Established in 2019, RED CLUB x Cartier is a vibrant global network of multicultural entrepreneurs committed to driving positive change. Launched in 2021, the Young Leader Award serves as a hallmark of this mission, celebrating entrepreneurs aged 20 to 40 who lead socially responsible businesses.
The 2024 edition of the YLA focused on the theme “Tech for a Sustainable Future,” highlighting groundbreaking solutions that address significant environmental and social challenges. This year saw participation from 66 countries, underscoring the program's extensive reach and diversity.
Cyrille Vigneron, Chairman of Cartier Culture & Philanthropy, reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to supporting impactful entrepreneurship. “At Cartier, we believe in the transformative power of young leaders to drive meaningful change. The Young Leader Award exemplifies our dedication to those shaping a better future. We are proud to support these exceptional individuals who create innovative solutions that foster economic growth while enhancing environmental and social well-being,” he stated.
Notable Winners and Projects
The jury for the Young Leader Award recognized two winners this year, acknowledging the extraordinary quality and impact of their projects:
Didi Gan, Founder of N&E Innovations (Singapore), developed an edible antimicrobial product made from upcycled food waste. This innovative technology offers a sustainable alternative to conventional disinfectants, significantly lowering carbon emissions while providing B2B and B2C applications. Gan expressed gratitude for the recognition: “Being part of YLA 2024 empowers me to drive transformative change towards a more sustainable planet by minimizing the use of harmful chemicals.”
Suraj Nandakumar, Co-founder and CEO of Recity Network (India), leads a Circular Plastic Asset Management Company that delivers both environmental and economic value through ethically sourced, traceable post-consumer plastics recyclables. Nandakumar shared his excitement, stating, “Recity Network is honored to be recognized by RED CLUB x Cartier. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of our efforts in promoting sustainability and circularity in plastics. It inspires us to expand our influence and continue progressing towards a more sustainable and innovative future.”
Both winners will receive a grant of €50,000, along with international exposure, media visibility, and a tailored mentorship program from the National University of Singapore Business School (NUS) and the University of Sydney Business School, this year’s academic partners.
Runners-Up Recognized
This year’s runners-up, Enrico Di Oto, Founder and CEO of OACP (Italy), and Aasawari Kane, Founding member and Head of Growth at PadCare Labs (India), will each receive €10,000. Di Oto’s OACP focuses on rapid cancer diagnosis through advanced biotechnological solutions, while Kane’s PadCare Labs innovates in recycling used menstrual pads into valuable materials, enhancing menstrual hygiene management.
The awards ceremony took place at the National Gallery, attracting 150 guests, including entrepreneurs, academics, media representatives, and thought leaders. Following an opening address by Cyrille Vigneron emphasizing Cartier’s commitment to innovation, Lu Zhang, a jury member and Founder & Managing Partner of Fusion Fund, delivered a keynote on the intersection of technology and sustainability.
The evening featured a fireside chat with Richard Li, Head of RED CLUB x Cartier Sydney Chapter and Co-Founder of July, moderated by Charmaine Yee, discussing entrepreneurship and the Young Leader Award's impact. The dialogue highlighted the crucial role of education in nurturing entrepreneurial talent, with insights from representatives of NUS and the University of Sydney Business School.
Professor Andrew Delios, Vice Dean of Master of Science Programmes at NUS Business School, remarked, “The Young Leader Award is vital in recognizing the talents of our youth. It reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of individual initiative, aligning seamlessly with the values we promote in our students.”
Suresh Cuganesan, Deputy Dean at the University of Sydney Business School, added, “We will collaborate with the winning Young Leader, leveraging our faculty’s expertise and entrepreneurial ecosystem to support their future endeavors.”
The event concluded with remarks from Yanina Novitskaya, CEO of Cartier SEAO, who expressed gratitude to Cartier’s partners for their support in shaping a better future for future generations.
The next edition of the Young Leader Award is set for 2026, with applications opening in autumn 2025, inviting a new wave of visionary entrepreneurs to share their transformative ideas.
About Cartier
Cartier, a renowned name in the luxury sector, is celebrated for its creations that embody open-mindedness and curiosity. From jewelry and watches to fragrances and leather goods, Cartier's work represents the fusion of exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance. The brand is part of the Richemont Group and boasts a global presence through flagship stores, authorized retail partners, and online platforms.
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