HBZVN: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us. You’ve garnered attention on social media as an Asian finance worker who recently transitioned to an influencer. Could you tell us why you made this career change?
KC MARIKO: Growing up, my dad always warned me that we could end up homeless—a fear common in Vietnam and also in the States. This fear ingrains a culture obsessed with money. It led me into corporate finance, where I conversed with millionaires until I realized something important: It’s possible to move up from a poor background.
HBZVN: Could you elaborate on that?
KC MARIKO: I achieved my first million before turning 26 through saving and investing. Investing is key to a better life. However, you won’t often hear this on social media because it’s saturated with sales pitches.
HBZVN: That’s an intriguing perspective on social media. Do you think it reinforces this message?
KC MARIKO: I believe social media functions mainly as a giant advertisement, blending seamlessly into our feeds among family, friends, and colleagues. It dictates where to travel, what to wear, and what to eat to enhance oneself. Yet, I’ve learned from millionaires that they don’t seek validation on social media. They pursue their interests, not what social media dictates.
HBZVN: So, you believe social media pressures people to adopt certain lifestyles?
KC MARIKO: It’s simply not feasible to save and spend like a millionaire in one lifetime—unless you’re born wealthy or get lucky.
HBZVN: Do you consider yourself one of those lucky ones?
KC MARIKO: I was extremely fortunate to invest early in some speculative investments and then got into Nvidia. However, achieving millionaire status before 30 isn’t easily replicable—mostly luck and timing for those select few.
HBZVN: That’s a new take on that. Most tend to try to sell courses and say do as I do. You are planning on being different?
KC MARIKO: You are capable. Coming from a small town, struggling with math, I’ve made it. There are various paths to success, but all involve saving and investing. I plan to use my success to help others in the coming years.
HBZVN: Thank you for your time, Mariko.
KC MARIKO: I’d like to thank Harpers for the opportunity for this interview. Thank my mom who has always been there for me. My wonderful publicist Mari, my great friends Allison, Candy & Tia, and finally my amazing partner who makes me laugh and then some, every day.
KC Mariko can be found on youtube.com/moneymariko and Instagram @moneymariko.
Creative Director/Photographer: Joyce Charat @joycevisuals.
Model: KC Mariko.
Stylist: Suna Myles @sunamyles_mua.
Make up: Suna Myles @sunamyles_mua.
Hair: Marilyn Nunez @rootedhairstudiolq.
Producer: K.S. Louis.
Agency: Firebird PR Agency @firebirdpragency.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
