Akilnathan Logeswaran is the latest recruit from CEMS to be elected the community, made up of entrepreneurially and socially minded young leaders under the age of 30, who aspire to devise solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.
Handpicked on their individual merits and achievements by representatives from the WEF, the Global Shapers are organised into city-based "hubs", and work together to make a positive impact on their local communities and the wider world through social initiatives.
Akilnathan was selected this year following a recommendation to the WEF by a fellow CEMS student. He now heads the online presence of the Global Shapers Hub in Munich and is working with his team to implement a project to improve the lives of refugees living in the city.
CEMS is a global alliance of 29 leading business school and universities which, together with the support of more than 70 Corporate Partners and four Social Partners, offer a pre-experience Masters in International Management to students around the world.
Akilnathan believes his study experience has helped him to develop a greater understanding as a global citizen.
He says,
"With CEMS we're experiencing the genesis of a community where it does not matter where your roots lie, but what you believe in. Studying the CEMS MiM uniquely teaches how to be culturally sensitive and stick to your own value system."
The Global Shapers make up the youngest contingent of the WEF. Other CEMS students selected to join the community include Tomas Pagirys, Francesco Crivellari, Matthias Reisinger and Joao Rafael Brites.
Roland Siegers, Executive Director of CEMS says,
"The CEMS alliance is proud to see our alumni take a lead in addressing the challenges of the 21st Century. These young leaders stand for the mission that CEMS represents, educating and preparing future generations of global leaders to shape our interconnected world, drawing upon cultural diversity with respect and empathy."
To learn more about the Global Shapers Community, please go to www.globalshapers.org