The sad life of the handsome 1.79m tall runner-up who is about to become a doctor

Dinh Ta Bi shares his journey from medical student to 2nd runner-up of Mr World Vietnam, his difficult childhood and motivation from his family.

- From an ordinary medical student to the 2nd runner-up of Mr World Vietnam, how has Dinh Ta Bi's life changed over time?

The title of 2nd Runner-up of Mr World Vietnam helped me to enter a new chapter in my life. Life became busier with schedules, media and community projects. Although I had difficulty balancing between studying and working, the busyness helped me to mature.

I am happy that I have made my mother proud by stepping out of my comfort zone to conquer a new journey. This title is not only a halo but also a reminder for me to live responsibly and contribute more to my profession and the community.

Dinh Ta Bi is a H're ethnic, from Gia Lai , pursuing two parallel paths: medicine and art.

- You shared about your childhood in a level 4 house that was often flooded. How did those memories affect your personality and outlook on life?

Growing up in a poor family, I witnessed my parents always sacrificing to give all their love to their children. Despite the difficult circumstances, I always felt the boundless sacrifice so I did not allow myself to be weak or give up.

The biggest motivation for me to strive is the desire to see my parents proud. The years of living in a cramped house and having to eat poorly taught me that there is no easy road. Every time I face difficulties, I believe more that as long as we persevere, live responsibly and keep the faith, we will overcome everything.

- Your family has a tradition of medicine with your father and two sisters being doctors. How does the pressure and expectations from your family affect the path you have chosen?

I am lucky because my family does not put too much pressure on me. My father always guides his sisters to have stable jobs but also respects each person's interests and passions.

I cannot say that I am not passionate about medicine because it was a carefully considered choice. Whenever I think about becoming a doctor, I feel especially happy. Currently, my family fully supports me in developing the path I have chosen.

Dinh Ta Bi with his mother and two sisters.

- What memorable memories do the life and people of ethnic minorities leave you with?

I always feel the peace from the village where I was born - the place where I return to find peace of mind, as if all worries disappear.

When I think of my village, I think of my father more. He is a testament to the saying “live for others”. The villagers loved my father because he was always willing to help them.

My father was born into a poor ethnic minority family, so he understood the difficulties of his people. That is why he always wanted to return to help the community and contribute to those in the same situation. He taught me that: "Life is not only about living for yourself but also for others" - a lesson about compassion, sharing and caring for those around you.

- Can you share a memorable memory about your mother's sacrifice?

When I was born, my mother only weighed 32kg but had to do all kinds of jobs from selling porridge, groceries, sticky rice, bread to selling fruits to pay for the education of three children. My mother always worked quietly, without a single complaint.

I remember the times when my mother ate young jackfruit seeds or rice with salt, leaving the fish and meat for her children. Those actions taught me the lesson of unconditional sacrifice and limitless love. Every step I take today, I think of my mother and that is the motivation for me to try harder.

Dinh Ta Bi overcame many losses and difficulties, motivated by his late father's last wishes and his mother's silent sacrifices.

- You chose to study at Buon Ma Thuot University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Where did this decision come from?

In grade 9, I planned to apply to Cultural School 3 of the Ministry of Public Security of Dak Lak province but did not choose this path.

My father's last wish was to see me continue my medical career. As I started studying this field, I gradually fell in love with it and became passionate about it. Now, I am happy with my decision and proud that I am about to fulfill my father's last wish.

- Your two older sisters also participated in beauty pageants. How did they influence or advise you?

When they knew I was participating in Mr World Vietnam, they not only encouraged me but also became my dedicated advisors. They advised me to participate with a relaxed mindset and to focus on expressing myself honestly, because confidence and individuality are the key factors for success.

They taught me that this is not just a beauty contest but also an opportunity to learn and develop myself, to show strength, resilience and intelligence.

- How did independent life and your father's passing affect you?

When my father passed away, I was completely devastated. That incident helped me to become more mature, especially in being independent and supporting my mother. I realized that I could not live like before, I had to take care of myself to ease my mother's hardship.

I go to school like any other student but cook at home to save money and take care of my finances. Before, I earned money from many jobs such as selling clothes, tutoring and working as a fitness trainer. Now, I can earn money from modeling and art but still maintain the spirit of independence and learning.

Second runner-up of Mr World Vietnam Dinh Ta Bi in medical attire. The ethnic minority man overcame difficult circumstances to pursue two great passions in life.

- After the title of 2nd Runner-up, between the medical and artistic paths, which will be your priority?

In the near future, my priority is still the path of a doctor. The job of saving people requires high expertise and absolute seriousness, so I always devote the greatest concentration and effort to medical work.

I believe that art and medicine are not contradictory but complementary. In the future, I hope to combine both passions and use my voice to spread positive messages about health.

I am focusing on completing my studies and preparing to graduate in August 2025. After that, there will definitely be more activities as the runner-up of Mr World Vietnam.

Dinh Ta Bi introduces the communal house:

Photo: FBNV

H're runner-up Dinh Ta Bi: His mother suffered a lot, working all kinds of jobs to support her three siblings . The second runner-up of Mr. World Vietnam 2024 - Dinh Ta Bi lived in a rented house and worked as a model to earn extra income to support his family. His two older sisters - Dinh Thi Thuy Trang and Dinh Y Quyen also competed in beauty pageants.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/qua-khu-co-cuc-cua-a-vuong-nguoi-dan-toc-h-re-dinh-ta-bi-sap-thanh-bac-si-2387371.html