Prime Minister’s Award Recipients in Vietnam: Stories of Growth and Connection

Explore the inspiring journeys of the Prime Minister’s Scholarship—Asia recipients as they embark on a life-changing experience in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Through personal stories and insights, these Pacific Women from Aotearoa share their challenges, triumphs, and the transformative impact of this journey. Discover how this program empowers future leaders, fosters cross-cultural connections, and aligns with PCF's mission to amplify Pacific voices on the global stage.

Joanna Bourke Joanna Bourke

From Aotearoa to Vietnam: Ruth Alesana’s Bold Leap Into the Unknown

Empowering Pacific Voices: Ruth Alesana’s Journey in Vietnam ✨

Discover how Ruth Alesana, a Digital & Communications Coordinator with the Pacific Media Network, overcame fears, embraced new cultures, and found personal and professional growth in Vietnam. Through her vlog, Ruth highlights the power of stepping out of your comfort zone, building global connections, and discovering opportunities that bridge the Pacific and Asia. Her journey is a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative impact of cultural exchange.

🎥 Watch her inspiring vlog and read the full story now!

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Joanna Bourke Joanna Bourke

Q&A with Telesia Macnamara - Pasifika Coaching Foundation

Meet Telesia Macnamara: A Pacific Entrepreneur in Ho Chi Minh City

In this week’s blog, we introduce Telesia Macnamara, one of the inspiring women from our Pacific female entrepreneurs cohort currently in Ho Chi Minh City. Telesia, an entrepreneur, has brought her whole family—her husband Glenn and their three young daughters—on this life-changing journey, making it a true family adventure.

In this candid Q&A, Telesia shares her thoughts on embracing this unique opportunity, balancing family life in a new environment, and how this experience aligns with her entrepreneurial dreams. She offers insights into her motivations, the challenges of stepping outside her comfort zone, and her hopes for what lies ahead over the next seven weeks.

Through her story, we see not just the courage it takes to seize such an opportunity, but also the importance of family and community in navigating new landscapes and experiences.

Stay tuned for Telesia’s reflections and stories from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, as well as highlights from the rest of the cohort who are making their mark on this incredible journey.

📖 Read the full Q&A on our blog and be inspired by Telesia’s remarkable story of resilience, vision, and Pacific pride.

#PacificEntrepreneurs #PCFStories #HoChiMinhCity #Leadership #GlobalOpportunities #FamilyAdventureith an idea.

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Guest User Guest User

Ni Sa Bula to Xin Chào: Exploring Vietnam’s Food Culture Through a Fijian Lens"

Embark on a vibrant culinary adventure through Việt Nam, where every meal tells a story of culture, connection, and flavor. From the bustling streets of Hồ Chí Minh City to the tranquil traditions of shared meals, this blog explores the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine—highlighting its ties to Pacific food culture and its ability to create a sense of home, even in unfamiliar places. Dive into tales of phở, bánh mì, and Vietnamese iced coffee, and discover how food bridges worlds and brings people together.

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Joanna Bourke Joanna Bourke

The Future is Global: What PCF’s Vietnam Initiative Means for the Pacific

Discover how the Pacific Cooperation Foundation is breaking new ground with its inaugural offshore initiative in Vietnam. Through immersive experiences and cross-cultural exchanges, our Pacific female entrepreneurship cohort embraced opportunities to learn, grow, and lead on the global stage. From engaging with Vietnam’s dynamic tech industry and Ton Duc University to meeting inspiring female entrepreneurs and exploring the Mekong Delta, this program celebrates the resilience, innovation, and leadership of Pacific women. Join us in amplifying their voices and shaping a future where Pacific values and identities shine globally.

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