Every year, the World Economic Forum selects 100 of the world's most promising artists, business leaders, public servants, scientists and social entrepreneurs as Young Global Leaders. These people will join a five-year program that will challenge them to think beyond their scope of expertise and be more impactful leaders.
Genequest Inc. CEO Shoko Takahashi was one of two Japanese entrepreneurs named as YGLs. She was chosen for creating a startup company that provides individuals with comprehensive information on their genome.
Her company is the first in Japan to provide genome-wide human genetic testing services for consumers. Takahashi, who established Genequest in June 2013 while researching her doctorate degree on the human genome, runs the company not only as a short-term business, but also as a long-term research vehicle.