The seventh edition of the Global Business Leadership Forum (GBLF) and Asian African Iconic Awards 2025 took place recently at Water’s Edge, bringing together a diverse assembly of visionaries, changemakers and global influencers from Asia and Africa. Held under the theme ‘Global Vision, Local Action’, the event aimed to foster meaningful dialogue, promote sustainable leadership, and recognise impactful contributions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.
Addressing the gathering, Nobel Laureate and sustainability expert Mohan Munasinghe highlighted the urgent need for climate justice, emphasising that human activities over the past five decades have been the primary contributors to global warming. He noted that the burden of greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation must be shared more equitably, with richer nations bearing greater responsibility due to their high per capita emissions and financial capacity. Munasinghe stressed that sustainability—founded on ethical values and efficient resource use—is essential for future growth and equity. “We must transcend stakeholder boundaries to build the sustainability implementation triangle,” he said, calling on businesses to embrace leadership and good governance in protecting the development space.
The forum attracted participation from over 25 countries, featuring more than 10 high-profile speakers, including ambassadors, diplomats and influential business leaders. Among the event’s key speakers was Dr. G.D. Singh, Founder and Chairman of the Asian African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI) and CIAC Global. Dr. Singh spoke passionately about global cooperation and the role of ethical entrepreneurship in shaping a peaceful and prosperous future. He praised the efforts of passionate innovators and peace-builders and underlined the significance of the forum in promoting entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and sustainable growth.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Passion Vista’s Women Leaders Special Edition, which honoured influential women leaders from around the world who have made notable contributions in various fields. The event also featured a Sustainable Development Fashion Parade curated by leading designers, creatively aligning fashion with the UN SDGs. The showcase emphasized ethical production, environmental awareness, and socially responsible innovation in the fashion industry.
The Asian African Iconic Awards segment celebrated outstanding individuals and institutions from education, healthcare, sustainability, diplomacy, and social entrepreneurship, who have demonstrated excellence and impact across borders.
The forum was jointly hosted by Unified Brainz Virtuoso Limited in collaboration with AACCI, CIAC Global and the World Peace and Diplomacy Organization (WPDO), reinforcing a shared commitment to global progress through collaboration, innovation and inclusive development.
