Mrs. Sasamon Sanguansin, EO Thailand's Chairperson, said, "This is the first time that Thailand is honored to be the host of Global Leadership Conference. In the past, the event was organized in America and Europe. We are very glad that this time the event attracts the most participant in EO's 30-year history as we welcomed over 1,500 attendants. One reason is that Thailand is a major business hub in Southeast Asia, a region that may people are interested in. In addition, many world-renowned speakers across industries also joined us to share their insights and experience as well as discuss all aspects of business operations. This fits well with EO Thailand's "Thirst for Learning" key concept which encourages entrepreneurs to embrace life-long learning. This is why Forbes says this is a "not to be missed" event for entrepreneurs.
This year one of the most popular topics receiving great attention from attending entrepreneurs is "Unleash You Family Business DNA: From Entrepreneur to Familypreneur and Continuing Your Legacy from Generation to Generation" by Mr. Reg Athwal, Chairman of RWA Group & TAO Inc Family Office, a world's leader in business consultant specialized in family business. Mr. Athwal noted that only 3% of family businesses can successfully pass on their business to the 4th generation in their family amidst lots of business challenges. Mr. Athwal noted that it was important for family business to adjust their business structure to better address the changing environment, to offer appropriate and fair remuneration for family members and employees and to have clear, open and effective internal communication.
Another session winning a lot of attention is "Work Life Balance" which has become a great struggle for entrepreneurs. Mr. Anand Chulani, the owner of Peak Performance Pyramid, told the audience that entrepreneurs have to practice effective time management, respect work and family time. Spending more time on work would create lots of stress and would finally affect family. Sometime, they have to "shut down" appropriately to maintain work-life balance.
At the conference, more than 100 Thai entrepreneurs met and establish good network with over 1,500 entrepreneurs from other countries. They come from across all businesses, ranging from consumer goods, finance and insurance, garment and textile, automobile, petrochemical and chemicals, packaging, property and construction, mining, energy and infrastructure, agriculture, food and beverage, heavy industry and services. The participants had a good chance to exchange experience and build good relationship in order to promote balance of the four key areas – family, personal life, business and social contribution.
"When looking at how this event contributes to Thailand, we are proud that it generates at least 300 million baht to the country, including expenses in event organizing, speakers' fee, travel and transport, venue and accommodation. Other part of the income generated indirectly from this event is personal expenses that the participants and family members spent on shopping and visiting places. In addition to monetary terms, this event opens great opportunity for entrepreneurs from worldwide to explore and experience the charming Thai culture," said Sasamon.