Cover For Dr Nguyen Thuy Anh, a woman’s journey is not only measured by milestones of success, but also by her ability to sustain and support the next generation

Thuy Anh encapsulates her vision in an evocative image: “We are standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, and the next generations will have the opportunity to stand on our shoulders.”

Dr Nguyen Thuy Anh, one of the representative figures in the field of education in Vietnam, graduated with a PhD in Education from the Pedagogical University (Russia). She has spent many years researching psychology, emotional education and active learning methods for both children and adults. Alongside inspiring learning through creative educational activities, she is also the founder of the “Reading with Children” Club, a space that nurtures reading habits, listening skills and understanding within families and communities.

At SHE Speaks 2025, Dr Nguyen Thuy Anh assumed the role of host, skilfully connecting stories and drawing out thoughtful reflections from speakers, helping to shape a meaningful dialogue on women, education and gender equality.

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Education is the foundation of equality

At SHE Speaks, Thuy Anh emphasised: “More efforts are needed in education. To truly understand gender equality, gender equity, gender bias, gender stereotypes. It is a right to be proud when we feel we are women and join hands together.”

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Above Nguyen Thuy Anh, PhD in Education and founder of the “Reading with Children” Club

She recognises that many women still have to prove their abilities more than men in order to be acknowledged. Closing this gap, she believes, does not come from radicalising the story of gender equality, but from creating a safe environment where women can ask questions, share openly and support one another. Such a space allows them to set aside competition and move towards connection and solidarity.

In closing, Dr Nguyen Thuy Anh left a simple yet profound message: stand firmly on the shoulders of those who came before, and be ready to become a foundation for the steps that follow. For the ecosystem of women supporting women is not just an idea, but a mission to be nurtured daily.

Respect and empowerment – the core of development

Dr Nguyen Thuy Anh always stresses that for women to reach their full potential, it is not only about creating opportunities but also respecting personal decisions. She believes everyone has the right to choose their own path, and that such choices deserve to be listened to, even when they differ from the expectations of society or family.

Read more: SHE Speaks: Portraits of the speakers leading the powerful dialogue

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Above Nguyen Thuy Anh, PhD in Education and founder of the “Reading with Children” Club

In the stories she recounts, the images of parents willing to let their children decide their own majors, or leaders who stand firmly by female employees during difficult times, become proof of the value of trust. No imposition, no rigid roadmap, but empowerment that enables each individual to take responsibility for their own steps.

For Thuy Anh, respect and empowerment are not only principles of leadership but also seeds of independence and courage. When women are able to stand on their own, they are strong enough to support others, creating a circle of solidarity that spreads without end.

Tatler Asia
Above SHE Speaks 2025 is part of the Front & Female Awards – an annual programme organised by Tatler Asia to honour female pioneers

SHE Speaks 2025 is part of the Front & Female Awards, an annual programme organised by Tatler Asia to honour female pioneers. Themed “Women Advancing Women – From Sustainable Roots to Community Aspiration”, SHE Speaks 2025 aims to create a space where pioneering women connect, broaden their thinking, share their journeys and spread the driving force for progress. In doing so, each woman is empowered to support others, moving forward together to reach new heights with confidence, intention and courage.