Cover Esther An, Adlin Yusman, Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein and Cherrie Atilano are members of the Tatler Gen.T Tribe, a panel of industry heavyweights with expert insights (Illustration: Ryan Kabigting)
Esther An, Adlin Yusman, Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein and Cherrie Atilano are members of the Tatler Gen.T Tribe, a panel of industry heavyweights with expert insights (Illustration: Ryan Kabigting)
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Eight members of the Tribe, the panel of industry heavyweights who helped select this year’s honourees, share their definition of effective leadership and what it means to be a Leader of Tomorrow
While trophies, awards, and recognitions are good indicators of achievement, the foundation still lies in effective leadership. By leveraging their platforms, experiences and unique voices to inspire others, a person can become natural leaders in their respective fields and beyond.
Similarly, a startup will not achieve profitability or steady growth without a leader who prioritises collective vision over personal goals. An effective leader not only delivers tangible results but also embodies a commitment to meaningful impact in the community.
Come June 3, we will present the new cohort of the Tatler Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow. These young leaders have been recognised for using their impact to create a future that is more socially conscious, inclusive and innovative.
So what sets the most promising leaders apart? We asked the Tatler Gen.T Tribe, the panel of industry veterans who helped us select this year’s Leaders of Tomorrow, for insights. From founders of companies to seasoned executives and creative thinkers, they share what they think makes for exceptional leadership and the impact they hope to see made by the next generation of leaders.
Read more: Meet the industry veterans who helped to select the Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow 2024
Durreen Shahnaz
Above Durreen Shahnaz is an entrepreneur and impact investor who created the world’s first social stock exchange
Durreen Shahnaz is an entrepreneur and impact investor who created the world’s first social stock exchange
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Founder and CEO, Impact Investment Exchange and IIX Foundation
What was your thought process for selecting the most promising young leaders this year?
Durreen Shahnaz (DS): When curating this year’s list, I sought out individuals who not only possess talent but are also deeply committed to making a meaningful impact and driving innovation in their respective fields. I was particularly drawn to trailblazers, whose work extends beyond personal achievement and is actively shaping a more sustainable, inclusive and socially responsible future.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
DS: Effective leadership, in my view, is characterised by what I call ‘defiant optimism’. It’s about inspiring others to challenge the status quo and strive for more than the ordinary. True leaders lead with empathy and inclusivity while empowering their teams to break through barriers and unleash their full potential. An effective leader navigates adversity with integrity and transparent, inclusive decision-making. They foster a positive, enduring impact on society and leave a legacy of empowerment and transformation.
How can young leaders stand out in a world full of great talent and innovation?
DS: Young leaders distinguish themselves by how they confront challenges, seeing them as opportunities to innovate and positively impact the world. Standing out requires creativity, resilience and an unshakeable belief in one’s ability to effect change. It calls for audacity and boldness in pursuing visionary goals with fervour and determination, readiness to take calculated risks, challenge existing paradigms and pioneer solutions for global challenges.
What advice would you give aspiring or new leaders who want to create a positive impact?
DS: I advise remaining anchored to your North Star. Envision the world as you believe it should be and let this vision steer every decision and action. Embrace humility and continuous learning. Leadership that leaves a mark is built on empathy and forging genuine connections with those you serve. Embody defiant optimism, challenge the status quo with actions driven by passion and a commitment to making even the most minor deeds catalyse broader change.
Read more: International youth art competition She Is More returns celebrating women’s defiance
Cherrie Atilano
Above Cherrie Atilano is an agricultural activist empowering communities through farming
Cherrie Atilano is an agricultural activist empowering communities through farming
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What was your thought process for selecting the most promising young leaders this year?
Cherrie Atilano (CA): I admire young leaders who exhibit the value of commitment, determination and authenticity towards their responsibilities. I have also been keen on their ability to be critical in choosing their battles, stand for what they believe is worth fighting for and have the absolute strength to say no while keeping their charisma with the people they work with.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
CA: Right intention combined with impactful action deeply rooted in purpose. Intrinsic motivation is required nowadays. People are looking for more shared values and purpose beyond monetary value, especially the younger generations who are looking for role models in addressing pressing societal and environmental issues.
How can young leaders stand out in a world full of great talent and innovation?
CA: Being young in general is a gift. It has a timeline. Young leaders must be able to embrace their uniqueness. This is a superpower to stand out in a world of so much great talent and innovation. Instead of seeing others as competition, see them as inspiration. The true competition is oneself and how to be better every day.
