As an agricultural country with a diverse range of products, Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a key player in global agriculture. However, to ensure long-term prosperity, it is crucial to push Vietnam’s agriculture towards a more sustainable system.

Sustainable agriculture encompasses three fundamental goals: environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity. These goals form the foundation for a balanced and resilient agricultural system, often referred to as the “three legs” of the sustainability stool.

This break-out session will focus on finding solutions and exploring case studies that address the challenges posed by the intensive monoculture agricultural system in Vietnam. A prime example is coffee production in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, which has led to deforestation and groundwater depletion. Unfortunately, the benefits of this industry have not been equally distributed among farmers and domestic consumers. Instead, international consumers and major multinational agriculture firms have reaped the majority of the profits, taking advantage of low labor costs and lax environmental regulations.

To achieve sustainable agriculture in Vietnam, fundamental institutional changes are required. This includes addressing labor, social, and environmental issues, as well as emphasizing technology and management innovation. By implementing these changes, we can create a more equitable and environmentally conscious agricultural sector that benefits all stakeholders.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts, industry leaders, and practitioners who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for promoting sustainable agriculture in Vietnam. We will explore innovative approaches, successful case studies, and potential solutions to transform the agricultural landscape.

Agenda:

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation: “SMEs and ESG: A Path to Ethical and Profitable Growth” By Thai Dung Linh, Founder of TDL Solutions

01.20 – 02.00: Case Study – Sustainable Partnership Model in Impactful Business

By:

• Nguyen Van Cu, Deputy Director of the Disability Research and Capacity Development Center (DRD)
• Nguyen Trung Hau, Founder of Ngoi Cafe
• Tran Thi Hang, Bio Soil Enhancers, Inc. (BSEI)

02.00 – 02.30 Coffee Break

02.30 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Moderator

Diep Thi Kim Hoan, Head of Sustainability and Environment at DeepC Industrial Zones

Diep Thi Kim Hoan – Head of Sustainability and Environment of DEEP C Industrial Zones.
Starting her journey in sustainability by setting up DEEP C Farm project which provides free organic food baskets to low-income workers in DEEP C Industrial Zones and help local farmers to improve their livelihoods with a new non-chemical farming method, Hoan is now in charge of the sustainability initiative projects of DEEP C Industrial Zones, aiming at becoming the first eco-industrial park in Vietnam.

Speakers

Thai Dung Linh, Founder of TDL Solutions

Thai Dung Linh, founder of TDL Solutions and Vice Chairman of Tin Duc Cooperative, is an entrepreneur and architect with a sustainable vision. With extensive experience from the corporate sector to organic agriculture, he sets the goal of understanding, accompanying, and spreading positive ideas.

Thai Dung Linh not only achieved success in the business field but also contributed positively to the international business community. He is a Strategic Partner of the Belgium-Luxembourg Trade Promotion Association in Vietnam, a member of the European Trade Promotion Association (EuroCham) in Vietnam, and a member of the Vietnam Circular Economy Association. He is also the Ambassador of BestB Capital and the We Share Love Fund, demonstrating the multi-dimensionality of activities from investment to charity.

With enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, Thai Dung Linh is the ideal companion to discuss Sustainable Agriculture, bringing positive solutions for the future.

Nguyen Van Cu, Deputy Director of the Disability Research and Capacity Development Center (DRD)

Mr. Nguyen Van Cu, stands at the forefront of the disability rights movement, bringing over 17 years of unwavering commitment to the field of community development. As the Deputy Director of the Disability Research and Capacity Development Center (DRD), he orchestrates a transformative agenda focused on empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Under his guidance, DRD has become a catalyst for positive change, actively engaging in initiatives that uplift and support PWDs in their journey towards a more fulfilling life.

At the heart of Mr. Cu’s vision is the implementation of comprehensive social services. From mentoring programs to counseling and the dissemination of vital information, he ensures that PWDs have access to the resources they need to overcome challenges and thrive. His strategic approach extends beyond immediate support, aiming to cultivate a sustainable and inclusive environment.

