How Vietnamese Youth Gain A Competitive Advantage In Today’s Workforce

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In Vietnam, a growing number of businesses are bringing with them a strong focus on sustainability. This shift is not only about environmental consciousness but also about creating a culture of long-term responsibility in business practices. Given such a context, young professionals are facing new opportunities and challenges that demand a deep comprehension of sustainability concepts.

In this episode of the Vietnam Innovators podcast, we will meet guest Vo Ngoc Tuyen, Founder and CEO of Dear Our Community (DOC), an organization specializing in providing content, skills training, and creating job opportunities in the field of CSR and sustainable development, especially for young Vietnamese people.

The Rise Of Sustainable Development

The government’s commitment to reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2050 has created a wave of opportunities and conversations around sustainable business practices. But as new challenges emerge, there is a need for young talent to be not only aware of, but actively engaged in these changes as well.

The importance of sustainability, particularly ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), is increasingly discussed, but the gap lies in how to apply this knowledge in real-world job environments. The question then becomes: How can young people learn to make sustainability a part of their everyday skill set?

The Rising Demand For ESG-Centric Jobs

The shift towards ESG-focused roles has been one of the most notable developments in the labor market. Across various sectors, from finance to tech, businesses are looking for professionals who can help them meet sustainability targets, promote social equity, and maintain transparent governance practices. As a result, new job categories are emerging, requiring a unique set of skills and expertise in areas such as sustainability reporting, corporate social responsibility, and ethical governance.

This trend is not limited to large corporations; even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are starting to integrate ESG into their hiring practices, recognizing its importance in attracting investors and customers who prioritize sustainable and responsible businesses.

“If you are applying for a job in a company that prioritizes sustainability, you must understand ESG, not only as an abstract concept, but as an actionable framework that governs all aspects of the business,” shared Ms. Tuyen.

Take marketing, for example. In the past, marketing was primarily about sales techniques, content creation, and advertising strategies. Today, if you are working for a company that prioritizes sustainability, your marketing efforts must reflect that. Companies are increasingly looking for individuals who also understand how sustainability impacts business decisions.

This makes sustainability literacy one of the most critical skills for young people entering the workforce today. The key takeaway: Those who embrace ESG early on will not only be more competitive but will also be more equipped to contribute to a sustainable future.

Learning Sustainability: How To Get Started

According to Ms. Tuyen, it’s essential for young people to enhance three areas: lifelong learning, interpersonal skills, and communication skills. For those wondering where to start, resources are abundant. From online learning platforms to podcasts, there is a wealth of knowledge on sustainability and ESG practices.

DOC has been actively contributing to this educational landscape. The organization offers e-learning courses on ESG, project management, and sustainable communication, aiming to equip young people with the tools they need to thrive.

Connecting Young Talent With Real-Life Opportunities

While online learning is valuable, real-world application is just as important. In this regard, DOC takes a step further by offering the program “Sustainable Development Mentorship” (Ươm mầm phát triển bền vững). This initiative connects young people with industry professionals and companies already implementing sustainability practices, allowing them to gain practical experience and valuable insights.

Ms. Tuyen recalled how one student, after engaging with their content, decided to shift their career path towards sustainability. “It’s incredible to see young people finding their purpose and direction through small but impactful steps. That’s the real power of this kind of education,” she said.