Pham Toan Thinh (Tony)
The teaching here is innovative and supportive- it allows me to explore international relations through lenses that matter to me: political collaboration, creative diversity, and queer and feminist theory.
Pham Toan Thinh—known to most as Tony—is a second-year international student at the Australian National University, pursing a Bachelor of International Relations with a major in Mandarin. From Vietnam, Tony came to Canberra to immerse himself in global politics and diplomacy in an academic environment he describes as “open-minded and respectful.”
“At ANU, I’ve found a space that encourages curiosity, creativity, and truth,” Tony says. “The teaching here is innovative and supportive- it allows me to explore international relations through lenses that matter to me: political collaboration, creative diversity, and queer and feminist theory.”
Tony was recently awarded the ANU Chinese Language Prize – Modern Chinese 2, an achievement that deepens his passion for learning Mandarin and affirms his choice to pursue it as a major.
Since arriving, Tony has made the most of the university’s vibrant, student-led opportunities. From musical performances in Chinese, to judging debates and stepping into the shoes of diplomats during Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, he’s crafted a university experience defined by passion and confidence.
His favourite course so far has bee International Political Economy. “One lesson that stayed with me is how politics and economics, when used thoughtfully, can become powerful tools for peace and global cooperation,” he says. “It’s where realism and idealism can meet- and that inspires me.”
Outside the classroom, Tony finds inspiration in Canberra’s unique proximity to government and diplomacy. “Meeting Julia Gillard and Penny Wong was unforgettable,” he says. “Back home, access to politicians isn’t common- so being able to visit over 15 embassies here and speak with diplomates has been incredibly meaningful. They embody the values I want to promote in global politics.”
Tony is heavily engaged in the university’s extracurricular activities. He is currently a research intern at the Embassy of Ecuador in Canberra, where he prepares policy papers, assists with event coordination, and advises on political matters. Previously, he was the Graphic Designer for the ANU International Relations Society, creating visual content and promoting embassy tours. As the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for the ANU Debating Society, Tony helped ensure respectful dialogue and judged student debates. He also contributes to the ANU Society for the United Nations as part of the secretariat team, helping to run the annual national Model United Nations conference. A talented musician, Tony has performed at the Food Co-op and at the Chinese Student Talent Show, where he sang and played piano, guitar, and ukulele—including a memorable rendition of Teresa Teng’s The Moon Represents My Heart. Through these experiences, Tony has developed a wide range of skills in leadership, advocacy, public speaking, creativity, and cultural diplomacy.
When asked what advice he’d give new students, Tony doesn’t hesitate: “Start doing the things that scare you. Whether that’s debating in public, performing live, or running for leadership roles—it’s how you build the confidence to face university, your career, and life with clarity and control. Like Elle Woods said, believing in yourself is your greatest asset.”
Tony plans to pursue a master’s degree in international law and hopes to contribute to global development through roles in organisations like the United Nations. His vision? A career that bridges cultures, promotes security, and fosters meaningful global change.