Nguyen Trung Hau, Founder of Ngoi Cafe

Nguyen Trung Hau, Co-founder of the Buy By Heart project with DRD, merges business with social impact, and has had 9 years of experience in sustainable coffee. Mr. Nguyen Trung Hau is the founder of Ngoi Cafe, celebrated for its premium coffee. His book, “Khoi Nghiep Tren Xe Lan,” reflects his entrepreneurial journey.

Based in Cu Chi, Hau started Ngoi Cafe to offer a fresh choice and authentic coffee experience to his community. Beyond business, he actively contributes to the community, donating 3,000 cups of coffee during the COVID-19 epidemic and organizing events like “Pursue Your Passion Without Losing Money.” As a philanthropist, he participated in an auction, directing all proceeds to support people with disabilities through DRD and WEC.

In every endeavor, Nguyen Trung Hau embodies the spirit of a socially responsible entrepreneur, leaving a positive imprint on both business and society.

Tran Thi Hang, Bio Soil Enhancers, Inc. (BSEI)

Ms. Tran Thi Hang is a key contributor to the Women’s Empowerment Club (WEC), a U.S. Government initiative aimed at developing professional skills and empowering mid-career Vietnamese female professionals. The club, funded by The U.S. Consulate General in HCMC since 2017, creates a safe environment for growth through project-based programs.

Professionally, Ms. Hang represents Bio Soil Enhancers, Inc. (BSEI), a U.S. corporation specializing in microbial technology for sustainable agriculture. Her efforts focus on promoting the distribution of poly-microbial agricultural soil enhancement products, contributing significantly to the advancement of Sustainable Agriculture in Vietnam.

In her dual roles, Helen is not only fostering inclusivity through community initiatives but also making strides in sustainable agriculture. Through her commitment, she is actively shaping a future that is both socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

Mental health is not merely the absence of a mental disorder; it encompasses the ability to think, learn, and understand one’s emotions and the reactions of others. It is a state of balance within oneself and with the environment, influenced by various physical, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual factors.

In Vietnam, mental health is a pressing concern, with approximately 15 million people, or around 14.9% of the population, affected by mental illness. Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent conditions. However, the availability of mental health care is limited, with only provincial or central medical facilities offering specialized departments for treatment. Typically, treatment primarily involves medication, while other essential methods such as counseling or psychotherapy have not been adequately developed.

Moreover, Vietnam faces significant challenges in addressing mental health due to societal misperceptions and stigmas associated with mental illness. These stigmas have led to a reluctance to seek diagnosis and delays in receiving appropriate treatment. As a result, many individuals do not receive the mental health care they need.

This break-out session will focus on the solutions already in place for the treatment of mental health issues, both from a hospital and a social enterprise perspective. We will explore how awareness can be created and the connections that have been established with enterprises to provide solutions for mental health in the workforce.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts, healthcare professionals, and representatives from social enterprises who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for addressing mental health in the workforce. We will discuss existing initiatives, successful case studies, and potential solutions to promote mental well-being and support employees in the workplace.

Agenda

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Tran Huyen Nhung, Managing Director, Tam Nhung Social Enterprise

01.20 – 01.40 Presentation: Promoting Positive Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in VietNam By Lesley Miller, Deputy Representative, UNICEF VietNam

01.40 – 02.10 Presentation: “Fostering a holding workplace: employees’ wellbeing” through the lens of I-O psychology applied in workplace mental health matters” by ESI Institute CEO and Founder Dr. Steven Pham

02.10 – 02.40 Coffee Break

02.40 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

• Location: Yellow Room, 2nd Floor, Pullman Saigon Hotel
• Time: 13:00-15:30
• Date: November 30th, 2023

Moderator

Dr. Bui Hong Quan, Scientific Advisor and Senior Lecturer, Viet Ideas and Care & Training Center

Bui Hong Quan is a seasoned professional and advocate for mental health in the workforce. As a Scientific Advisor and Senior Lecturer at Viet Ideas Care & Training Center, he brings a wealth of experience from roles in education, research, and corporate training.

With a Doctorate in Psychology from the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, Mr. Quan has co-authored textbooks and actively contributed to scientific research projects. His commitment extends beyond academia, as he has coached and trained employees at leading companies such as IBM, Lotte, VNPT, and Vingroup on corporate culture, teamwork, and stress management. Bui Hong Quan is poised to share his expertise in the breakout session on “Mental Health in the Workforce,” offering valuable insights for fostering well-being in professional environments.

Speakers

Tran Huyen Nhung, Managing Director, Tam Nhung Social Enterprise

Tran Huyen Nhung, with more than 12 years as a communications leader as well as Chairman of Merck Vietnam’s Corporate Responsibility (CR) Initiative, is always passionate about leveraging his business background and network to Collaborate with stakeholders to improve people’s lives.
In 2022, she decided to leave Merck to focus on social impact work. With partners, she founded the social enterprise Tam Nhung to focus on mental health care for married women in Vietnam, with a team of lawyers, psychologists, and politicians. herself
With love and community responsibility, Tran Huyen Nhung is not only a highly professional and experienced manager but also a leader who always cares about the mental health of workers. Her expertise and dedication make her the ideal speaker on this important topic.

Lesley Miller, Deputy Representative, UNICEF VietNam

Lesley Miller has served with UNICEF for over 20 years in multiple management and program positions, including in the areas of child rights and protection, adolescent health and development, and partnerships. 

Lesley currently leads the UNICEF program in Viet Nam, which focuses on advancing the rights and well-being of the most disadvantaged children and adolescents, working closely with government, civil society, and the private sector. Before Vietnam, Lesley worked in UNICEF offices in Serbia, Cambodia, Geneva, and New York Headquarters. 

Lesley has master’s degrees in public policy and business administration from the University of Michigan.

Lesley takes the lead in ensuring that adolescent mental health and well-being are mainstreamed and prioritized in UNICEF programs on health, education child protection, and social policy.

Dr. Steve Pham, Founding President, ESI Institute

Steve Pham is a catalyst for positive change in workforce mental health. As the Founder and CEO of ESI Institute, he leads research initiatives in global leadership, entrepreneurship, and talent development. Steve’s commitment to applied psychology in human resources and business coaching aligns with his passion for fostering holistic workplace well-being.

With a wealth of international experience, Steve has presented at conferences, connecting with leaders and HR practitioners globally. As a Certified Professional Coach, he is dedicated to professional development and holds memberships in esteemed organizations like ASC, ASCA, APA, SIOP, SHRM, VNHR, and Delta Epsilon Tau National Honor Society.

Steve’s educational journey includes an Honours Bachelor’s in South East Asia Studies, an MBA from Kookmin University, Seoul, Korea, and an Honours Doctorate in Leadership and Learning from Aspen University, CO, USA. As a dynamic speaker in the “Mental Health in Workforce” session, Steve Pham brings expertise and passion to drive positive change in workplace well-being.

In this session, participants will explore the importance of developing effective leaders and the impact they have on driving organizational growth, innovation, and employee engagement.

Leadership development plays a crucial role in preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of today’s rapidly changing business landscape. It involves equipping leaders with the necessary skills, knowledge, and mindset to inspire and guide their teams toward achieving organizational goals.

Effective leadership is not limited to a single individual or a select few; it is a collective effort that permeates throughout an organization. By investing in leadership development, organizations can cultivate a culture of leadership at all levels, empowering individuals to take ownership, make informed decisions, and drive positive change.

The significance of leadership development lies in its ability to foster innovation and adaptability. In an era of constant disruption, organizations need leaders who can think critically, embrace ambiguity, and lead their teams through change. By nurturing leadership capabilities, organizations can create a culture that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and continuous learning, enabling them to stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.

Furthermore, leadership development is instrumental in enhancing employee engagement and retention. Effective leaders inspire and motivate their teams, creating an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and supported. When employees are led by competent and compassionate leaders, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and committed to the organization’s mission and vision.

