SUCCESS STORY
DOAN XUAN PHUOC
An Inspiring Voice for Young Agri-Professionals
We’re proud to spotlight the inspiring journey of Doan Xuan Phuoc, a shining example of the young talent reshaping the future of Vietnamese agriculture.
Doan Xuan Phuoc
Trial Assistant, Rijk Zwaan
A 2022 graduate in Biotechnology from the University of Science in Ho Chi Minh City, Doan Xuan Phuoc is already making strides in the field as a Trial Assistant at Rijk Zwaan, where he has spent the past two years immersed in hands-on agricultural work.
Interestingly, Phuoc’s path wasn't the one most of his university friends chose. "Agriculture is the field that most of my college friends would not choose," he shares, reflecting on the common perceptions that deter many young people, long hours under the tropical sun, unpredictable weather, and outdated practices. But where others saw hardship, Phuoc saw potential.
“Vietnamese agriculture is mostly cultivated with low-tech methods and really needs young people to help apply technology and knowledge. I want to study agriculture in overseas countries and focus on scientific research to help growers adopt the right technologies to their cultivation”, he shared. With this mindset, Phuoc is part of a new wave of tech-savvy youth who see opportunity in transforming Vietnam’s traditional farming sector.
“I can truly be myself in this sector"
Doan Xuan Phuoc
Despite his biotechnology background not being directly focused on crop cultivation, the Vietnamese young representative has embraced the learning journey with enthusiasm. He shares:
“The most rewarding thing for me is that I can truly be myself in this sector. Although my university major was not directly related to crop science, working in agriculture has allowed me to learn about crop cultivation, plant physiology, greenhouse operations, project leadership, organizational skills, natural enemies, and new technologies. All of them serve one common purpose: improving crop yields. It may sound difficult, but through these hard, I’ve gained lessons that I can share with and use to support growers.”
His story is a powerful testament to the impact of curiosity, humility, and dedication. Phuoc’s passion for learning and his commitment to empowering farmers align perfectly with the mission of the Empower Youth4Food campaign — to inspire young minds to lead sustainable change in food systems.
“You need to speak the language of the growers”
Phuoc leaves young people with a powerful piece of advice, a lesson he learned from a colleague:
“If you are the best expert in the world but growers do not understand you, all means zero. So, you need to be practical in your work and speak the growers' language.”
His insight highlights the critical importance of bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application through clear communication. His journey is a fantastic example of the exciting paths open to young professionals who are ready to dive into the dynamic world of Vietnamese agriculture.
“I hope you find your interest, and always be yourself,” our Vietnamese young representative shared.
