Front & Female Awards 2025 announces judging panel of pioneering leaders

Although not present in person, other council members also contributed their expertise and insight to the judging process:

• Dr Bui Tran Phuong – Historian and former Principal of Hoa Sen University
• Ms Nguyen Thuy Anh – Educator, founder and head of the Reading with Children Club

Their participation and valued contributions ensured absolute fairness in selecting and honouring the most deserving figures at the Front & Female Awards 2025.

Under the guidance of Ms Nikita Chu – Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Vietnam – the Judging Council carefully reviewed the six categories of the Front & Female Awards 2025 with focus and openness. The discussion began with a central question: “What is the core criterion by which to evaluate the pioneering spirit of women today?”

From there, nominations were assessed through a holistic lens, considering leadership, innovation, inspiration and impact over the past 18 months. The panel paid particular attention to efforts that amplify women’s voices and roles in society, alongside the positive values they contribute to their communities whether on a large or local scale. Empowering others, championing social causes and breaking gender barriers were also seen as vital factors in defining the image of today’s pioneering women.

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From this perspective, the judging session began with the first Business Leader Award category, honouring women in business who have played a significant role in advancing female leadership in the corporate sphere. Here, the Judging Council examined a central question: “In today’s volatile economic climate, what qualities must a female entrepreneur prioritise to sustain influence and ensure resilience in leadership?”

To define the criteria, Ms Huynh Thi Xuan Lien, Vice President of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Women Entrepreneurs (HAWEE) and Chairwoman of the Board of Members of CAO (CAF), drew on her wealth of experience to present a multi-dimensional analysis. According to her, a leader worthy of this title should embody four key qualities. The first is management capacity, reflected in real performance and the ability to steer a business through challenging times. The second lies in their leadership journey: how they direct an organisation, nurture culture, and foster a positive working environment. The third concerns recognised achievements, not only measurable outcomes but also personal imprints left on the development path. Lastly, the breadth of influence and the value they share with both the community and their industry.

Using this four-pillar framework, the jury carefully reviewed each profile to identify the most exceptional and inspiring figure for this year’s Business Leader Award.

Following the Business Leader Award, the panel moved to the Founder Award category, centred on creativity and inner strength. This year’s nominees are all individuals unafraid of risk, determined to build and develop new business models. To select the most deserving candidate, the council posed the question: “What makes a pioneering founder?” The answer, they agreed, goes beyond introducing a new idea. It requires the ability to transform vision into concrete action, the courage to embrace risk, and the determination to follow one’s chosen path despite obstacles.

A true founder sees opportunities where others see challenges, constantly learns, and expands their influence. Beyond building a business, they create communities, nurture teams, shape cultures and introduce new systems of value. These are the benchmarks the council used to identify the outstanding representative for the Founder Award.

While the Founder Award centred on pioneering spirit, the Innovation Award turned to the ability to drive breakthroughs. The judges considered innovation through multiple lenses: strategic thinking, business models, technology, and practical application in both society and the market. What animated the discussion was the way each story of innovation was dissected in layers, from feasibility and sustainability to adaptability within today’s context. This process transformed the selection into a comprehensive review, ensuring that only those who truly redefine the boundaries of innovation emerged as finalists.

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Rising Champion is among the most anticipated categories at the Front & Female Awards 2025. This award recognises young trailblazers with the courage to break through, shine in new arenas and embrace challenges. They represent the next generation of talent, carrying immense potential and promising to inspire endlessly in the years ahead.

At the judging session, the panel praised the distinctive approaches of each nominee from technology start-ups and content creation to bold ventures into social initiatives. These young figures are not content with following established paths. Instead, they push boundaries, raise fresh questions and redefine the disciplines they pursue. The judges were especially struck by the autonomy, critical thinking and firm sense of action shown by the nominees, regardless of their age. It was clear proof of a new generation of young women unafraid to step forward and carve their own way.

After a spirited exchange about the pioneering spirit of the next generation in the Rising Champion category, the mood of the judging session shifted to a quieter reflection as discussion turned to the Social Impact Award, honouring those who bring about positive change in the community, often in silence.

In this category, the jury did not rely on numbers or scale of influence alone, but sought to understand the story behind each action. How can a small initiative move hearts? What drives a person to persist in work that may not draw attention, yet carries profound value for society?

Many nominations prompted deep reflection on the quiet perseverance of women who chose the longer road, putting the community before themselves. Some dedicated their time to supporting children in remote areas, building a better future from the simplest of beginnings. Others developed creative solutions to improve mental health or to foster equality. These stories sparked an emotional and meaningful discussion, giving the jury a strong foundation for making their final decision and identifying the most deserving names.

The Wellbeing Award marked the closing stage of the Front & Female Awards 2025. This honour is reserved for individuals or initiatives that enhance quality of life physically, mentally and emotionally within the community. In this category, the jury devoted considerable time to examining the nominees’ achievements, while exploring their methods, approaches and long-term vision. Each story proved to be a wellspring of inspiration. Some quietly created healing spaces for those around them, while others introduced innovative medical practices aimed at supporting mental health. Whether rooted in science or emotion, these contributions reflected a profound understanding of the importance of self-care in an ever-changing world.

The judging session for the Front & Female Awards 2025 officially drew to a close, marking a milestone in celebrating women driving positive change in society. After hours of thoughtful discussion and the sharing of diverse perspectives, the jury reached consensus in selecting the leading nominees across this year’s seven award categories.

These inspiring stories will be spotlighted at the Front & Female Awards 2025 on 22 August. Join Tatler Vietnam for an evening of celebration, where we honour the pioneering women of the year.

Let us look back at moments from the judging session of the Front & Female Awards 2025:

About Front & Female Awards 2025

The Front & Female Awards honour and recognise individuals, especially women, who are creating meaningful change and advancing gender equality. By showcasing initiatives and achievements across a wide spectrum of fields, the Front & Female Awards 2025 celebrate the influential voices of pioneering women, sparking dialogue and inspiring communities.

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