As someone who always looks at the positive side, I was delighted by the idea of Richard Branson visiting Vietnam.
But after he Had come to Vietnam, I felt sad instead.
I was sad because people cared more about outward appearances serving hidden purposes than the real value they could offer attendees.
I was saddened to see so many Vietnamese people crowding onto the stage before the panel discussion had even ended, jostling merely to get a selfie with Richard Branson in one corner of the picture. They had misapplied the lesson of taking action. I glimpsed a hint of amusement on Richard Branson's face at that chaotic scene.
I was sad because I had never seen an event with logistics so… shambolic. Many stories would make you angry—not for me, but for the other attendees.
I was sad because the content's value stopped at creating a sales funnel, with a program assembled from other speakers' sales seminars. Without Richard Branson's name, there was no consistent theme across those 2 days. Even his session could have offered far greater value if the organizers truly cared about the core values.
I was sad that our civility and so-called “enthusiasm” could not keep Richard Branson even 5 minutes beyond his contract. When a speaker visits a wonderful country, even with a 1-hour contract, they might stay for 1 and a half hours because… “Everyone is wonderful.” Here, Sir Richard Branson did not even answer 2 questions from the audience and hurried away. Perhaps he was busy afterward, perhaps slightly annoyed by the organization, or perhaps there were other reasons. But I did not see him feel that Vietnam was wonderful enough to say, “See you next time, Vietnam.”
His appearance was like rain quenching the “thirst” of several thousand people after 2 days. But it was also like a shower that stops abruptly after only a few drops, just as drought-stricken people begin shouting “thank heaven.” Everyone left feeling underwhelmed.
A pity for a vision and its execution.
And I would add that this is only my personal opinion and perspective.
In any case, I thank the entire production team for their hard work over many months preparing this program.
But tonight I am still sad….
Oh, Vietnam
