Cover Out of the many interviews conducted by the Gen.T team in 2024, some stood out, such as the one with the Dumaliang sisters (Photo: Tatler)
Out of the many interviews conducted by the Gen.T team in 2024, some stood out, such as the one with the Dumaliang sisters (Photo: Tatler)
1 / 1
These are the conversations that remained with the team long after the interview was over, inspiring us with their stories of resilience, fearlessness and courage
In 2024, Tatler had the privilege of interviewing some of the most extraordinary young individuals shaping Asia’s future. This collection represents our top interviews from the Gen.T Leaders of Tomorrow community, a carefully curated selection of the brightest minds and most innovative leaders across the region.
From entrepreneurs who’re looking to increase connectivity to conservationists dedicated to preserving our planet’s diversity, we’ve gained exclusive insights into the journeys of these changemakers who are redefining industries and inspiring a generation. Their stories offer a glimpse into the future of Asia and the individuals who are building it.
Read more: How Halia’s founder Alexandra Jocom champions sustainability, one biodegradable period pad at a time
Rohit Jha has a healthy disrespect for expert advice
Above Rohit Jha, co-founder of Transcelestial, is increasing connectivity speeds and access around the globe (Photo: Darren Gabriel Leow)
Rohit Jha, co-founder of Transcelestial, is increasing connectivity speeds and access around the globe (Photo: Darren Gabriel Leow)
1 / 1
“I enjoyed listening to and writing the stories of all the people I met this year. One that really stood out was my conversation with Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow Rohit Jha in August, a month before he moved to San Francisco from Singapore to expand his business. I remember it clearly because in an hour, I learned so much about space lasers, which his company Transcelestial is building.
“And his quote about needing to ‘have a healthy disrespect for what experts in your field say’ sums up the entrepreneurial mindset and how he’s been able to break into a highly traditional and difficult industry—and I respect that.”— Chong Seow Wei, regional senior editor, Tatler Gen.T
Read the story: ‘You have to have a healthy disrespect for industry experts’: Transcelestial’s Rohit Jha is connecting the world using deep space
Former US Green Beret Gene Yu led the rescue of Evelyn Chang from a group of militants
Above Gene Yu is the founder and CEO of Blackpanda (Photo: Gene Yu)
Gene Yu is the founder and CEO of Blackpanda (Photo: Gene Yu)
1 / 1
“I enjoyed talking to Gene Yu, a former US Army Special Forces officer turned founder and CEO of cybersecurity firm Blackpanda. His story is a testament to how preparation, discipline and resilience can converge with opportunity, even if that opportunity doesn’t arise until decades later or in the most unexpected of circumstances. It demonstrates how our actions, no matter how seemingly small or disconnected at the time, can guide us toward a higher purpose.”— Valerie Lim, digital editor, Tatler Gen.T
Read the story: Forged in battle: How former US Army Special Forces officer Gene Yu turned military grit into entrepreneurial success
Matthew Kwok wants children to be connected with their emotions
Above Matthew Kwok is the co-founder of Just Feel (Photo: Zed Leets)
Matthew Kwok is the co-founder of Just Feel (Photo: Zed Leets)
1 / 1
“Growing up in Hong Kong, I witnessed firsthand the emotional toll that exam preparation can take on students. School, which should be a place for exploration, growth and enjoyment, often turns into a source of overwhelming stress. That’s why I am grateful for the efforts of Just Feel, which seeks to cultivate a more compassionate culture in our schools—an essential aspect often overlooked in such a competitive environment.
“In the article, Gen.T Honouree Matthew Kwok, co-founder of Just Feel, said, ‘A more loving society is built by a group of more loving individuals.’ Regardless of our societal roles or current positions, it is important to pause and reflect on our actions before we move forward. We are all integral parts of our communities, and by making choices that prioritise not only our interests but also the well-being of others, we can build a better world for everyone” —Yoyo Chow, editor, Tatler Gen.T
Read the story: Our exam-focused Asian cultures are producing children who can’t emote or voice their needs
The Dumaliang sisters are bravely conserving the Philippines’s rich biodiversity
Above The Dumaliang sisters are driven by their mission of preserving the Masungi Georeserve in the Philippines (Illustration: Raphael Quiason)
The Dumaliang sisters are driven by their mission of preserving the Masungi Georeserve in the Philippines (Illustration: Raphael Quiason)
1 / 1
“For years, I’ve admired sisters Ann and Billie Dumaliang’s fearless work at Masungi Georeserve, turning limestone landscapes into battlegrounds for conservation and hope. It’s not just their courage and grit that inspires me, it’s their ability to rally a community, face down challenges and protect what matters most while shattering stereotypes. Their work feels like a call to action all while proving that youth and passion can drive change, one tree, one trail and one triumph at a time.” —Syrah Inocencio, Gen.T and lists editor
Read the story: Ann and Billie Dumaliang bravely stand for conservation at the Masungi Georeserve
