The Makeover 2025 conference gathers 1,800 global business leaders

With the debut of Vietnam's first virtual host, M-AI, and the theme "S-AI-ling Ahead," the technology conference on Oct. 15–16 showcased how technological innovation can still be profoundly human-centered.

This year marked the introduction of M-AI, the country's first virtual MC in HR & business conference powered by real-time motion capture (MOCAP) technology. Sharing the stage with a human co-host, M-AI embodied the harmony between humans and machines in communication and engagement. The virtual host's lifelike expressions, movements, and real-time interaction captivated attendees.

A virtual host took the stage of The Makeover 2025. Photo courtesy of Talentnet

From the moment guests entered the futuristic Neo-Arena, they were immersed in an experience of sound, light, and motion that reflected the event's innovative spirit.

Day 1 featured thought-provoking keynotes and discussions from prominent figures including Pham Minh Huong (IPA Group), Dr. Son Do Lenh (Talentnet), Sujay Bhat (SAP SuccessFactors), and Henrik von Scheel, the global futurist credited as the originator of Industry 4.0.

Huong introduced the TAC (Transformation and Continuation) framework, emphasizing how organizations can innovate while preserving their core identity. Dr. Son Do Lenh urged leaders to "rewrite the rules" of technology adoption and reclaim strategic control, while Bhat highlighted AI's potential to build predictive and personalized HR strategies that enhance engagement and productivity.

Concluding the day, Henrik von Scheel delivered a powerful keynote, "The Next Disruption: Lead It or Be Led." He emphasized that as technology evolves, the human element must remain central: "Build in-house AI models to protect data and reduce risks. The leader of the future aligns goals, measures progress, and adapts quickly—ensuring the entire team moves forward as one."

Henrik von Scheel, Top 01 Global Futurist and Industry 4.0 originator, speaking at the event. Photo courtesy of Talentnet

The second day shifted the focus toward people. Opening the sessions, Godelieve van Dooren, CEO of Mercer Southeast Asia, explored how AI is reshaping compensation and rewards, driving greater transparency and efficiency while reminding leaders that fairness and empathy remain essential.

In the panel discussion "Beyond Pay: Rethinking Employee Value in the AI Age," experts from Nafoods Group, Home Credit Vietnam, and Talentnet agreed that personalization is the new frontier of employee engagement. Companies that understand their people as individuals—not just data points—will earn lasting loyalty and trust.

Closing the event, Nguyen Thi Quynh Phuong, Head of Human Capital Solutions at Talentnet, unveiled findings from the 2025 Talentnet–Mercer Total Remuneration Survey, underscoring the importance of flexibility and data-driven insights in reward strategies to ensure business resilience and sustainable growth.

To view the highlights of the 2025 Talentnet–Mercer Total Remuneration Survey, check the recap here.

Nguyen Thi Quynh Phuong, Head of Human Capital Solutions at Talentnet, speaks at the event. Photo courtesy of Talentnet

The Makeover 2025 was supported by a strong lineup of partners including SAP, Greenfeed, HSBC, IPA Group, OCB, PNJ, British Council, ELSA, and goFluent, along with exhibition and digital media partners such as Dragon Capital, FulbrightX, Fullerton, Phuong Nam Bookstore, Singapore Management University, WOGI, ZaloPay, Hoiana, FT Vietnam, and Quickom.