Entrepreneurs from NZ and S.E Asia build ties in Viet Nam
Against the vibrant backdrop of Viet Nam — one of the region’s fastest-growing economies — the 2025 ASEAN Young Business Leaders Initiative (YBLI) Summit was an energising week of open dialogue that went far beyond typical networking. More than 120 entrepreneurs from Southeast Asia and New Zealand gathered with a shared purpose: to connect, exchange insights, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
The summit began with discussions on Viet Nam’s economy and New Zealand’s ties to the country and the wider Southeast Asian region
Hosted by the Foundation in partnership with New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the summit took place in the historic cities of Da Nang and Hue, bringing together changemakers from diverse sectors including agribusiness, technology, creative industries, tourism, and food and beverage.
The summit’s location was a timely choice, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and Viet Nam. The event also marked 30 years of the Foundation’s work connecting New Zealand and Asia, and 50 years of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and ASEAN (The Association of Southeast Asian Nations).
The delegates were welcomed to Viet Nam at a reception on day one by Foundation Asia Honorary Adviser Ms Pham Thi My Le, who is the co-founder of several business networks supporting start-ups and women executives in Viet Nam.
New Zealand Ambassador to Viet Nam Caroline Beresford opened the summit the following morning by highlighting the importance of strong regional relationships and New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to building lasting partnerships with ASEAN. Her remarks set the tone for the days ahead.
Speakers at the summit opening included:
Brook Taylor, group COO and CEO at VinaCapital and co-author of Vietnam: Asia’s Rising Star. Brook provided an analysis of Viet Nam’s economic trajectory and growing influence in the region.
An Nguyen, founder and CEO of An Du Hospitality, who spoke about using tourism to tell Vietnamese stories in meaningful ways.
Dr Tran Phuong Ngoc Thao, vice chairwoman of PNJ and President of JCI Viet Nam, shared her perspective on digital transformation and how young leaders can navigate a rapidly changing business landscape.
Davie Quach, founder of Greenyarn and Bao Lan Textile, encouraged those looking to do business in Viet Nam and Southeast Asia to “listen, localise, and build the right relationships.”
Entrepreneurship programme manager Lingy Au: "Bringing the YBLI network together in one place allowed powerful conversations to unfold...”
Over the following days, delegates participated in peer-led workshops, panel discussions, and cultural visits designed to support both professional and personal growth.
Sessions explored topics such as business resilience, succession planning, leadership wellbeing, digital tools, and market expansion.
These sessions offered participants a chance to share their own knowledge and challenges, learning from each other in practical ways.
CEO and co-founder of climate-tech startup Crustea, Roikhanatun Nafi’ah (Nafi’), said YBLI has enabled global connections that have opened doors for her.
"My business is still young, but I have already made many connections with businesses with potential to collaborate, not only from Indonesia but also from ASEAN and New Zealand," he said.
A highlight for many was the business pitching session, where New Zealand entrepreneurs had three minutes to present their ventures, share aspirations and explore partnerships with their ASEAN counterparts. Participants came from a wide range of industries—from sustainable food and wellness to fashion, tech, and agritech.
“I feel so fortunate to get this opportunity and to connect with other entrepreneurs from so many ASEAN countries,” said New Zealand entrepreneur Alanna Irving, founder of Fundsorter—an online tool that helps charities find and apply for grant funding opportunities.
It wasn’t all conferences and workshops—delegates also had the opportunity to get out and about to experience the local culture
Participants also explored Viet Nam’s economy and culture through visits to local businesses and cultural sites.
Delegates spoke highly of the vibrancy of the host cities, the cultural richness of the programme, and the warm, inclusive tone set from the opening karakia to the manakitanga throughout.
With joint ventures already in motion and follow-up visits underway, the energy and optimism among participants were clear.
Chloe van Dyke, founder and CEO of Chia Sisters (New Zealand), emphasised the importance of continuing collaboration beyond the event: “It’s about building something that continues.”
The Foundation remains committed to supporting this dynamic and growing network—as it continues to bring people together to share ideas, build business relationships, and strengthen ties between New Zealand and Southeast Asia.
Bringing the YBLI network together in one place allowed powerful conversations to unfold—and created momentum for lasting connections,” said Lingy Au, entrepreneurship programme manager.“
The Foundation's entrepreneurship programme supports emerging New Zealand entrepreneurs to build connections and facilitate business relationships in Asia, and supports Asian entrepreneurs to build connections in New Zealand.
The ASEAN Young Business Leaders Initiative (YBLI) is a key part of the New Zealand Government’s ASEAN strategy. The aim of the programme is to facilitate trade and build connections between business leaders and entrepreneurs in New Zealand and Southeast Asia. The Foundation manages the YBLI programme on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
