Shayan Mahmud Named Only Pakistani in World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2026

Entrepreneur and business leader Shayan Mahmud has been selected as the only Pakistani in the prestigious Young Global Leaders (YGL) Class of 2026, as announced by the World Economic Forum.

The 2026 cohort includes 118 outstanding leaders under the age of 40 from 55 countries, representing diverse fields such as business, public service, science, culture, and civil society. The recognition honors individuals who are not only excelling in their respective domains but are also shaping the future through innovation, leadership, and meaningful impact.

Shayan Mahmud is widely known for his contributions to media, advertising, technology, and digital content. He is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of ProPakistani, one of Pakistan’s leading digital media platforms. He is also the Managing Partner at Eikon7 and the Chairman and Founder of Trademor.

In addition, Mahmud hosts the “How Does It Work (HDIW)” podcast, where he breaks down complex topics related to current affairs, business, and sports into simple and practical insights for a wider audience.

His selection in the YGL Class of 2026 highlights Pakistan’s growing presence in global leadership platforms and underscores the country’s potential in innovation and digital transformation.