RT4D Celebrates International Women's Day!

Soukitta participated on:

• RT4D’s RISP Project: Gender Equality and Disability Inclusion in Sustainable E-Commerce Development after COVID-19 - a Case Study of Laos
• RT4D’s 24 AISP IP Laos Project, "Accelerating Women's Advancement in Intellectual Property

Soukitta founded the Luang Prabang Handicraft Group for People with Disabilities, which aims to promote livelihoods for people with disabilities and disadvantaged individuals in her community. She is 43 years old, a single mother to four children, and has a physical disability (paralysed right leg) due to polio.

What are the most pressing challenges in grassroots communities in Laos?

Grassroots communities in Laos face many challenges, primarily poverty, lack of access to education, and limited income opportunities. Women, people with disabilities, and those from marginalised communities often do not have the same opportunities as others. In my community, I have witnessed many people struggling with financial instability, which motivated me to establish this group.

How can we ensure that women and girls, particularly those from ethnic minorities or rural areas, are not left behind in economic and educational opportunities?

We must provide education and vocational training for women and girls to equip them with the skills needed for employment and financial independence. I have seen that building networks and encouraging women to take leadership roles are crucial in addressing inequality.

What role do men and community leaders play in driving gender equality, and how can we encourage more male allies to support women’s empowerment in Laos?

Men and community leaders play a crucial role in promoting gender equality. I believe that providing education and training can help them understand the importance of equality and how they can contribute to supporting women. Building partnerships and fostering open discussions will encourage men to be more engaged and take action to promote gender equality in their communities.

Mdm Nguyen participated on RT4D’s AISP Project: Regional Business Engagement Roundtable, held in Laos.

Minh is the Founder and CEO of WELEAD. WeLead is a network of trailblazing women leaders who are driving change towards a more equal, professional, and sustainable future. She is also a Founder of the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network (AWEN), the Chair of the Global Summit of Women in Vietnam, and Former Chair of the Vietnam Women Entrepreneur Council (VWEC) under VCCI. She was the winner of the ASEAN Prize 2023, in recognition of her efforts AWEN.

What are the key barriers preventing women from advancing in leadership and entrepreneurship in Vietnam?

A lack of opportunities holds women back. Cultural norms and gender roles - traditional gender roles often place the responsibility of child-rearing and household duties on women. Limited access to funding - investors may have stereotypes or biases that view women as less capable of managing businesses or risk. Lack of networking opportunities, balancing work and family, etc.

In what ways have you seen gender equality evolve in the business sector in Vietnam over the years?

The Labor Code (revised in 2019), the National Strategy on Gender Equality, the Law on Supporting SMEs, and degrees and programs on women’s economic empowerment. These are efforts from the Vietnam government, VCCI, and associations.

With these policies and support from the government, the number of women-led businesses increased from 4% in 2009 to 27.5% this year.

Are there particular industries or companies that you have noticed leading the way in promoting women's leadership?

• Mrs. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, the founder and CEO of VietJet Air, is often cited as one of Vietnam’s most successful and influential businesswomen.
• Mdm. Thai Huong, Chair of TH True Milk and Mrs. Nguyen Thị Tra My, Co-founder and CEO of PAN Group, both pioneers in agriculture.

Could you share an example of a mentorship program, network, or policy that has particularly impacted women’s professional growth?

VWEC (I was the Chair for over 10 years) has submitted policy recommendations to VCCI and other stakeholders on supporting women in the revised Labor Code, the Gender Equality Law, the National Strategy on Gender Equality, and sub-law decrees. We also submitted our recommendations on supporting women in starting and developing businesses to the Law on Supporting SMEs and a National five-year plan for developing small and medium enterprises.

Sreya Hong participated on TGEI’s Project: Progress Gender Equality for All in the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia.

Sreya is the Deputy Chief of Office at the Sihanoukville International Port Customs and Excise Branch of the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE). She assists the Chief of Office and Branch Director with administrative and management tasks, ensuring that action plans and daily operations are carried out smoothly and effectively. Her Customs branch operates at Cambodia’s largest seaport and has 71 customs officers. Sreya was promoted in 2023, when no female leaders were at the port. Today, there are three female leaders.

What policies or government-led initiatives have been most effective in advancing women’s empowerment and economic participation in Cambodia?

Several initiatives have significantly contributed to advancing women's empowerment, including:

• Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Women’s associations, i.e. Girl Guides Association of Cambodia, women networks within Customs, which provide platforms for professional support and advocacy.
• Gender-responsive policies, such as encouraging more women during job recruitment.
• Opportunities for promotion and training, allowing women to enhance their skills and advance their careers.

What can be done to accelerate women’s representation in decision-making roles?

To increase women's participation in leadership roles, we must:

• Support and provide opportunities for women to lead with confidence
• Enhance women’s capabilities through training and mentorship programs, ensuring they are well-equipped for leadership positions. Everyone should value women's representation and qualifications rather than stereotypes.

What steps can businesses and civil society take to collaborate with the government in advancing gender equality, particularly in rural areas?

Collaboration between the government, businesses, and civil society can drive real change, particularly in rural areas, through:

• Training and mentorship programs equipping women with skills for leadership, emotional intelligence and empowerment
• Advocacy and calls for action, encouraging policies and initiatives that promote gender equality at all levels of society, especially women in rural areas.

What is one key advice or action you would give to women in government leadership roles to accelerate change within their organisations?

Women in leadership play a crucial role in paving the way for future generations. As role models, they prove that women can break barriers and take leadership positions at the highest levels.

To accelerate change, it is essential that women leaders:

• Mentor and support other women, ensuring that knowledge and opportunities are shared and enhanced.
• Create women’s networks, fostering collaboration and collective empowerment.
• Challenge outdated norms and stereotypes, advocating for policies and environments that encourage equal participation.