The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has launched its Young Leaders Forum (YLF), a new initiative designed to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs, family business leaders, innovators, and professionals. The launch event, held at the Rendezvous Ballroom, Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, brought together young entrepreneurs, industry veterans, and business leaders to discuss the future of leadership and innovation in India’s evolving economic landscape.
The initiative reflects ICC’s commitment to strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by equipping emerging leaders with mentorship, knowledge-sharing opportunities, and industry networking.
A Platform for Future Business Leaders
The Young Leaders Forum has been established to help young professionals navigate the changing business environment while connecting them with experienced industry leaders. Through mentorship, collaboration, and administrative guidance, the platform aims to strengthen leadership capabilities, organizational skills, and professional networks.
The forum is expected to create opportunities for cross-sector collaboration while helping participants prepare for the rapidly evolving global business landscape.
Driving Innovation and Collaboration
Speaking at the launch, Ankit Gupta, Chairman, ICC Young Leaders Forum, Mumbai, described the initiative as an important milestone in developing India’s future business leadership.
“The launch of the ICC Young Leaders Forum is a crucial moment in our commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders. India is at the brink of seeing unparalleled economic growth driven especially by the entrepreneurial spirit of its youth that will shape the country’s future. We see the Young Leaders Forum as a catalyst for ideas, leadership and collaboration to make India globally competitive,” he said.
Echoing the vision, Siddharth Sethi, Vice-Chair, Young Leaders Forum, highlighted the need for platforms that encourage meaningful networking and mentorship.
“The Young Leaders Forum is founded with a nurturing vision which is to build the community where young leaders network and grow hand-in-hand. YLF aims to nurture an environment that induces innovation, cross-industry partnerships and lifelong learning,” he said.
Ananya Birla Inspires Emerging Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneur Ananya Birla attended the event as the Guest of Honour, sharing her entrepreneurial journey and leadership experiences with the audience.
During her address, she encouraged young entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, think independently, and build businesses that are sustainable over the long term. She also emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to one’s vision while navigating entrepreneurial challenges.
According to the organisers, Birla highlighted that today’s entrepreneurs have unprecedented opportunities to build businesses that create both commercial success and meaningful social impact.
Strengthening India’s Leadership Ecosystem
An ICC spokesperson described the forum as an investment in India’s future leadership, noting that emerging entrepreneurs are increasingly shaping industries through innovation.
The spokesperson said the platform would facilitate thoughtful collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing sessions to help young professionals lead with purpose, resilience, and integrity.
Support from Industry and Government
Addressing the gathering, Aditya Thackeray, MLA, Maharashtra, said India’s youth remain its greatest strength and emphasized the importance of creating ecosystems that enable collaboration between young entrepreneurs and experienced business leaders.
He noted that initiatives such as the Young Leaders Forum can play a significant role in helping Maharashtra and India strengthen their position as global hubs for innovation and enterprise.
Continuing ICC’s Legacy
Founded by Shri G.D. Birla, the Indian Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 100 years of service to the nation. The launch of the Young Leaders Forum marks another milestone in its efforts to strengthen India’s business ecosystem by supporting the country’s next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Through the Young Leaders Forum, ICC aims to create a long-term platform where emerging professionals can learn from experienced leaders, build strategic relationships, and contribute to India’s economic growth through innovation and responsible leadership.
By : Vanshika Tayal
