Celebrating RMIT Vietnam’s 25th anniversary through the eyes of Tran Lam Nam Bao: a design journey of passion, growth, and legacy

Celebrating RMIT Vietnam’s 25th anniversary through the eyes of Tran Lam Nam Bao: a design journey of passion, growth, and legacy

In celebration of RMIT Vietnam's 25th anniversary, we are thrilled to introduce Tran Lam Nam Bao, the talented design student whose logo design was chosen to represent this monumental milestone.

Bao’s creative journey at RMIT has been one of growth, mentorship, and inspiration. In his own words, RMIT has not only shaped his academic skills but also expanded his creative vision, deeply influencing his approach to design.

13 January 2025
4 Vietnamese design students, including Nam Bao, winner of the design competition, wearing faded blue jeans, a grey jacket and red and white shoes with a vermillion cravat and a dress watch, standing with the design studies lecturer Abbas who is dressed in a black polo, black skinny jeans and black dress shoes. He is bearded and wears black wire-rimmed glasses, and a black Casio watch. Tran Lam Nam Bao (second from left) with lecturer Abbas Mteirek and classmates

A passion for design and branding

Bao’s journey as a design student at RMIT began with his enrollment in the Creative Advertising Design program. He was awarded a prestigious scholarship in 2022, setting the stage for his academic and professional development. "RMIT has been a turning point in my life," Bao shares. "It has broadened my perspective, expanding both my technical skills and my artistic vision. My love for the arts and creative fields has only grown since joining RMIT."

His passion for design, particularly branding, led him to participate in the logo design contest for RMIT’s 25th anniversary. Bao’s drive to contribute to such a significant occasion was inspired by his mother's stories about RMIT's early days in Vietnam, when founder Nguyen Xuan Thu played a key role in bringing the university to the country. "When I heard about this contest, I knew I had to be part of it," Bao reflects. "Designing a logo for RMIT’s 25th anniversary felt like an opportunity to honour the legacy of RMIT’s journey in Vietnam."

25 anniversary pixel header banner with text showcasing how the animated logo could be rendered in still format. The 25th anniversary logo is designed to be a moving image, this image showcases how the multiple stills can be used.

The core concept: growth, innovation, and collaboration

Bao’s logo design is a visual representation of RMIT’s growth and its ongoing commitment to contribution and excellence. "The concept '25 Years Together in Vietnam' greatly influenced my design," Bao explains. "It represents how RMIT has grown alongside Vietnam and its people, fostering creativity and innovation. The design is a blend of elements that reflect RMIT's legacy while highlighting the future of education and transformation."

Bao’s creative process involved extensive research, sketching, and refining based on feedback from his mentors. "I was fortunate to receive invaluable insights from my professors, including Thầy Abbas, Thầy Manny, and Cô Chiat," Bao shares. "Their guidance helped me refine the design and bring it to life in a way that truly encapsulates the essence of RMIT."

Winning the contest: a moment of pride and growth

Winning the contest was a transformative experience for Bao. "This is one of the most unforgettable moments of my life as an RMIT student," he reflects. "RMIT has had such a positive impact on me, and being able to contribute something significant to celebrate its 25-year journey is an honor I will always treasure." The recognition has boosted his confidence and strengthened his portfolio, setting the stage for his future career in design. "I used to doubt whether I deserved such opportunities, but after this experience, I feel more confident in my abilities," Bao shares.

Looking ahead: legacy and inspiration

Bao is excited to see his logo come to life through a physical sculpture, a tangible reminder of RMIT’s enduring legacy. "This logo is not just a symbol of my work; it represents the pride of all the RMIT community members—students, faculty, and staff—who have contributed to the university’s success over the years," Bao says.

For future design students, Bao’s advice is simple yet powerful: "Find something you are passionate about, put your heart into it, and keep pushing yourself. Be curious and keep experimenting. Don’t compare yourself to others—create your own path."

As RMIT Vietnam celebrates its 25th anniversary, Bao’s story is a testament to the university's commitment to nurturing creative talent, fostering innovation, and empowering students to make a lasting impact on the world.