Meet the class of 2025

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Gen Z: Leading with Transparency and Shaping the Future of Work

At Web Summit Vancouver 2025, a panel discussion featuring Ms. Loren Gray, Mr. Jaspar Carmichael-Jack, and Mr. Zach Yadegari explored how Gen Z is reshaping leadership and the future of work. The panelists discussed the importance of transparency, the challenges of short attention spans, and how to build a personal brand in today’s digital age. They also addressed the generational divide in leadership styles and the impact of social media on communication.

Ms. Gray emphasized the value of transparency in leadership, noting that it fosters stronger connections and builds trust within teams. Mr. Carmichael-Jack agreed, adding that transparency can even be used strategically to generate interest and growth, as his company has demonstrated with its provocative marketing campaigns. Mr. Yadegari highlighted the importance of structure and organization in leadership, particularly for young leaders who may initially lack experience in managing teams.

The panelists also discussed the challenges of maintaining focus in a world of constant distractions. Mr. Yadegari admitted to using apps to limit his social media consumption, while Ms. Gray acknowledged the difficulty of balancing the need for quick communication with the desire for deeper engagement. They agreed that the ability to communicate concisely and effectively is crucial in today’s fast-paced environment.

When asked about the criticism that Gen Z is entitled, the panelists pushed back against this stereotype. Ms. Gray argued that Gen Z is passionate and driven, but often faces economic constraints that limit their ability to pursue their goals. Mr. Yadegari pointed out that the perception of younger generations as less hardworking is a recurring theme throughout history, and that Gen Z is no exception. Ms. Gray added that the changing work landscape, particularly with the rise of remote work, has made it difficult for older generations to understand how Gen Z approaches work.

The discussion also touched on the importance of building a personal brand. Ms. Gray advised founders to be authentic and true to themselves, while Mr. Carmichael-Jack emphasized the value of building a brand in public and sharing the entrepreneurial journey, even the challenging parts. Ms. Gray cautioned against forced authenticity, noting that audiences can easily detect inauthenticity.

Finally, the panelists addressed the increasing polarization of society and the difficulty of having productive conversations with people who hold different views. Mr. Yadegari suggested avoiding political discussions in the workplace altogether, while Ms. Gray advocated for in-person conversations as a way to humanize political issues and bridge divides. She believes that finding common ground and understanding different perspectives is essential for progress.