Cover Female leaders at the cooperation seminar between Standard Chartered and REE

The collaborative discussion hosted by Standard Chartered and REE marked a meaningful step in shifting perceptions and driving action, envisioning a future where women are empowered to participate fully and lead confidently.

On 15 May, Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam, in partnership with Refrigeration Electrical Engineering Corporation (REE), held a high-level seminar in Ho Chi Minh City themed Shaping the Future of Women’s Leadership in Vietnam. The gathering welcomed distinguished female leaders across sectors including banking, finance, manufacturing, infrastructure, retail and real estate. It served as a platform to explore the trajectory of female leadership, alongside the associated challenges and opportunities in Vietnam and beyond.

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The panel featured notable female figures: Ms Stella Choe (Global Head of Corporate Banking, Standard Chartered Bank), Ms Nguyen Thuy Hanh (CEO and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Chartered Vietnam) and Ms Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh (Chairwoman of REE). Together, they offered thoughtful insights, shared personal journeys, and introduced tangible steps for supporting women in leadership roles.

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Above Ms Stella Choe, Global Head of Corporate Banking, Standard Chartered Bank

Addressing attendees, Ms Stella Choe remarked, “This event forms part of my official visit to Vietnam, a market of increasing strategic importance within Standard Chartered’s global vision, and one where we see remarkable potential. At Standard Chartered, we view diverse, inclusive leadership as not just necessary but central to sustainable, long-term growth. This forum is a welcome opportunity for women in leadership to connect, exchange ideas and develop practical approaches to advancing diversity, which underpins resilience and enduring success in the region.”

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Above Ms Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, Chairwoman of REE

Ms Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh spoke to the evolving position of women in society, blending insights from the current business climate with enduring cultural traditions: “In the face of an uncertain global economy, women must continuously learn from proven business models to nurture ambition. We can draw strength from the legacy of Hai Ba Trung, Ba Trieu, and generations of women whose patriotism and profound sense of community responsibility continue to inspire.”

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Above Ms Nguyen Thuy Hanh, CEO and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Chartered Vietnam

Turning to Vietnam’s evolving business landscape, Ms Nguyen Thuy Hanh observed: “Vietnamese women in leadership, particularly in finance and banking, are rising to meet growing demands while leading with assurance and distinct vision. To foster the next generation of female leaders, businesses must nurture inclusive cultures, prioritise leadership development, and ensure equal access to growth pathways. These principles should be deeply embedded within core strategy.”

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Above Female leaders attending the event

Throughout the seminar, participants engaged in dynamic dialogue, examining shared efforts to accelerate change. They explored avenues for collaboration, assessed the unique challenges faced by Vietnamese women in comparison to their global peers, and proposed thoughtful solutions—ranging from mentorship and capacity building to the creation of supportive, inclusive workplaces.

The event concluded with a resounding appeal for collaboration across both public and private sectors, to elevate the role of women in leadership and drive lasting, impactful transformation.

This forum stands as a powerful declaration of commitment to a future in which Vietnamese women are empowered to lead at every level. More than a conversation, it represents a call to action, championing deep-rooted change in mindset and approach, and paving the way for a more inclusive and thriving Vietnam.

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Images: Standard Chartered

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