Under a darkened sky, with rain drumming against the windows, I had the privilege yesterday of being the first speaker to address the Edinburgh Sunday Assembly following its recent feature on Scottish Television.
The atmosphere was electric, as new faces arrived, just as predicted. People of all ages, from diverse backgrounds, and with no unifying religion – united instead by curiosity and hope – came to hear fresh ideas.
In just 20 minutes, I shared a new perspective on current events, grounded in real evidence of a world that’s shifting towards greater conciliation and economic balance. This wasn’t about empty promises; it was about tangible change already underway: a pivot to stakeholder capitalism, where businesses are held accountable not just for profits, but for their impact on employees, communities, and the environment.
The movement is gaining momentum, backed by 90% of C-Suite executives and respected publications like the Financial Times. At its core lies a simple truth: business success doesn’t happen in isolation. It relies on society’s contributions – government loans, an educated workforce, national infrastructure, research breakthroughs, and a healthy environment.
When businesses recognize this interconnectedness, redistributing wealth isn’t just fair – it’s essential for long-term sustainability.
A New Generation, A New Vision
What excites me most is the rise of brilliant young minds who are reshaping politics, business, and civic leadership. Who would have imagined a female mayor in Afghanistan or women negotiating leadership roles in a new Syrian government? These shifts are happening worldwide.
Young people are tackling climate change, inequality, and injustice head-on. They’re redefining businesses as forces for good, creating models that prioritize purpose alongside profit.
For businesses, the incentives are clear. This isn’t just about opening up new opportunities in a receptive marketplace – it’s about winning the hearts and minds of over 80% of consumers who want their purchases to contribute positively to the world. And businesses that act now? They’re thriving.
The Tipping Point Is Here
Yes, some still defend outdated models of rapacious capitalism. But Generation Z is different. They’re sharper, more globally connected, and more confident than ever. They reject antiquated power structures, dismantle workplace hierarchies, and condemn racism and colonialism.
And they’re already proving their impact. They operate in real-time, leveraging AI and digital commerce to create new income streams. They are our next entrepreneurs, inventors, and parents.
This was the speech people wanted to hear, as the responses confirmed:
Governments may still be playing catch-up, but this generation isn’t waiting. They are charting the course, and the rest of us would be wise to follow.
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