On Sunday, 9th February 2025, the Vietnamese Intellectual Society in the UK and Ireland (VIS) successfully hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and New Year Celebration at the historic St. Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry.
This gathering was more than just a celebration—it was a reflection on an incredibly successful year for VIS, marked by multiple activities, collaborations, and partnerships that have strengthened ties between the UK and Vietnam.
Here are some key highlights of the VIS 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) & New Year Celebration:
Review of VIS 2024 Activities
Prof. Huan X. Nguyen and Dr. Yen Tran provided a comprehensive review of VIS’s activities in 2024, highlighting key achievements in academic collaboration, professional engagement, and community building. Over the past year, VIS strengthened partnerships with leading Vietnamese universities, facilitating joint projects, faculty exchanges, and student mentorship programs. The society also expanded its cooperation with the British Embassy, British Council, and other professional organizations to enhance opportunities in education, innovation, and career development. In addition, VIS organized a series of seminars, workshops, and networking events that connected Vietnamese and UK-based professionals across various fields. These initiatives have significantly broadened VIS’s influence, offering members valuable resources, career insights, and funding opportunities to support their academic and professional growth.
Introduction of VIS Executive Board 2025
VIS New Executive Board (EB) for 2025 was announced, marking the beginning of another year dedicated to fostering growth, collaboration, and academic engagement. The newly appointed board members will lead the organization’s efforts in strengthening partnerships, supporting research initiatives, and enhancing professional connections between the UK and Vietnam. VIS also expressed its sincere appreciation to the outgoing EB members for their dedication, leadership, and significant contributions over the past term, which have played a crucial role in the society’s continued success.
VIS members and Guest Speaker Presentations
Our event featured insightful presentations from esteemed professionals, including:
🔹 Dr. Linh TB Nguyen, UCL – Increasing research impact with start-ups and spin-offs
🔹 Professor Viet Anh Dang, The University of Manchester – How to develop into a professor at a well-established research institution?
🔹 Dr. Petros Lameras, Coventry University – GameAid
🔹 Professor Juergen Branke, University of Warwick – Warwick Business School – Reflections on Warwick’s Data Science for Social Good Programme
🔹 Ms. Linh Nguyen Slater, NatWest – Navigating New Worlds: Journey to Leadership
Conclusion
The success of the VIS 2025 AGM and New Year Celebration would not have been possible without the dedication and support of our hosts and organizing team, including Xuan Vinh Doan, Que Anh Dang, PhD, and the students from the University of Warwick and Coventry University. We extend our sincere gratitude for their efforts in making this event a memorable one. A special thank you also goes to Viet Nam News – Vietnam News Agency in the UK for their ongoing support and for capturing the highlights of our gathering.
As we look ahead, VIS remains committed to fostering meaningful connections, empowering professionals, and strengthening collaboration between Vietnam and the UK. With a strong foundation and a dedicated network, we look forward to another year of growth, innovation, and impactful partnerships.