Agenda

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Bruno Jaspaert, CEO of DEEP C Industrial Zones

01.20 – 01.40: Presentation by Dominik Meichle, Managing Director of Bosch Vietnam

01.40 – 02.10: Presentation: “Leadership in VUCA world” By Madam Kim Anh Le, Vice President VNHR

02.10 – 02.40: Coffee Break

02.40 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

• Location: Blue Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Time: 13.00 – 15.30
• Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Koen Van de Perre, APAC Business Development Director, Televic

Speakers

Bruno Jaspaert, CEO of DEEP C Industrial Zones

Since 2018, Bruno Jaspaert has held the positions of CEO, chairman, and legal representative at DEEP C Industrial Zones, a major industrial zone developer in Vietnam with 26 years of history. Active in Hai Phong and Quang Ninh province, DEEP C manages a land portfolio of 3400 ha around the new deep-sea port of Lach Huyen. Additionally, Bruno serves as the CEO of IAI (Infra Asia Investment), a Hong Kong-based investment holding owned by Ackermans & Van Haren, a Belgian BEL20-listed company.

With over 25 years of experience in sales, business development, production, innovation, and strategy management across Asia and Europe, Bruno has an extensive background in the chemical, logistics, steel, and oil & gas industries. Holding master’s degrees in International Relations and Diplomacy, as well as Commercial Engineering from EHSAL Management University, Bruno is committed to creating sustainable economic growth. His current focus involves transforming DEEP C Industrial Zones into an autonomous eco-industrial park, emphasizing sustainable utilities, water treatment, inland waterway connections, and waste recycling.

Dominik Meichle, Managing Director of Bosch Vietnam

Meichle, the youngest managing director of Bosch Group since its establishment in 2007, has over 11 years of experience with the company, holding various leadership roles. In his recent role, he spent seven years in Japan, where he served as part of the executive management for Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports division with global responsibility for marketing, business strategy, and product management.

During his nine-year tenure in Vietnam, Mallikarjuna achieved significant development for Bosch, making it the largest German investor in the country. Bosch, which entered Vietnam in 1994, operates in HCMC, Hanoi, Danang, and Dong Nai, with two research and development centers and a powertrain solutions plant. The Dong Nai plant is the largest continuously variable transmission (CVT) pushbelt production plant of Bosch Group globally.

Madam Kim Anh Le, Vice President VNHR

Kim-Anh Le holds a Master of HR Management from USA and BS (Pharmacist) from the Medical & Pharmaceutical University of Ho Chi Minh City. Besides, she possessed various certificates related to different aspects such as:

• OD Certified Practitioner (by Institute of OD, USA),
• Master Performance Consultant (organized by the Association of Talent Development, USA),
• Certified NLP Practitioner (by ABNLP, ICI and International Association of NLP Institute),
• Accredited Insight Discovery,
• The Art & Science in using DISC,
• Selling Objectives (Mercuri International – Singapore),
• Segmentation & Targeting – Key Account Management (Aventis),
• Modern Safety Management (from DNV – a Norwegian safety auditor).

Kim-Anh has a total of more than 30 year’s working experience, in which over 25 years in senior management, and exposed in human resources (17 years), production (6 years), and sales (5 years).
She has experience in both strategic & implementation of Human Resources Management, especially in following areas:

• Organization Restructures (to enhance productivity, sales performance, merger & acquisition, delayering excercises, change sales strategies): Aventis Pharma, Avon Cosmetic, Akzo Nobel, Philips, Lewis, Nippon Sanso;
• Developing & refining Performance Management System (Medigroup, PEB, SBOEVN), Competency Framework: PNJ, LHC, SV Tech;
• Living up Company Culture: Aventis Pharma, Heineken, GSK, LHC;
• Refining Remuneration Structures (establishing salary range, designing bonus & sales incentive scheme, benefit policies): Aventis Pharma, SBOEVN, Medigroup;
• Implementing Talent Management and Career Development Plan (for sales reps and for high-potential employees): PNJ, Gen Z Leader Program of VNHR
• Delivering talks & training to help managers and employees at multi-national companies cope with the constant challenges (COVID19, VUCA world): Ikea, GE, Brooks, Bayer, BASF,
  Abbott

As she is passionate about developing human potential and capabilities, she also directly helps develop the ability of orphans and homeless people, disabled people through NGOs (EFD, DRD). In addition, she is invited to share at HR conferences in Vietnam and in the region (HR Singapore, Regional meeting of Samsung, AIA, JLT; VNHR HR Summits).

