Steve Jobs believed that “you always had to be a little different to buy an Apple computer.” This thought of Steve Jobs inspired Apple’s “Think Different” advertising campaign, which featured geniuses whose out-of-the-box ideas changed the world. When we think of the essence of thought leadership, the “think different” approach comes to mind.

Thought leadership allows leaders to express their ideas that demonstrate their expertise in a particular field, area, or topic. Although many leaders strive to become thought leaders in their respective fields, those who have dedication, strategic vision, education, and strategy as their strengths succeed. They are the thinking beings whose ideas affect the thought patterns and actions of others.

This edition of The CEO Views honors the contributions and achievements of such thought leaders whose ideas and knowledge redefined businesses across diverse fields. The ‘Thought Leadership Award 2026’ is awarded to such exemplary thought leaders.