What advice would you give aspiring or new leaders who want to create a positive impact?
CA: I’ve been very lucky because I have found my purpose in my passion. Passion alone will not sustain you. It is about having that unquestionable amount of commitment, determination, focus and hard work to make things work. We live in a world and time where everything can be done at the tip of our fingers, but everything also moves too fast. We need to make sense of the growing technological innovations and be mindful to be connected to our values as human beings.
Read more: Flipina agri-activist Cherrie Atilano recognised as a 2024 Young Global Leader Mastercard Fellow
Lim Wei-Ling
Above Lim Wei-Ling is known for taking Malaysian art global and developing the local art scene through nurturing emerging Malaysian artists
Lim Wei-Ling is known for taking Malaysian art global and developing the local art scene through nurturing emerging Malaysian artists
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Director, Wei-Ling Gallery and Wei-Ling Contemporary
What went through your mind as you nominated and reviewed candidates for this year’s Leaders of Tomorrow?
Lim Wei-Ling (LW): As a gallerist, I look for the following qualities in identifying artists—passion, integrity, authenticity, conviction and perseverance. I find that individuals who possess these traits are committed to achieving whatever they set their minds to. I applied the same criteria in identifying the next generation of young leaders, as I know that with these traits, they will make good regardless of the circumstances presented.
How can young leaders stand out in a world full of great talent and innovation?
LW: A leader never compares themselves to their peers but chart new territory. By not exploring new areas, people can limit what they can achieve. Tread where no one has gone.
What advice would you give aspiring or new leaders who want to create a positive impact?
LW: As with all areas of life, what you give back has to be authentic to you and the organisation you lead. This is why authenticity and passion are imperative in all that we seek to do. One thing will lead to another organically. You will eventually discover the areas that are lacking in your particular industry, and create a positive impact in those areas.
Franco Varona
Above Franco Varona is investing in Filipino solutions
Franco Varona is investing in Filipino solutions
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Co-founder and managing partner, Foxmont Capital Partners
What was your thought process for selecting the most promising young leaders this year?
Franco Varona (FV): I continue to think of the most impactful entrepreneurs or individuals who are either building amazing solutions for the Philippines or are effecting change within my community of focus which is the nascent startup ecosystem of our country.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
FV: Effective leadership is one where vision and ambition are combined with the ability to rally the team to operational efficiency.
How can young leaders stand out in a world of full of great talent and innovation?
FV: Ambition and vision count for a lot, but the execution is going to be what makes one stand out from their peers.
What advice would you give aspiring or new leaders who want to create a positive impact?
FV: People often think that ‘positive impact’ needs a huge, complex solution. But one small step forward is often more than enough to create an impact in an emerging market like the Philippines.
Read more: This VC is backing Filipino innovators solving Filipino problems
Esther An
Above Esther An is promoting sustainability across sectors, speaking at events around the world and bringing people together to build partnerships
Esther An is promoting sustainability across sectors, speaking at events around the world and bringing people together to build partnerships
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Chief sustainability officer, CDL
What was your thought process for identifying promising talent for this year's Leaders of Tomorrow?
Esther An (EA): An important characteristic among young sustainability practitioners is whether they have true passion and more importantly, the ability and tenacity to turn ideas into action and create a positive impact for the environment. Being passionate, persistent and driven are strong traits that I looked out for in this year’s Leaders of Tomorrow.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
EA: In the sustainability field, innovation is pivotal for a climate-resilient future. A good sustainability leader is one who is curious and caring, a changemaker and a catalyst, creative and communicative, and consistent and committed to lifelong learning.
What is one piece of advice for aspiring or new leaders you would give to someone who wants to create a positive impact?
EA: Action matters. To deal with the climate emergency, there is no time to wait. Be bold and take action that can move the needle through collaboration and innovation.
Adlin Yusman
Above Adlin Yusman is an experienced digital leader with deep knowledge in the technology sphere with strong P&L management skills
Adlin Yusman is an experienced digital leader with deep knowledge in the technology sphere with strong P&L management skills
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Managing director, Endeavor Malaysia
What was your thought process for identifying promising talent for this year’s Leaders of Tomorrow?