Patricia Marques, CEO, Viet Idea Food & Beverages Company Limited

Patricia Marques is the CEO for Viet Idea Food & Beverages Company Limited. In this role, Patricia leads the organization in all aspects as well as maintains direct communication with Starbucks Coffee Company, Maxims LLT as well as other stake holders.  In her role Patricia started Starbucks Coffee Vietnam from zero to 100 (literally 100 stores and counting), set up the organization, the processes and put together a team of executives that shared her passion and commitment.  Today she employs more than 1,200 Vietnamese partners and growing. 

Patricia is known for her varied global experience and visionary work in the areas of international growth and cultural adaptation. It is her mission to ensure the successful and sustainable growth of the Starbucks brand in Vietnam, while maintaining deep respect for Vietnam’s traditional coffee culture.

Prior to joining Viet Idea Food & Beverages Company Limited, Patricia was responsible for orchestrating worldwide operational start-ups, future business planning as well as revenue strategy development for international companies such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Starbucks Coffee Company, Panera Bread and in Vietnam, Highlands Coffee.

With a passion for Operations and an impressive track record of strong leadership, Patricia is credited with launching more than 25 International stores in markets as diverse as the United States, Mexico City, Dubai, Riyadh, Zurich, London, Madrid, Bonn, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Istanbul, Puerto Rico, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Philippines, Korea, and Vietnam.

Patricia has been in Vietnam for the past 14 years, she considers Ho Chi Minh City to be her home; loves to travel in the region and in the country, enjoys beach time; has fun playing racket sports, riding motorcycles, passionate about zero waste and all things sustainable and green!

In this session, we will explore the significance of diversity and inclusion in organizations, the challenges they present, and the strategies to create a more inclusive workplace.

Diversity refers to the representation of different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences within a group or organization. Inclusion, on the other hand, focuses on creating an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique insights and talents.

The benefits of diversity and inclusion are far-reaching. Research has consistently shown that diverse teams and organizations outperform their homogeneous counterparts. By bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, organizations can foster innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Moreover, diverse teams are better equipped to understand and serve diverse customer bases, leading to improved business outcomes.

However, achieving true diversity and inclusion is not without its challenges. Organizations must address biases, stereotypes, and systemic barriers that hinder the full participation and advancement of underrepresented groups. It requires a commitment to creating inclusive policies, practices, and cultures that embrace diversity at all levels.

During this panel discussion, we have gathered experts and thought leaders who will share their insights, experiences, and strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion in organizations. We will explore topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, recruitment and retention practices, and the role of diversity in driving innovation and business success.

Agenda

01.00 – 01.20: Presentation by Coach Luong Ngoc Tien, Board Member of HAWEE

01.20 – 01.40: Presentation by WIB SC EuroCham Chairwoman- Sarah Galeski

01.40 – 02.10: Presentation: “Child Rights and Business: Opportunity for Promoting Diversity and Inclusion” By Anjanette Saguisag, Chief of Social Policy and Governance, UNICEF VietNam.

