In her words –
In 30 years, Vietnam has had a remarkable development. In 2016 only 3% of the population was living in extreme poverty, compared to 50% in the early 1990s. Yet, a significant share of the population, particularly in rural areas and among ethnic minorities, is vulnerable to falling back in poverty and still has limited access to education and decent job opportunities.
Inequality, social exclusion and climate change- the challenges of our time are complex and require everyone’s attention. To improve the current situation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs: multi-stakeholder partnerships are essential. Public sector, business, civil society, everyone has a role to play in achieving the sustainability agenda.
For me, a ‘Sustainable Vietnam’ should be an environment which allows everyone to build their futures and a more equitable society.
About Sophie Hartman
Sophie Hartman is the coordinator of the Association of Southeast Asian Social Enterprises for Training in Hospitality & Catering (ASSET-H&C). This regional network brings together tourism and hospitality vocational training centres committed to bringing positive change in the lives of vulnerable youths by teaching them skills that will allow them to successfully integrate into the job market and society. Prior to that, Sophie has been involved in various development projects in Peru, Laos and Nepal.
Click to read in her words together with Carson Bolding – Tourism, Social Entrepreneurship & Sustainability: How Vocational Training is Filling a Gap.
