HCMC – Standard Chartered Bank, through its charitable arm Standard Chartered Foundation, on October 22 launched the “Ready to Work” project in Vietnam to enhance financial literacy, vocational skills, and job readiness among disadvantaged young people.
Implemented in partnership with Plan International Vietnam, the project is part of Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, a global initiative supporting underprivileged youth – particularly women and people with disabilities – to access vocational training and sustainable employment opportunities.
Running from July 2025 to December 2027, the program aims to support 2,000 Vietnamese aged 18–35 from disadvantaged backgrounds, including 70% women and 5% people with disabilities. Participants will receive short-term vocational training and soft-skills development to help them secure jobs.
Courses lasting from three to six months will cover areas such as graphic design, beauty care, tourism, culinary arts, sales, baking, beverages and service, skincare, and industrial sewing. The initiative will also connect trainees with businesses for internships and employment opportunities.
“Following the success of the previous phase in 2022, we are pleased to continue working with Plan International to empower young people to overcome social and economic barriers,” said Trinh Nhu Quynh, head of corporate affairs, brand and marketing at Standard Chartered Vietnam. “This project reflects our long-term commitment to Vietnam’s sustainable development.”
Le Quynh Lan, country director of Plan International Vietnam, said the organization had worked closely with partners to deliver market-oriented training programs for disadvantaged youth, especially women. “We believe the success of ‘Ready to Work,’ particularly among young women, reaffirms our commitment to supporting two million girls and young people to build a green and sustainable future by 2027,” she said.
Standard Chartered has operated in Vietnam since 1904 and currently runs four branches in Hanoi and HCMC. The bank engages in community programs focusing on youth empowerment, health, and financial education.
