The future is yours to create: Chun Chun 

The owner of the Pi bar in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, Chun Chun fell head over heels for the bar industry. Creativity, camaraderie and genuine passion will be Chun’s legacies 

A little bit about me 

My journey into bartending wasn’t just a job opportunity; it was a conscious choice. Like most people, I got into hospitality as a server at a French restaurant and what happened, happened. I was bewitched by all the clinking bottles I saw on the selves, the smell, the tastes, the sounds.  

Coming from a rural background, I was eager to conquer every new obstacle I encountered – bartending actually helped humble me. It became a journey of constant learning and personal growth. 

I’ve fallen in love with the atmosphere when toasting with people, when they smile and when they tiddle with the tinkling of glasses, you know, it’s very special and distinctive. And then the spirits world got to me. The challenge of learning new knowledge, connecting with people, and, of course, enjoying a good drink is what I cherish the most.  

Bartending helped humble me. It became a journey of constant learning and personal growth. 

I think that leads me to become easily a more happy person. Drinking makes me happy, making drinks makes me happy, people adoring my drinks make me happy.  

I consider myself a free-spirited person, finding success in not sweating the small stuff. A fearless and dedicated approach to life has taken me far. Unwavering determination and a single-minded focus can lead to unforeseen destinations. I might not know exactly where I’m heading now, but I know that I will get there. 

How I approach my work 

The most impactful advice I’ve received came from my mother: ‘Do whatever you want, be whoever you want to be, just don’t do bad things.’ This guidance not only shaped my personal values but also influenced my professional approach. 

Given my innate curiosity and the need for a thorough understanding of my craft, continuous learning is a cornerstone of my professional progression. 

I always want to continually refine my skills to stay at the forefront of the field for as long as I can, building a thriving business, and making a positive impact on the industry.  

The best advice from my mother: ‘Do whatever you want, be whoever you want to be, just don’t do bad things.’

Having been both an employer and an employee, I find motivation in the intrinsic rewards of the job itself. Permission to be creative and a sense of trust are the cherries on top.   

Brands have played a significant role in my career journey. In the initial stages, they provided essential support through training sessions, gatherings, and competitions, helping me integrate into the industry community. As a business owner, collaboration with brands has offered valuable opportunities to extend my reach beyond Vietnam, being both partners work and friends in life. 

My thoughts on mentorship 

While I don’t have specific individuals I look up to, I find inspiration from a diverse range of people both within and outside the hospitality industry. I believe everyone has unique experiences and insights to offer, and I am open to learning from various perspectives.  

I’ve always tried to learn from everyone but I’m going to do things my way.  

To me a role model is someone who embodies the qualities and values that I find admirable and aspire to adapt into my own life. I deeply respect individuals who consistently display professionalism, resilience, and a commitment to their work. Recognising the universal importance of these qualities, especially in a newly robust industry in Vietnamese culture, is crucial. 

I’ve always tried to learn from everyone but I’m going to do things my way.  

When I was younger I spent most of my time being a part of a team. Now I am leading my team myself, I prioritise a wealth of knowledge and the ability to offer valuable insights and guidance. Additionally, a keen understanding of the team’s goals is essential, setting the stage for a focused and motivated group.  

Given the unpredictable nature of human behaviour, effective leadership requires a clear vision of goals and unwavering dedication to achieving them and be able to build a good team.  

Encouraging the new generation about the strength of healthy competitive mindset, investing in professional development can go a long way in ensuring that the industry remains vibrant and supportive for the generations to come.  

My hopes for the future 

With a new and thriving environment like Vietnam, I envision a change in our industry towards even greater inclusivity and openness. Breaking down barriers and embracing different perspectives would create a more dynamic community. Not everyone will have the same growth choices so being supportive, even when they do things differently, would be a great start.  

Bartenders are the heartbeat of our industry, and each cocktail crafted is a statement of innovation. By continually pushing boundaries, embracing change, and being respectful to the professional itself, we shape an industry that evolves, is diverse and full of surprises. 

Not everyone will have the same growth choices so being supportive, even when they do things differently, would be a great start.  

Personally, I believe that every bartender holds the power to shift the whole industry if they invest their efforts in actively engaging in education, participating in industry events, fostering creativity, being supportive and unafraid to show their true colours.  

Considering my journey is just beginning, my focus is on doing my best at every step. Being happy standing behind the bar; crafting new drinks; cheering with customers and connecting with friends all over the world is my biggest fortune for now.  The joy of these moments defines my journey, and I aim to continue contributing positively to the industry, leaving a legacy of creativity, camaraderie, and genuine passion for the craft.