An exploratory study on transformative change towards inclusive workplaces through international internships: a feminist perspective

This study investigates the transformative impact of international internships on Vietnamese students’ perceptions of workplace inclusivity from a feminist perspective, particularly intersectional and postcolonial feminism. Drawing on interviews with 23 Vietnamese students who participated in international internship programs, this study explores how these cross-cultural encounters serve as feminist pedagogical moments that reshape students’ attitudes toward gender equality, diversity, and workplace inclusion. According to our research, students who are exposed to a variety of job settings develop a deeper comprehension of feminist viewpoints and are more equipped to question established gender stereotypes and promote diversity. This research contributes to the discourse on gender equity in Vietnam, highlighting the vital role of international internships in shaping future leaders. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for educational institutions to integrate feminist underpinnings into their curricula to prepare students for a globally interconnected workforce. This study paves the way for further investigations into the long-term impacts of international internships on organization’s path to inclusion and changing dynamics in Vietnam’s labor market.