The world today faces many challenges, from climate change and inequality to growing uncertainty about the future, all of which continue to test how businesses and societies grow. These pressures have led leaders to rethink what success truly means and recognise the need for a new kind of leadership built on empathy, responsibility, and long-term vision. This belief shaped the Steward Leadership Summit (SLS) 2025, held on 8 October 2025 at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel in Singapore, under the theme “Happiness and Compassion for Prosperity.”
Hosted by the Stewardship Asia Centre (SAC) under Temasek Trust, the summit brought together leaders from government, business, and the social sector across the Asia-Pacific region. Speakers such as Bhutan’s Dasho Karma Tshiteem and Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, along with Professor Ivy Ng of Temasek Trust, shared insights on how compassion, well-being, and values-based leadership can create stronger institutions and a better future for all.
At the centre of this year’s summit was the Steward Leadership 25 (SL25), an annual award that celebrates organisations leading the way in balancing business success with positive social and environmental impact. Curated by SAC in collaboration with the INSEAD Hoffmann Institute, WTW, and The Straits Times, SL25 has grown into a powerful regional movement. Since its launch, the 2025 edition reached new milestones, with almost 450 applications from 27 countries and 25 industries. Many of the selected projects use technology and artificial intelligence to improve lives, support small businesses, and protect the environment.
Among this year’s winners, Inclusion Factory became the first China-based organisation to be recognised for its work in creating inclusive manufacturing opportunities for persons with disabilities. Singapore’s reach52, a repeat winner, continues to deliver affordable digital healthcare to underserved communities across Southeast Asia. Their achievements demonstrate how steward leadership principles translate into real-world progress that uplifts both people and the planet.
The influence of SL25 reaches far beyond recognition. By showcasing real solutions that balance purpose and profit, the awards have helped spread awareness of steward leadership around the world. Many organisations have gained stronger credibility with investors and new opportunities for collaboration, while others have formed partnerships through the SL25 network to expand their impact.
This movement reflects Stewardship Asia Centre’s own evolution. More than ten years ago, SAC began by creating human-capital and succession programmes to build ethical, resilient leaders. Today, it continues that mission through education and advocacy, promoting stewardship as a bridge between business success, social good, and environmental responsibility. As a regional hub for responsible leadership, Singapore provides the ideal setting for this mission, fostering collaboration and innovation that extend beyond the summit.
The Steward Leadership Summit 2025 reminded participants that compassion and happiness are not abstract ideals but essential qualities for lasting prosperity. Through the continued growth of SL25, SAC has helped establish stewardship as a unifying approach to leadership, one that seeks shared prosperity for Planet, People, Peace, and Progress.