Adlin Yusman (AY): In selecting the most promising young leaders this year, our thought process revolves around identifying high-impact entrepreneurs who exhibit the drive to dream bigger, the agility to scale faster and the commitment to paying it forward. Our criteria focus on recognising young leaders who demonstrate a forward-thinking mindset, a thirst for innovation and a dedication to driving optimistic change.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
AY: Effective leadership is not merely about achieving personal success but also about empowering others and creating a lasting legacy. It’s about going beyond individual achievements to give back and inspire the next generation of founders. Effective leaders showcase the power of the ‘multiplier effect’ by leveraging their influence to mentor, support and invest in others, thereby creating a ripple effect of positive impact.
How can young leaders today stand out in a world of so much great talent and innovation?
AY: In today’s highly competitive and innovative landscape, young leaders can differentiate themselves by mastering the art of storytelling. Beyond technical skills and qualifications, storytelling allows individuals to showcase their unique experiences, values and aspirations. By crafting a compelling narrative and possessing the skills to deliver it in a propelling manner, young leaders can capture attention, build rapport and set themselves apart from the rest of the field.
What is one piece of advice for aspiring or new leaders you would give to someone who wants to create a positive impact?
AY: For aspiring or new leaders aiming to create a positive impact, I offer the following guidance: seek mentorship. Mentorship is more than just guidance; it’s a catalyst for growth and a source of inspiration. By seeking out experienced mentors who have walked the path before them, high-impact entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights, avoid common pitfalls and accelerate their journey towards creating a meaningful and lasting footprint.
Read more: Why every successful entrepreneur has a mentor
Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein
Above Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein is widely recognised for transforming M&C Saatcha Malaysia into a creative powerhouse
Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein is widely recognised for transforming M&C Saatcha Malaysia into a creative powerhouse
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CEO and founder, M&C Saatchi Malaysia
What was your thought process for identifying promising talent for this year's Leaders of Tomorrow?
Datin Sri Sharifah Menyalara Hussein (Lara): When selecting candidates I look at six key criteria that helped me evaluate and determine the good vs the great: business acumen, leadership skills, performance and results, innovation and creativity, marketing and branding, resilience and adaptability.
What does effective leadership look like to you?
Lara: A good leader should demonstrate a clear vision for the business to inspire others. It’s essential for them to communicate openly, with transparency and honesty. Humility is crucial, as I value leaders who are humble, self-aware and exude natural confidence. Such leaders are accountable, taking responsibility for their decisions while being decisive. Intelligence is important, but it should be coupled with strong empathy, emotional intelligence and a commitment to inclusivity, treating everyone equally.
What is one piece of advice for aspiring or new leaders you would give to someone who wants to create a positive impact?
Lara: My advice is to be authentic and genuine. If you’re passionate about a solid business idea, that enthusiasm will shine through. Never become complacent; always strive to expand your knowledge and inspire others by sharing your insights. Patience is a virtue. Don’t rush success. Take measured steps, and practise diligently for client and management meetings. Perfection comes with practice. Lastly, have faith in your endeavours and maintain a positive outlook on the future.
Read more: How this non-profit is empowering Malaysia’s underrepresented youth
Dato’ Dr Nick Boden
Above Dato’ Dr Nick Boden is an entrepreneur whose goal is to drive a circular economy transformation through sustainability and recycling
Dato’ Dr Nick Boden is an entrepreneur whose goal is to drive a circular economy transformation through sustainability and recycling
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What does effective leadership look like to you?
Dato’ Dr Nick Boden (NB): They must have a vision; the ability to have and stick to a vision that matches an impact aligned with an SDG (sustainable development goals) mindset. The leadership must be willing to get their hands dirty. The leadership should be able to help and understand all processes of your business and lead by example. Lastly, the leadership must be inclusive and ensure that products and services are accessible to everyone.
How can young leaders stand out today in a great talent and innovation world?
NB: Firstly, it’s important young leaders get themselves away from the comfort of the cities and go to the ground to see the real challenges faced by society. Secondly, create innovative solutions to these problems that can be rapidly scaled to impact positively on society. Thirdly, work hard daily to constantly improve your solutions and ensure maximum impact on society and the environment.
What is one piece of advice for aspiring or new leaders you would give to someone who wants to create a positive impact?
NB: Use the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a blueprint when viewing your business and its potential impact. Try and build as many SDG ‘touch-points’ into the business model to ensure maximum impact.
The Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow 2024 launches on June 3. In the meantime, meet the Leaders of Tomorrow from 2023.
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Syrah is Tatler Philippines’ Power & Purpose editor, where she spotlights extraordinary journeys shaping the Philippines and Asia. She covers business, innovation, impact, and culture—chasing the people, ideas and forces shaping how we live and think today.
