On the morning of October 5, 2026, the School of Business and Management (HSB), Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), organised the workshop "Leading and Building in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: From Innovation and Entrepreneurship to Global Impact", featuring insights from two international experts: Mr Uwe Doerken, former Chairman and Global CEO of DHL Express, and Dr Petra Doerken, an expert in investment management and corporate strategy.

Currently co-leading D&D Legacy Capital, a global strategic advisory organisation, the two speakers shared perspectives drawn from their extensive experience in international management and business. Their discussions focused on Vietnam's development opportunities, the potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI), and the capabilities young people need to develop to pursue entrepreneurship in an increasingly competitive global environment.

Identifying Opportunities Amid Shifts in the Global Economy

Vietnam possesses several competitive advantages within global value chains, including a young technically skilled workforce, a strong capacity for continuous improvement, and a high level of trade integration. According to the analyses presented at the workshop, these advantages could provide a foundation for domestic enterprises to participate more deeply in international production, supply and innovation networks.

Trends such as supply chain relocation, manufacturing automation, the development of agentic AI, and growing requirements for carbon emissions reduction are also creating new business opportunities. For start-up teams, opportunities lie not only in developing new technologies but also in identifying real-world challenges faced by businesses and society and delivering practical solutions.

This approach presents an important lesson for young people: rather than starting with a purely technological idea, they should begin by understanding market needs, clearly identifying the value they can deliver to customers, and developing business models capable of sustainable growth.

Moving AI from Experimentation to Real-World Operations

One of the workshop's central themes was the gap between experimenting with AI and implementing the technology in actual business operations. While AI offers significant potential, its effectiveness depends heavily on data quality, infrastructure, organisational processes, and the ability of employees to adapt.

The 10/20/70 framework discussed at the workshop illustrated this approach: 10% is attributed to algorithms, 20% to data and infrastructure, and 70% to processes and people. The key message was that investment in AI cannot be limited to selecting technological tools. Businesses must also transform their operating models and prepare their workforce to translate technology into practical value.

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into professional activities, critical thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to build meaningful human relationships remain essential. These capabilities also enable young people to use technology responsibly, evaluate issues from multiple perspectives, and make informed decisions.

Expanding Global Connections and Preparing for International Entrepreneurship

Beyond knowledge of technology and markets, the workshop emphasised the importance of international engagement skills in career development. The ability to use English in business, proactively establish international connections, and confidently communicate with partners from diverse cultural backgrounds is essential for young people seeking to take their ideas beyond the domestic market.

During the event, HSB students were also introduced to the opportunity to participate in the Global Gateway Incubator, tentatively scheduled to take place from January to May 2027. According to the information shared, the programme aims to connect young founding teams with international investors and business leaders through specialised masterclasses and direct technical mentoring activities. Further details will be communicated to students in due course.

By facilitating exchanges with experts who possess extensive international management experience, HSB provides students with additional opportunities to engage with the issues shaping today's business environment, thereby strengthening their strategic thinking and entrepreneurial capabilities amid rapid technological change.

HSB extends its sincere appreciation to Mr Uwe Doerken and Dr Petra Doerken for their participation and for sharing valuable practical insights with students, lecturers, and young people interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, and international integration.