In today’s fast-paced digital world, the conversation around mental health in the workplace has never been more critical. This was the central theme of the Women Entrepreneurs Forum 2025, held on March 11, 2025, in Hanoi. The event gathered nearly 200 delegates, including government officials, mental health experts and female entrepreneurs to discuss how mental well-being can drive sustainable success in the business world.
Organized by the Network of trailblazing Women Leaders WELEAD (WeLead) in partnership with the Department of Private Sector and Collective Economy Development under the Ministry of Finance and Imex Pan Pacific Group, the forum provided a much-needed space to address the unique mental health challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in the digital age.
Among the distinguished speakers were Ms. Trinh Thi Huong, Deputy Director of the Department of Private Sector and Collective Economy Development, Ministry of Finance; Prof. Dr. Cao Tien Duc, Vice President of the Vietnam Psychiatric Association and Rector of Buon Ma Thuot University of Medicine and Pharmacy; and Ms. Nguyen Thi Tuyet Minh, Founder and Chairwoman of WeLead. The event also welcomed psychiatrists, psychologists, cybersecurity experts, chairwomen, female entrepreneurs and representatives of associations and organizations all of whom provided valuable insights into the impact of digital transformation on mental well-being.
The forum was part of WeLead’s ongoing initiative, "Enhancing Mental Health for Sustainable Development among Female Entrepreneurs," which builds on UN-ESCAP’s "Promoting Women Entrepreneurs: Building a Gender-Responsive Business Ecosystem" project. Key discussions revolved around two main themes. The first, "Protecting Mental Health in the Digital Era," focused on the risks of digital fatigue, remote work stress, and social isolation, with experts offering solutions such as stress management techniques, work-life balance strategies, and digital detox practices. The second theme, "Mental Health and Sustainable Business Growth," explored the link between emotional resilience and business success, emphasizing the importance of reputation management in an era of misinformation and effective coping strategies for online business pressures.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Tuyet Minh highlighted the unique mental health challenges faced by women in leadership roles. She stated, "Studies indicate that women are more prone to emotional disorders due to biological and social factors. Maintaining mental well-being enables female entrepreneurs to navigate challenges effectively and lead their businesses with resilience." Prof. Dr. Cao Tien Duc reinforced this perspective, adding, "Investing in mental health brings long-term benefits to individuals, businesses, and the economy. Nations that prioritize community-based mental health support create a stronger and more resilient workforce."
The event was supported by Imex Pan Pacific Group, Quang Vinh Ceramics Co., Ltd.; Minh Khai Trading Joint Stock Company; Ut Lien Private Trading Enterprise; Tam Binh Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company; Thanh Hung Co., Ltd.; Minh Duc General Construction Co., Ltd.; Hoang Gia Pearl Joint Stock Company; Bitexco Nam Long Joint Stock Company; Ho Guom Group Joint Stock Company; and Trung Nga Transport Co., Ltd. committed to integrating mental wellness into corporate strategies. As businesses continue to adapt to digital transformation, the Women Entrepreneurs Forum 2025 made it clear: mental health is not just a personal concern but a business imperative. Moving forward, continued investment in mental health resources and supportive work environments will be key to ensuring that female entrepreneurs can thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
