The next corporate revolution is happening in Asia. According to the Economist, “the continent’s share of global GDP has risen from a 5th to 28% since 1984. It is the world’s factory, a diverse region of rivals bound together by supply chains.” In this article from May, they go on to say that despite having incredible muscle as a world production leader, the continent still punches below its weight by holding only a 10th of the world’s leading brands and venture-capital activity.

Perhaps a parallel can be drawn between the potential of the region and that of young Asian American professionals. From displaying outstanding academic achievements to successfully securing jobs at the world’s leading companies, the impression for the passerby is that these youngsters have the world at their feet. But a closer look tells us there seems to be a significant barrier when it comes to the high-achieving young Asian and positions at the very highest levels in the U.S.

I’m talking here about a parallel of potential: Asia still punches below its weight in terms of worldwide brands despite its incredible production power, and despite achieving such consistent success academically there is a disproportionately low rate of Asian Americans taking on significant leadership roles.

Of course, it is important to point out that brand growth in Asia has been proportionately large since the mid-80s, and whose rise shows no signs of slowing down. It seems only a matter of time before Asia will not only be the ‘world’s factory’ but also the producer of the most well known brands. But can the same be said of Asian American professionals in leadership roles?

At naisA Global, we’re dedicated to helping young professionals overcome this final barrier and preparing the next generation of global leaders to grow along with this exciting and emerging landscape.

Organizations worldwide are focused on developing and recruiting leaders that will drive their business forward in a truly global economy. That means they are actively looking for talent who can adapt and relate to other cultures. Doesn’t it stand to reason—if we cross the two lines of the parallel—that Asian American leaders would be a highly sought after asset as the West and East continue to merge as one wholly global marketplace?