Empowering Women Leaders in Vietnam: Insights from a Roundtable Discussion
Collaboration of Standard Chartered and REE Enhancing Equal Leadership Opportunities in Vietnam
In a progressive move, Standard Chartered Bank, alongside REE Corporation, recently organized a roundtable event in Ho Chi Minh City focused on fostering women's leadership in Vietnam. The event assembled influential women from various industries, such as banking, finance, manufacturing, infrastructure, retail, and real estate, to delve into the evolving nature of women's role in leadership, as well as the challenges and opportunities they encounter in Vietnam and beyond.
During her keynote speech, Stella Choe, Standard Chartered's Global Head of Corporate Coverage, stressed the importance of diverse and inclusive leadership as a cornerstone of long-term sustainable growth. Reflecting on the significance of the event, she acknowledged the growing importance of Vietnam in Standard Chartered's global footprint.
REE's Chairwoman, Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, underscored the significance of lifelong learning, drawing inspiration from successful business models as well as historical Vietnamese female figures who demonstrated courage, resilience, and devotion to their communities and country.
Recognizing the growing influence of women leaders in Vietnam, particularly within finance and banking, Standard Chartered's CEO and Head of Banking & Coverage, Nguyen Thuy Hannh, emphasized the need for companies to cultivate inclusive cultures, invest in leadership development, and ensure equal access to growth opportunities, integrating these principles into their business strategies to develop a strong pipeline of female leaders.
Standard Chartered has been a valuable partner in Vietnam's growth journey, combining international expertise with in-depth local understanding. The bank's successful placement of REE's inaugural $100 million bond in 2019 supported REE's expansions and the development of environmentally-friendly buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, such as Etown 6 – the first Grade A green building with LEED Platinum Certification. This latest collaboration, including co-hosting the roundtable, demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable financing, inclusive leadership, and long-term progress in Vietnam.
Setbacks and Challenges
Women leaders often confront stereotypes, biases, and societal expectations that hinder their career advancement. Balancing work and personal responsibilities can be a challenge, as societal norms can impose additional burdens. Access to opportunities, such as training, mentorship, and leadership positions, may also be limited, creating inequities between women and men.
Opportunities for Women Leaders
As awareness of the value women bring to leadership roles increases, so do the opportunities for their advancement. Global events, such as the Global Women's Leadership Awards Gala Dinner and the Global Summit of Women, recognize women leaders' achievements and provide platforms for discussing women's leadership across different sectors. Networking opportunities are plentiful at events like these, helping women connect with other leaders worldwide. Furthermore, mentorship programs provide guidance and support to women aspiring to take on leadership roles.
Women leaders at the event. - Photo courtesy of the bank
Embracing the Future
By applying insights from discussions like the women leadership roundtable in Vietnam, efforts can be made to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women leaders. Leveraging global opportunities while addressing local challenges can empower more women to step into leadership positions, contributing to the country's sustainable growth and development.
- The roundtable event highlighted the importance of diverse and inclusive leadership in fostering long-term sustainable growth, as emphasized by Stella Choe, Standard Chartered's Global Head of Corporate Coverage.
- REE's Chairwoman, Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, emphasized the significance of lifelong learning, inspiring women leaders to follow in the footsteps of historical Vietnamese female figures who demonstrated courage, resilience, and devotion.
- Standard Chartered's CEO and Head of Banking & Coverage, Nguyen Thuy Hannh, called upon companies to cultivate inclusive cultures, invest in leadership development, and ensure equal access to growth opportunities for women.
- In Vietnam, women leaders often face setbacks and challenges, including stereotypes, biases, and limitations in access to opportunities, but the growing significance of their roles in finance and banking provides valuable platforms for discussion and mentorship.
- Global events, like the Global Women's Leadership Awards Gala Dinner and the Global Summit of Women, recognize women leaders' achievements and offer opportunities for networking and connecting with other leaders worldwide.
- Mentorship programs, such as those supported by Standard Chartered, provide guidance and support to women aspiring to take on leadership roles in various industries, including business, finance, and AI, which are increasingly relevant in the context of fintech and health-and-wellness industry.
- By embracing these opportunities and insights, more women can step into leadership positions, contributing to Vietnam's sustainable growth and development, and setting a powerful example for women across cultures.
