The Forum of Young Global Leaders (YGLs), created in 2004, is a unique community formed by the most exceptional leaders from every region of the world and every stakeholder in society. These honorees have committed their energy and knowledge to the most critical issues facing humankind. Already successful and accomplished in their own fields, they join and create a community of insight and action that is truly committed to improving the state of the world. The YGL community is the voice of an optimistic future and an energetic catalyst for change.
The Forum of Young Global Leaders has established a comprehensive selection process for identifying and selecting the most exceptional leaders 40 years of age or younger. Every year, thousands of candidates from around the world are proposed and assessed according to rigorous selection criteria. Only the very best candidates are selected and all efforts are extended to create a truly representative body. Reflecting the diversity of stakeholders, the Young Global Leaders include leaders from politics, business, civil society, academia and arts and culture from across seven geographic regions. Together, they form a unique community that can dramatically affect the lives of future generations and craft innovative responses to address global and regional challenges. It is a support system that questions, and constantly pushes its members to not only do more, but to be more, too.
This year's class of YGLs come from 66 countries and equally represent the public and private sectors. Out of the total 214 YGLs honored, 109 are women. Bold, brave, action-oriented and entrepreneurial, these select individuals have proven their commitment to making the world a better place. From Japan, seven outstanding people have been chosen to be part of this remarkable community.