Shayan Mahmud, an entrepreneur and business leader, has been named in the Young Global Leaders (YGL) Class of 2026. The announcement was made by the World Economic Forum. He is the only Pakistani selected in this year’s cohort.
The recognition highlights emerging leaders from around the world. The 2026 class includes 118 individuals under the age of 40. They represent 55 countries across business, science, public service, civil society, and culture.
Shayan Mahmud is widely known for his work in media, technology, advertising, and content development. He has built a strong reputation as a digital entrepreneur. His work focuses on innovation and accessible communication.
He is also a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. In addition, Shayan Mahmud serves as the Chief Executive Officer of ProPakistani. He is also Managing Partner at Eikon7 and Chairman and Founder of Trademor. These roles highlight his influence in Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.
Apart from business leadership, Shayan Mahmud hosts the “How Does It Work (HDIW)” podcast. The show explains current affairs, sports, and business topics. It aims to simplify complex ideas for wider audiences.
The Young Global Leaders program is an initiative of the World Economic Forum. It was founded in 2004. The program selects exceptional leaders from across the globe through a rigorous process.
Selected members join a three-year leadership journey. It includes executive learning, collaboration across sectors, and discussions on global challenges. The program is designed to develop leadership skills and global impact.
The 2026 cohort includes several well-known international figures. These include leaders from technology, business, and public service. South Asian representation is also visible in the list.
The inclusion of Shayan Mahmud reflects Pakistan’s growing presence in global innovation and entrepreneurship. It also highlights the role of emerging markets in shaping modern industries. His selection places him among influential global changemakers.
Officials and observers view this achievement as a milestone for Pakistan. It strengthens the country’s visibility on international platforms. It also showcases the rising impact of digital entrepreneurs from the region.
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Overall, Shayan Mahmud’s selection marks an important recognition of his professional journey. It also reflects the expanding role of Pakistani leaders in global conversations on technology, media, and business transformation.
