The Embassies of Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland in Ha Noi (the G4), in collaboration with the Viet Nam Women’s Museum, co-hosted the seminar “Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers” in Ha Noi on October 8.
Held in celebration of Vietnamese Women’s Day (The seminar welcomed the G4 Ambassadors, the Director and representatives of the Viet Nam Women’s Museum, along with over 100 participants from various sectors—including representatives of Vietnamese and international organizations, and students from Hanoi-based universities.
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the G4, Ambassador of Norway to Viet Nam Hilde Solbakken stated, gender equality is not just a goal—it is a foundation for peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
Today’s seminar is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared commitment to empowering women to lead, innovate, and inspire, she noted.
The seminar featured four distinguished female leaders who shared personal stories of overcoming barriers and gender stereotypes to achieve success, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, Deputy Director, Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam; Chairwoman, EY Vietnam Consulting Co., Ltd. Nguyen Thuy Duong; Founder and Chairwoman, Detech Coffee Dao Ngoc Anh and Founder and Director, WildAct Viet Nam Trang Nguyen.
The speakers shared their inspirational journeys to break barriers, lead with purpose, and empower other women—demonstrating the transformative impact of female leadership across diverse sectors. Their stories ranged widely: from leading in peace and security, to championing environmental protection, driving entrepreneurship, and creating social impact through business.
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Viet Nam Pauline Tamesis also addressed the audience, underscoring the importance of international cooperation and reaffirming the UN’s commitment to advancing gender equality in Viet Nam and globally.
A panel discussion was moderated by Ambassador of Switzerland to Viet Nam Thomas Gass, brought together Ambassador of New Zealand to Viet Nam Caroline Beresford; UN Women Country Representative in Viet Nam Caroline Nyamayemombe; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Thị An, President of the Ha Noi Association of Women Intellectuals; and the four featured speakers.
The panel explored key topics such as barriers to women’s leadership, the role of men in promoting gender equality, differences between public and private sectors, and international best practices.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador of Canada to Viet Nam Jim Nickel emphasized the vital role of gender equality in shaping a fair, prosperous, and resilient society.
He reaffirmed the G4 Embassies’ strong commitment to working alongside the Government of Viet Nam to promote the rights and leadership of women and girls across all areas of life./.ategies to enhance women’s participation in leadership roles. With the theme “Breaking Barriers”, the event sought to inspire women to recognize their potential, challenge societal norms, and pursue their aspirations.
