Asia scholarship aims to empower Pacific women

Fifteen Pacific women will get to travel to Vietnam later this year for an internship programme by the Pacific Cooperation Foundation (PCF).

The recent announcement by PCF follows the Prime Minister Scholarship to Asia (PMSA) launched six weeks ago.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Vietnamese counterpart, Pham Minh Chinh, identified major orientations for further strengthening cooperation in multiple areas during talks in Wellington on March 11.

The two leaders agreed to increase the effective development of their countries’ strategic partnership in politics - diplomacy, economy - trade, security - defence, education - training, agriculture, and labour.

The meeting also focused on the frequent exchanges of high-ranking delegations and the good growth of bilateral trade, by 60 per cent during 2017-2022.

In partnership with Pagoda Projects and Ton Duc Thang University, the PCF programme offers a range of opportunities including cultural immersion, networking, and gaining invaluable international business experience.

PCF is seeking eligible Pacific women it says have an “entrepreneurial spirit who are driven, proud of their heritage, and interested in connecting with other cultures”.

PCF chief executive Joanna Bourke told Pacific Days’ Ma’a Brian Sagala this would be a significant opportunity for Pacific people.

“I see that as a really great opportunity for our Pasifika people to take on the opportunity because the truth is our Pacific people haven't been taking the opportunity or if there are, it's a very small bunch.”

Application flyer for the programme / Photo: Pacific Foundation Cooperation

The eight-week internship will be based in Ho Chi Minh City, one of Vietnam’s most diverse cities.

Eligible candidates must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents over the age of 18.

Bourke said the successful applicants would return home and share their learnings and experiences within their community.

She said they would also use that knowledge to empower other Pacific communities, youth, and women across Aotearoa.

She encouraged Pacific women to apply.

The programme covers airfares to and from Auckland, accommodation, orientation, support, and a small stipend.

The internship runs from 28 November 2024 to 25 January 2025.

Applications are open now and will close on 18 August 2024. To apply, follow the link: https://www.pagodaprojects.com/pcf

Watch the full video the interview with Pacific Cooperation Foundation CEO Joanne Bourke below.