Imagine boarding a flight and finding a relatively young, quiet person in first class – perhaps not who you expected. In 2025, this could signal something significant. These individuals might be successful young entrepreneurs from high-growth markets where digital adoption is rapid, demographics are shifting, and startup sectors are booming. In these regions, youth can be a multiplier for success. Examples include leaders from Africa and Asia building major companies or social enterprises. They are signals of global shifts that will shape the future.
When faced with this encounter, you have choices: stick to networking with peers, retreat into your own space, or talk but primarily share your own experience. However, being open and curious – an exploration-led approach – allows you to discover their story, momentum, and view.
This can provide expanded context and insights into emerging markets and business models before they become mainstream where you are. These encounters don't need your validation, but they can sharpen your strategy and offer valuable market intelligence.
Ultimately, the person in the seat beside you can be an unexplored window. Getting to your destination is key, but who you meet along the way can matter more, offering pathways to strategic insights and ideas. It's where serendipity meets the open-minded.
This forms part of the Crossing Borders scenario-based series by Sophie Krantz, global strategist.
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