Curiosity keeps youth relevant in all fields: Panellists at TMA conclave

TMA hosts Shaping Young Minds Programme (SYMP) 2025

Trivandrum / September 28, 2025

Thiruvananthapuram, Sept. 28: In a world disrupted by artificial intelligence (AI), digital shifts and changing industries, curiosity will keep youngsters relevant in all fields, said experts on Friday at a youth conclave here.

“Curiosity is the strongest edge for youngsters in the world of cutting-edge technologies,” the panellists said at the Shaping Young Minds Programme (SYMP) 2025, organised by Trivandrum Management Association (TMA), in association with the All India Management Association (AIMA).

SYMP 2025 brought together distinguished achievers from diverse fields to share experiences and leadership lessons with students and young professionals. The objective of the event was to provide valuable insights on self-management, career planning, and leadership to the young aspirants and professionals under the age of 30 through interactive sessions.

Noting that commitment is very important in any profession, Mr Richard Rekhy, Vice Chair, Grant Thornton Bharat, highlighted the need for reinventing oneself and stay ahead of the curve.

Mr Rekhy reminded the audience, mostly students and professionals, to rethink and redesign their approach and dig deep into their reservoir of talent.

“Besides reading books, anticipatory thinking will take you ahead. Do the right thing even when no one is watching and always stay grounded. Build your leadership from the inside out and not from titles, validation or cooperation,” he said.

According to him, resilience and flexibility are the important skills to succeed.

At the inaugural ceremony, Air Marshal IP Vipin (Retd.) said the leadership skills and professional excellence of youngsters are key aspects that would determine how they script the history of the country.

He said at a time, India’s voice increasingly matter in the world, we have a vibrant young population who would emerge as leaders of tomorrow.

“To be successful, youngsters need to read more and evolve through critical thinking and analytical thinking. He urged them to develop power of expression and invest in good friendships that’s long-lasting,” Air Marshal IP Vipin (Retd.) added.

On the occasion, Shri Madhav Sharma, Director, AIMA, said SYMP is about the human story of resilience and imagination.

Each edition of the event is to inspire and equip next generation of managers and leaders.

Around one lakh students and professionals have attended the programme across India over the years,” he pointed out.

Shri G. Unnikrishnan, President, TMA, in his welcome address, said the event sets the stage for youngsters to learn and inspire, besides understanding how to become a truly young leader.

Narrating his experience, Mr. Sudhanshu Mani, creator of Vande Bharat Express and former GM, ICF Chennai, urged budding professionals and students to learn how to enhance their work to leave an impact by sustaining the ‘love’ for organisation and profession.

In another riveting session, former Indian diplomat Dr. Deepak Vohra delineated the achievements of the nation and its emergence as a ‘super power.’

Highlighting that human capital and educated young minds are the greatest strengths, Dr Vohra said India boasts of burgeoning hi-tech startups and making more locomotives in one year than US and China combined.

Mr. Jayant Krishna, former CEO, UK India Business Council, and Founding CEO, National Skill Development Corporation urged the youth to see opportunities in challenging circumstances.

Around 1000 delegates including invited guests, students and young professionals attended the day-long session. Eminent achievers from various fields, including Dr Jayasankar Prasad C, Director, Centre for Management Development, Kerala and Wg. Cdr. Ragashree D Nair (Retd), Co-Chairperson & Group CEO, Medicaid Ethos, Dr Veni Nair, Director DCSMATS and Dr Madhava C Kurup, Associate Professor ASB chaired various sessions of the event.

By hosting SYMP 2025, TMA reinforces its commitment to bridging the gap between young talent and the lived real-world leadership experiences, creating a platform for the youth of Kerala to learn directly from national leaders and achievers.

Shri Unnikrishnan Gopinath, Secretary, TMA proposed  vote of thanks.

Since its inception 40 years ago, TMA has been at the forefront of nurturing managerial and leadership talent in Kerala.

Ends