Tạ Lâm Nhi, 11, won Model Kid Vietnam 2026 at the final in Ho Chi Minh City on October 18. She finished ahead of 14 other contestants after challenges involving runway performance, movement and photographic posing.
Hoàng Gia Nguyễn, eight, Hà Trần Tuệ Lam, seven, and Bùi Ngọc Khánh An, 12, received the runner-up titles.
Circus skills provide a distinctive element
During the top-15 runway challenge, Lâm Nhi performed a somersault in the middle of the catwalk. The movement built on skills she had already shown during the selection stage.
After advancing to the final seven, she posed with geometric shapes on stage, using different positions and expressions for the camera. That task tested a different aspect of performance from the runway round.
Lâm Nhi is from Hanoi and her parents are performers with the Vietnam Circus Federation. Her movement skills and natural expression helped her attract attention early in the programme before she became a prominent contestant on coach TyhD's team.
Coaches highlight initiative and confidence
TyhD said Lâm Nhi regularly volunteered to represent the team in difficult challenges. Judges recognised that initiative and consistency alongside her physical skills.
The final also featured young rapper Xệ Xệ. Parents and coaches spoke about contestants becoming more confident, moving beyond their initial nervousness to perform before an audience.
Produced by MultiMedia JSC, Model Kid Vietnam is intended for children aged five to 13 with an interest and ability in fashion performance. The 2026 season contained five challenge episodes, with the stated aim of developing presentation skills and confidence as well as selecting a winner.