In May 2026, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) collaborated with the Sustainable Impact Leadership Network (SILN) and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) under the U.S. Department of State, and experts from the University of Montana (USA) to organize seminars and workshops for students and faculty members. Through these events, participants gained practical insights into collaborative leadership, conflict resolution, and the role of these competencies in fostering sustainable learning, working, and community environments.
The events not only enhanced the capabilities of HUTECH students and personnel but also promoted the values of dialogue, collaboration, and meaningful connection in an increasingly internationalized higher education landscape.
Fostering Collaborative Leadership for the Next Generation
The series began with the international forum titled “Collaborative Leadership and Conflict Resolution Skills for Young Leaders Toward Global Sustainable Development”, held on May 15 and featuring distinguished speakers from the fields of leadership, education, and sustainable development. The event welcomed Mr. Ted Osius, former U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, former President and CEO of the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, and Chairman of TCLTBO Vietnam; Mr. Shawn Johnson, Director of the Center for Natural Resources and Environmental Policy at the University of Montana (USA); Ms. Heather Stokes, Executive Director of the Center for Natural Resources and Environmental Policy at the University of Montana (USA); Master Oneness, Founder of Diviners Movement; Dr. Ly Thien Trang, Vice President of HUTECH; and Ms. Nghi Phan, Founder and CEO of the Sustainable Impact Leadership Network (SILN).
During the forum, the speakers shared valuable perspectives on the qualities required of young leaders in the 21st century. Beyond professional expertise, today’s youth must possess a global mindset, adaptability in the face of rapid societal change, intercultural communication skills, and a strong sense of responsibility toward their communities. Drawing from real-world experiences in education, business, community development, and international cooperation, the speakers encouraged students to view leadership through a broader lens. Leadership is not merely associated with authority or position but is reflected in one’s ability to inspire positive change, connect people, and create meaningful impact within society.
The speakers also emphasized that in an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds is among the most important leadership competencies. Openness, active listening, and a willingness to learn are essential qualities that will enable young people to become responsible global citizens and future changemakers.
Collaborative Leadership and Conflict Resolution for a Sustainable Workplace
Following the student forum, HUTECH organized the Workshop on Collaborative Leadership and Conflict Resolution Towards Sustainable Development for faculty members.
During the workshop, Ms. Heather Stokes provided practical insights into the nature of workplace conflict. According to her, conflict is inevitable within any organization because individuals bring different perspectives, goals, and approaches to their work. However, when properly recognized and managed, these differences can become catalysts for innovation, creativity, and organizational growth. Through the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode framework, participants explored common responses to conflict and gained a deeper understanding of their own communication and problem-solving styles. Recognizing these tendencies enables individuals to adopt more effective approaches in different situations, contributing to a more productive and harmonious workplace.
Building on these discussions, Mr. Shawn Johnson introduced the Conflict Spiral model, which helps participants identify how conflicts escalate and how negative outcomes can be prevented. He also highlighted four core elements of collaborative leadership: empathy, commitment, courage, and leadership capacity.
Beyond knowledge sharing, the workshop provided opportunities for participants to engage in discussions, exchange experiences, and work through real-life scenarios. These activities encouraged attendees to reflect on how they communicate, collaborate, and address differences in their professional environments.
As higher education increasingly emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-functional engagement, collaborative leadership and conflict resolution have become essential competencies for fostering a positive workplace culture, strengthening cooperation among departments, and supporting sustainable institutional development.
Through these seminars and workshops for its students and faculty members, HUTECH continues to promote the values of collaborative leadership, constructive dialogue, and conflict resolution within a modern educational environment. The knowledge and practical experiences shared by international experts not only contribute to individual growth but also support the development of a connected, open, and sustainable HUTECH community.
Department of International Relations and Project Management