Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, a 28-year-old truck driver from Tuyen Quang, has spent more than four years traversing northern Vietnam’s winding roads, challenging stereotypes and earning admiration for her determination and strength.

Minh Nguyet’s videos documenting her life as a truck driver have gone viral on TikTok, captivating audiences with her striking appearance and commanding presence behind the wheel of a 30-ton truck.

The youngest daughter in a family of five, Nguyet chose to follow in her mother’s footsteps. Her mother, a seasoned heavy truck driver, retired after an accident but passed on her knowledge and skills to her daughter.

After earning her accounting degree, Nguyet initially helped her parents with their construction materials business. She spent years riding shotgun with other drivers, observing their techniques, and eventually decided to learn to drive herself.

Nguyet obtained her Class C driving license in 2020 and has since mastered the art of maneuvering heavy trucks. Over the past four years, she has driven through provinces like Quang Ninh, Yen Bai, and Ha Giang, tackling steep, winding mountain roads with confidence.

The challenges of a demanding job

Nguyet typically completes her routes - picking up goods from suppliers and delivering them to dealerships - within a single day. Her longest one-day trip covered 500 kilometers, with the most challenging route being the mountainous road to Ha Giang.

Despite her poise and skill, Nguyet faces her share of challenges. She recalls breaking down on a deserted road at night with a dead phone battery. Remaining calm, she used her truck to charge her phone and called for assistance.

She also embraces the physically demanding side of her job, often unloading and handling heavy cargo herself. Onlookers are frequently amazed to see the petite driver lifting and carrying hefty materials with ease.

Balancing work and femininity

Beyond her life behind the wheel, Nguyet enjoys dressing up and taking care of her appearance. She is meticulous about her health, avoiding smoking and sugary drinks, and staying alert with tea rather than energy drinks.

While driving, Nguyet prioritizes practical, comfortable outfits. Off-duty, she shifts to elegant attire that highlights her slender figure.

Nguyet views her work as a source of pride and fulfillment. Despite the difficulties, she finds joy and excitement in conquering new routes.

“For women, driving heavy trucks requires extra confidence and courage,” she says. “It’s tough, but it’s also rewarding - not just for the livelihood it provides, but for the happiness and thrill of being on the road.”