Editorial by Managing Director Alexander De Beir
Today’s youth? Simply outstanding.
I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this firsthand for the past five years, ever since the inaugural edition of the ADM Goodwill Cup – our annual hockey tournament that inspires young people between 18 and 30 to give their all for charitable causes. What makes each edition increasingly successful is the contagious enthusiasm and the rare talent these young adults possess: they take the causes seriously, but never take themselves too seriously. Teams from across the country now actively contribute to what has become a nationwide movement.
As an entrepreneur with a fair number of years and ventures behind me, I draw three uplifting conclusions from observing these young people, especially knowing they’ll be powering our economy in the decades to come with talent, resilience and drive.
A 57% rise in young entrepreneurs
My first insight: entrepreneurial spirit now courses through the veins of young adults more than ever before. This isn’t just a gut feeling; it’s backed by data. According to VLAIO, Flanders’ main resource for entrepreneurs, the number of self-employed individuals aged 18 to 25 has increased by 57% over the past decade.
Young People Increasingly Launching Businesses – “Very Cool to Be Your Own Boss” (De Standaard)
Half of All Young Adults Want to Start Their Own Business (VOKA)
What’s driving this trend? Many young people are eager to become their own boss. Not only for financial reasons, but for the freedom it brings and the opportunity to express their creativity and skills more fully. Initiatives like the student-entrepreneur status in Belgium have undoubtedly helped fuel this evolution.
Collaboration without borders
Second observation: today’s youth are more than comfortable working ad hoc. Fluidly teaming up with peers or even with more seasoned colleagues. Intergenerational collaboration is not just welcomed, it’s embraced. The ADM Goodwill Cup perfectly illustrates this mindset. Friends or acquaintances form a pop-up team for the day, often mixing students and young professionals from various backgrounds. The team may be temporary, but the experience and camaraderie are long-lasting. Their focus is laser-sharp: to honor the cause they represent by giving everything they have: heart, soul and stamina.
Ambitious, yet purpose-driven
Which leads me to my final reflection: young people today are ambitious, yes, but not self-centered. They crave individuality and independence, yet also care deeply about making a difference. They’re driven not only to succeed, but to be of service. Purpose and impact are core to how they define success.
Let’s continue to champion and encourage this generation to embrace entrepreneurship. Their energy is infectious. In this edition of TIP-IM, I’m giving them the floor. Their passion is inspiring and I am convinced: with this generation leading the way, we are more than ready for the challenges ahead… And we’ll face them with a smile!
