss Earth or Miss International, Truc Diem believes she is more mature and composed now. Previously, she often spent considerable time managing anxiety in front of crowds. Today, her life experiences have helped her cultivate the necessary courage and confidence to enter a highly competitive environment like Victoria's Secret.

She currently works at a private Vietnamese television station in Los Angeles. She both writes bilingual scripts and hosts live programs. The pressure of stage lights and the need for information accuracy have helped her develop quick thinking, language proficiency, and a professional demeanor.

In addition, Truc Diem is focusing on studying scriptwriting skills at Los Angeles City College. She recently completed her first short film script, which she plans to produce for the US market. "I hope to introduce audiences to cinematic works bearing my personal mark as a producer in the near future", she stated.

Truong Tri Truc Diem in a photoshoot taken last year. *Photo: Provided by subject*

Truong Tri Truc Diem was born in 1987 in Ho Chi Minh City. She was the first runner-up in the Miss Vietnamese Women through Photos 2005 pageant, and later participated in Miss Earth 2007, where she won the "Miss Fashion" award.

In 2011, she reached the top 15 in Miss International. While in Vietnam, Truc Diem was active in the arts in various roles including model, actress, singer, and host. She married businessman John Tu, who is six years her senior, in 2015. She announced her divorce in 2021 and subsequently moved to the US. The model rents a home and lives alone in Los Angeles. Over the past few years, she has occasionally returned to Vietnam to visit family and participate in fashion shows for close designers.

Victoria's Secret was founded by businessman Roy Raymond in 1977 in California. The lingerie brand is highly coveted by many models because, according to Vogue, walking for the brand is considered a "golden ticket" that helps them achieve international recognition. Fashionista magazine calls it the most desirable opportunity in the profession, a significant career milestone, thanks to its show being broadcast in approximately 190 countries and territories. Although Victoria’s Secret's influence declined between 2016 and 2021 due to various scandals, the brand still holds symbolic value.

Truc Diem participated in the short film "Doldrums" in 2023. *Video: Provided by subject*

Hoang Dung