After a challenging and passion-filled journey, the Grand Final of the “Entrepreneurship Arena” 2025 concluded at the campus of British University Vietnam marking a significant milestone for community-oriented startup ideas driven by Vietnam’s young generation.
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From Impressive Numbers to a Fiery Final Stage
Launched in late 2025, the competition attracted widespread attention with compelling figures: 490 contestants representing 63 high schools nationwide and submitting a total of 46 innovative initiatives. Following the initial “Kick-off” round and a series of demanding challenges-including TikTok channel development and online pitching-the top seven teams advanced to the final stage to compete for the championship title.
The competition was jointly organised by the NextGen Social Impact Project and Vinsights Education Organisation, with the support of British University Vietnam (BUV), Education and Times Newspaper, and NewLife Media. Its primary objective is to instil core values of ethics and social responsibility in business among high school students with entrepreneurial aspirations. These values are widely regarded as a critical foundation for fostering sustainable entrepreneurial thinking and responsible citizenship among young people. The close collaboration between education, media, businesses, and the community has helped shape an ecosystem that nurtures long-term entrepreneurial ambition for the younger generation.
At the opening of the event, Dr Nguyen Thi Thu Anh, a member of the National Council for Education and Human Resources Development and representative of the Organising Committee of “Entrepreneurship Arena” 2025, expressed her strong appreciation for the competition’s scale, academic quality, and the seriousness demonstrated by participating projects. She noted that each startup idea not only reflected creative thinking but was also rooted in real-life issues, highlighting the students’ social awareness, sense of responsibility, and ability to observe and respond to societal needs in a modern context.
Representing the academic sponsor, Mr Paul Julian Bennett, Chief Marketing Officer at BUV, shared insights into the students’ learning and personal development journey: “We place great emphasis on learning through practice, which is a vital component not only for students in this competition but across all fields.” Through entrepreneurship platforms – particularly “Entrepreneurship Arena” 2025 – students were given opportunities to test their ideas in a safe environment, while also learning how to face challenges, embrace feedback, and continuously refine their thinking.
The final round was evaluated by a highly experienced judging panel, comprising representatives from government, business, and academia, and applying rigorous professional standards and strict evaluation criteria. The panel included Mr Doan Hong Ha, Deputy Head of the Party Committee’s Commission for Information, Education and Mass Mobilisation at the Ministry of Education and Training; senior business leaders; and representatives from British University Vietnam, namely Dr Luu Thi Thao Nguyen, Lecturer at the Postgraduate School, and Dr Hoang Thi Thu Phuong, Lecturer at the Business School.
In response to these demanding expectations, the finalist teams delivered well-prepared and persuasive presentations, leaving a strong impression on both the judges and the audience. Within a limited timeframe, each team not only introduced its startup concept but also demonstrated the ability to analyse problems, propose feasible solutions, and defend key viewpoints. Each presentation told a distinct story, reflecting creative thinking and a shared aspiration among young people to generate positive value for the community.
Honouring Future Social Entrepreneurs
With a Gen Z–focused second-hand fashion trading platform, the five-member team SoulFit from Chu Van An High School for the Gifted claimed the championship title of “Entrepreneurship Arena” 2025.
According to the team’s representative, the idea was inspired by everyday observations, highlighting how daily habits can generate significant social and environmental impact. From real-life insights, the team developed a solution that promotes a green, clean, and responsible lifestyle, placing sustainability at the core of its startup model.
The project stood out for its integration of social thinking and technological application, aiming to optimise existing resources, reduce waste, and create long-term value for the community. Beyond conceptual strength, the initiative demonstrated strong real-world potential through a clear implementation roadmap and promising scalability.
With a business concept centred on exfoliating soap products, GreenMind impressed the judges by addressing personal care needs alongside safety and sustainability considerations. The project focuses on the use of natural, environmentally friendly ingredients while minimising harmful chemicals for both skin health and the natural environment. Beyond being a consumer product, the idea reflects a responsible entrepreneurial mindset by prioritising user wellbeing and social impact, aligning with the growing trend towards sustainable and green consumption.
