2023, Global Internships, Vietnam 8-week Internship (2023)

Week one working in Ho Chi Minh City

by Mary Grant

Beginning my second week of work in Ho Chi Minh City I thought to recap week one with three key highlights:

  • Ho Chi Minh is the business hub of Vietnam, and because of this many countries have a Chamber of Commerce set up here. During my first week, I was able to attend both the Australian and Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce networking events. It was great to connect with and learn about people from a range of different organisations. I look forward to attending more of these events as they help me to gain a broader insight into the business ecosystem here.
  • Taking a moped to work, although the first few times were a bit nerve-racking. Now I love the way I am able to see more of the city as I head to work and be a part of the craziness that is the roads in Saigon.
  • The people. Last Monday I was so warmly welcomed by the people in my host company. Through the week I have noticed how relationally focused business is in Vietnam. They care about first forming friendships with potential business partners and clients before they will enter into business with one another.
On my first day at my host company.
The traffic heading to work.
Myself (L) and fellow intern Lanee (R) with AusCham (Australian Chamber of Commerce) director Jackie Lam (M).