Annie Dubé, Consul General of Canada, on values that define her leadership

When I met Annie Dubé, Consul General of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City, I was struck by her quiet confidence and genuine warmth. With over two decades of experience in international trade and diplomacy, she embodies a modern, dedicated, and globally engaged approach to leadership.

A graduate of Laval University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an MBA in International Business, Annie began her career at Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003. Over the years, she has held key leadership positions, from Director of Aerospace, Defense, and ICT sectors to Senior Advisor to the Minister of International Trade, leaving her mark in numerous countries.

Today, she continues her mission of fostering cooperation between Canada and Vietnam while advocating for diversity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment, values that define both her leadership and her legacy.

HARPER’S BAZAAR: Congratulations on completing two years as Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City. Looking back, which moments or achievements during your tenure have been most memorable, and why?

ANNIE DUBÉ: We recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Vietnam, a milestone that truly stands out. Shortly after, Canada’s Minister of International Trade led a business delegation of 240 representatives to Vietnam. That was a moment of great pride for me, as it reflected the growing depth of cooperation and the enduring partnership between our two countries.

This year, we’re also celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. All these milestones build upon one another, and I feel very fortunate to have the privilege of witnessing and contributing to them during my posting.

HARPER’S BAZAAR: Women currently make up less than 7% of global leaders. Studies suggest that women in leadership often promote policies that benefit other women. What is your perspective on this?

ANNIE DUBÉ: It’s clear that having diverse voices at the table leads to better decision-making. More women in leadership is essential, but inclusion goes beyond gender. Representation from underrepresented groups, such as the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, and visible minorities, is equally important.

When teams are built inclusively, policies can address the needs of all citizens, not just a small portion. In diplomacy and beyond, diversity ensures that our work truly reflects the societies we serve.

HARPER’S BAZAAR: What qualities, in your view, help women succeed in diplomacy, a field that demands both flexibility and steadfastness?

ANNIE DUBÉ: That’s a fascinating question. Is there really something that differentiates women from men in leadership? I once read a quote from General Carignan, the first Canadian woman to lead the Canadian Armed Forces. She said: “What are the qualities we need from women leaders? Strength, integrity, compassion, courage, empathy, vision, resilience, creativity. And what are the qualities we need from male leaders? Strength, integrity, compassion, courage, empathy, vision, resilience, creativity.”

The qualities are the same. Leadership transcends gender, it’s about bringing these values to the table, regardless of who you are.

HARPER’S BAZAAR: What advice would you give to young women who aspire to pursue careers in diplomacy, politics, or global leadership?

ANNIE DUBÉ: Every journey is unique, but one universal truth is that the people you surround yourself with shape your path. In both professional and personal life, the most important decision I make every day is choosing who to hire, or who to let into my circle. The right people will lift you higher; the wrong ones can bring you down.

“THE COMPANIONS you choose
will define THE JOURNEY you take.”

During my two years here, I’ve met incredible Vietnamese women leaders, women who inspire through their vision, resilience, and drive. On this special occasion, I celebrate them all, the trailblazers of today and the changemakers of tomorrow.

Another piece of advice I always share is this: you can become anything, but you cannot become everything. Be clear about what you want to achieve and what trade-offs you’re willing to make. Clarity gives you strength. To every woman in Vietnam pursuing her dreams: keep going, and know that I am cheering for you.

HARPER’S BAZAAR:  What is your overarching goal in advancing the Canada-Vietnam partnership?

ANNIE DUBÉ: The geopolitical landscape has changed significantly, even in just the past few months, we’re navigating a world that’s evolving quickly, and this challenges us to find new ways to collaborate. Both Canada and Vietnam share a belief in a rules-based international order and free trade, and our partnership under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) exemplifies this.

Canada is the birthplace of modern deep learning, the foundation of today’s AI revolution. We are also an energy superpower, home to five of the ten critical minerals essential for modern technology. When I look at Vietnam’s remarkable economic growth, I see immense synergy. Canada’s strengths and Vietnam’s dynamism complement each other beautifully, and I’m excited to see what more we can accomplish together.

***Production Team***

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Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam