
Empowerment for happiness: A message from women entrepreneurs
11/04/2025TN&MTOn April 9 in Hanoi, the International Women Entrepreneurs Council (IWEC) hosted its “Entrepreneurs’ coffee” event under the theme “Independent women, empowered for happiness.” The gathering served as a space for connection, sharing, and spreading a message of positive living.
IWEC leadership and event attendees taking photos
Among the attendees were Dr. Dao Xuan Hung, Editor-in-Chief of the Magazine of Agriculture and Environment (Ministry of Agriculture and Environment); Ms. Le Thi Minh Hoa, Chairwoman of IWEC; IWEC Vice Presidents Ms. Pham Bich Thuy and Miss Jennifer Pham; and more than 50 female entrepreneurs, leaders, and women striving for success in various fields.
IWEC leadership and event attendees taking photos
Held in a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of coffee softened the pace of busy lives, the event became an emotionally rich and meaningful forum. More than just a networking opportunity, it fostered open and sincere conversations about women’s journeys of self-affirmation, overcoming social norms, and pursuing authentic happiness.
Speaker An Phuong – CEO & Founder of Happy Life – and Ms. Pham Bich Thuy, IWEC Vice President and General Secretary, facilitate the program
In her opening remarks, IWEC Chairwoman Le Thi Minh Hoa emphasized that women’s happiness is no longer confined to traditional expectations. According to her, financial independence, career autonomy, and emotional resilience are the key pillars enabling women to create their own version of happiness. “When a woman takes charge of her own life, she doesn’t just live for herself — she becomes a source of love and positive energy for her family, community, and society,” she said.
IWEC leadership and event attendees taking photos
The highlight of the event was a talk by keynote speaker An Phuong, CEO and Founder of Happy Life and the founder of the “Awakened and happy women” community. Drawing from deeply personal experiences and a journey of overcoming adversity, An Phương offered a comprehensive perspective on the path to independence and self-empowerment. She underscored the importance of strategic financial planning, smart investing, and risk management as essential tools for women to gain economic autonomy — a critical factor in breaking free from dependency and affirming self-worth.
Ms. Le Thi Minh Hoa, Chairwoman of IWEC, and Dr. Dao Xuan Hung taking photo
Beyond financial empowerment, An Phuong also delved into the importance of autonomy in personal and professional relationships. She stressed the value of building a strong support system and setting healthy boundaries as crucial strategies for women to maintain balance, protect their interests, and foster long-term personal growth.
Miss Jennifer Pham, IWEC Vice President, and Dr. Dao Xuan Hung taking photo
Spiritual autonomy was another cornerstone of her message — the foundation of inner happiness. She shared her experience in sustaining mental wellbeing, cultivating self-awareness, and living with purpose. Practices such as meditation, yoga, or simply taking time to reflect were presented as effective ways for women to care for their inner world amid the pressures of modern life.
The energy of the gathering peaked during a vibrant discussion session between the speaker and attendees. Real-life questions and heartfelt sharing by female entrepreneurs created a powerful sense of solidarity, where each story became a spark of inspiration.
IWEC’s “Entrepreneurs’ coffee” was more than a networking event — it laid the foundation for a strong, supportive community where women can share, learn, and walk alongside each other in pursuit of happiness. The message it conveyed is also the spirit of the era: independence and self-empowerment are the keys that unlock a life of meaning, fulfillment, and joy.
The International Women Entrepreneurs Council (IWEC) is a prestigious organization dedicated to the growth of women-led businesses. With a mission to connect and support women entrepreneurs globally, IWEC continues to expand its reach and impact, contributing to the elevation of women's roles in the global economy.
Ngoc Huyen