02.10 – 02.30 Presentation: Merck Vietnam – A High-Impact Culture that fosters Diversity, Equality and Inclusion” By Van Nguyen Thi My, Merck, Country HR Lead

02.30 – 02.45: Coffee Break

02.45 – 03.30: Discussion Panel

Break-out room info

• Location: Black Room, 1st floor, Pullman Saigon Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Time: 13.00 – 15.30
• Date: 1 December 2023

Moderator

Kim Francois, Executive Director and Board Member of BeLuxCham Vietnam

Kim Francois, Executive Director and Board Member of BeLuxCham Vietnam, moved to Vietnam in 2022 after almost 13 years in China. With over 10 years as Managing Director of Materialise, a global leader in 3D imaging and printing, Kim has been at the forefront of implementing 3D printing for sustainable manufacturing across industries. Before BeLuxCham, she served as Global Business Development Director at HeyGears, a leading Chinese company using Industry 4.0 technologies to transform healthcare sustainably.

Kim, now part of the Women in Business (WIB) board since July 2023, and a EuroCham board member since August 2023, leverages her extensive experience and sustainability focus to drive growth for the Belgium and Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce.

Speakers

Luong Ngoc Tien

With a decade of international experience spanning Vietnam, China, and the Netherlands, Ms. Tien is the visionary founder of One Life Connection, a boutique company specializing in Mindfulness-based training and coaching in Vietnam since 2012.

As the first Search Inside Yourself Certified Teacher in Vietnam, Ms. Tien brings nearly 20 years of business and people development experience to her transformative work. A standing board member of HAWEE, she actively contributes to leadership forums and prestigious events, emphasizing Emotional Intelligence, Mindfulness, Happiness, and Wellbeing in the workplace.

Holding an MBA from the Rotterdam School of Management, she is recognized for her extraordinary professionalism and holistic approach to transformation. Ms. Tien, with her brilliant mind and intuitive leadership, continues to shape the landscape of mindfulness and leadership development, leaving a lasting impact on those she encounters.

Anjanette Ani Saguisag

Ani’s commitment to child rights spans over two decades, starting as a public interest lawyer for women and children. With extensive experience in social policy, legal reforms, and public investments, she collaborated with various stakeholders in the Philippines.

Joining the United Nations in 2006, Ani focused on child protection from neglect, abuse, and violence. In 2017, she assumed a leadership role in social policy programming. In September 2022, Ani joined UNICEF VietNam as Chief of Social Policy and Governance, leading a dedicated team in supporting the Government of Vietnam to reduce child poverty and integrate child rights into social policies.

An advocate for Child Rights and Business Principles, Ani holds degrees in Industrial Psychology and Law. Married to an environmental lawyer and a mother of five, she views child rights as a personal commitment and eagerly collaborates for a child-friendly Vietnam.

Sarah Galeski

Sarah Galeski, Counsel at Tilleke & Gibbins in Ho Chi Minh City, specializes in labor and employment law, compliance, and dispute resolution. With over 15 years in legal services, she’s been based in Vietnam since 2013, representing multinational companies in various industries.

Recognized by The Legal 500 Asia Pacific, Sarah advises on employment contracts, labor regulations, and global transactions. Beyond her legal role, she actively contributes to business communities, serving on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and as Co-Chair of EuroCham’s Women in Business Sector Committee.

Sarah’s expertise extends to consultations with the International Labor Organization and the European Parliament. Prior to Vietnam, she litigated diverse cases in Canada, showcasing her broad legal experience.

Nguyen Thi My Van

Van has been at the helm as Country HR Head at Merck Vietnam since June 2010, driving HR strategies for a 100-million-Euro business in Healthcare and Life Science with 220 employees. She has led successful initiatives in talent development, retention, and diversity and inclusion, earning Merck’s APAC People and Culture Award.

Her dynamic HR journey includes roles at LogiGear Vietnam and Norfolk Hotel. Van is a leader in Merck WIL-ASIA and holds a SHRM-SCP Credential, showcasing her commitment to HR excellence. She recently completed a Master’s program in Leadership in Service Innovation from the University of Queensland.

Van’s impact is defined by her creative and inspiring HR solutions, business acumen, and inclusive mindset. A Bachelor’s in English Linguistics and Literature from The University of Social Sciences and Humanities laid the foundation for her journey. Van’s dedication to continuous growth is evident in her ongoing pursuit of HR excellence.