The 21st century is a period of rapid evolution not just in the way humans live and interact but in the new challenges they face. Generation Z (or Gen Z), in particular, finds themselves navigating a complex array of challenges and dilemmas that set them apart from previous generations.
Born into a digital era with unprecedented access to information and connectivity, Gen Z grapples with issues ranging from the climate crisis to socio-economic disparities, all against the backdrop of a global pandemic. In response to these unique concerns, visionary CEOs are emerging as key architects of change, pioneering solutions that resonate with Gen Z’s values and aspirations.
From opening pathways to entrepreneurship to redefining the fashion industry with affordable and sustainable options, these leaders are ultimately shaping a future that aligns with the distinctive needs and expectations of Gen Z. What do these visionary leaders advocate?
Entrepreneurial Starter Pack: Yali Saar, Tailor Brands
Yali Saar, the innovative CEO and co-founder of Tailor Brands, is a driving force behind the cutting-edge AI-driven, all-in-one business-building platform that has transformed the entrepreneurial landscape. With a rich background at the intersection of creative marketing and media, Saar has harnessed his diverse experiences, including conflict correspondence and political spokesperson roles, to lead Tailor Brands in providing a revolutionary solution for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Tailor Brands, under Saar’s visionary leadership, caters to Gen Z by offering a user-friendly entrepreneurial platform that seamlessly integrates AI technology, providing personalized guidance and resources to empower individuals on their journey to financial independence. Saar’s commitment to innovation is evident not only in Tailor Brands but also in his prior initiative, “Raising the Bar,” demonstrating his dedication to integrating education into popular culture. His expertise and creative vision make Yali Saar a trailblazing CEO shaping the future of business empowerment for the next generation.
Reshaping Digital Mental Health: Dr. Grin Lord, mpathic
As the founder and CEO of mpathic.ai, Dr. Grin Lord leads the charge in revolutionizing empathy and human conversation analytics. She not only heads the groundbreaking venture but also spearheads Therapists in Tech (TnT), a dynamic community of over 3,000 digital mental health professionals actively shaping the landscape of digital mental healthcare. Dr. Lord’s illustrious career boasts pivotal roles such as Chief Clinical Officer at Lyssn.io, Clinical Product Psychologist at Youper.ai, and Research Scientist at the esteemed University of Washington.
Her extensive expertise traverses diverse domains including generative AI, conversational design, the fusion of AI and machine learning to enrich human connection, evidence-based therapies, health coaching, and psychology. Dr. Lord’s remarkable journey encompasses a substantial tenure as a clinician-researcher within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Washington since 2007.
Making New Connections: Ben Pasternak, Monkey
Ben Pasternak‘s journey from app creation to tech entrepreneurship is a testament to his prodigious talent and visionary approach. His rise to prominence began with the creation of the ‘Monkey‘ app, designed for spontaneous video chats, which quickly gained traction among Gen Z users, showcasing his intuitive understanding of the desires and preferences of the younger generation.
The app’s cultural phenomenon status propelled Pasternak into the tech industry spotlight, attracting significant investments and endorsements, and leading to international recognition. As a teenager, he demonstrated entrepreneurial acumen, capitalizing on emerging trends and capturing the attention of influential figures and major investors. The success of ‘Monkey’ not only solidified Pasternak’s reputation as a tech prodigy but also fostered collaborations with industry leaders, further establishing him as an innovative force on the international stage.
Strengthening Online Communities: Jason Citron, Discord
Jason Citron, co-founder of Discord, has profoundly impacted the tech landscape by creating a versatile communication platform that initially targeted gamers but organically became a Gen Z favorite. Discord’s intuitive design and accessibility made it a cultural phenomenon, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a shift from a gaming-centric to a general-purpose communication tool.
Under Citron’s leadership, Discord’s valuation soared to $15 billion by 2021, despite acquisition offers, showcasing a commitment to independence. The platform’s strategic innovations, like server templates and improved user onboarding, reflect Citron’s adaptability and dedication to meeting the evolving needs of online communities. Discord’s collaborations, acquisitions, and features like “Watch Together” demonstrate Citron’s entrepreneurial prowess, emphasizing the platform’s dynamic and user-centric nature, making it a go-to space for Gen Z communication.
Financial Revolution: Kathryn Petralia, Keep Financial
Kathryn Petralia, CEO and Co-Founder of Keep Financial, boasts extensive experience as a financial services leader. Over the past two decades, she has immersed herself in the realms of credit, payments, technology, and e-commerce, collaborating with both startups and established enterprises. At Keep Financial, Kathryn spearheads a revolution in compensation management, aimed at enhancing recruitment, retention, and performance alignment with business objectives and ROI. Through Keep’s innovative platform, employers can offer employees progressive compensation structures, motivating prolonged tenure while empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals.
Prior to her role at Keep Financial, Kathryn co-founded Kabbage, a pioneering fintech venture catering to small businesses. Under her guidance, Kabbage secured $400 million in equity, extended capital to 500,000 U.S. small businesses, and facilitated $16 billion in funding before its acquisition by American Express in October 2020.
