https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanasak-wahawisan-8a05145b/

NATIONWIDE - NOVEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) The bright afternoon sun casts its rays across the verdant landscape of northern Thailand, where the lush green forests are being restored by volunteers and young people. Among them is Tanasak Wahawisan, the founder of Watiwisan Foundation, whose lifelong mission is to nurture young leaders, restore nature, and build sustainable communities. His story isn't just one of business success, it’s one of transformation, driven by the power of purpose and a belief that leadership should serve people, the planet, and future generations.

Tanasak’s journey began in the corporate world, where he built a successful career in economics, finance, and leadership development. He quickly rose to a position of influence, gaining recognition as a leader who could shape organizations from the inside out. But as he climbed the ranks of corporate life, something was missing. Despite professional success, he felt a deep, unshakable pull toward something bigger, a purpose that went beyond the bottom line.

The turning point came when Tanasak decided to shift his focus from profit-driven leadership to a more holistic approach to leadership. He took the bold step of founding Watiwisan Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at empowering the next generation of leaders through education, environmental stewardship, and community building. Through this foundation, Tanasak’s vision began to unfold: a world where leaders are not defined by titles but by their positive impact on society and the environment.

The Birth of Watiwisan Foundation: A Lifelong Dream

Tanasak’s decision to launch Watiwisan Foundation was driven by his belief that the future of Thailand, indeed, the future of the world, rests on the shoulders of conscious, compassionate leaders. For over 40 years, he had worked in leadership roles, advising executives and mentoring individuals to reach their full potential. However, he knew that true leadership needed to be rooted in social responsibility and environmental care, especially as the planet faced mounting challenges.

Watiwisan Foundation became the vehicle for Tanasak to merge his expertise in business with his passion for environmental and social impact. The foundation’s mission is to promote youth empowerment, environmental restoration, and the development of sustainable communities. With projects such as tree-planting initiatives, youth scholarships, and community learning spaces, the foundation seeks to inspire young people to lead with integrity and compassion.

“Our nation grows when its young people grow, protect them, guide them, and give them a planet worth inheriting,” says Tanasak, a quote that has become the guiding principle behind his work. These words are not merely aspirational but reflect the foundation’s tangible impact on the ground, where Tanasak and his team work tirelessly to create a better world for the next generation.

The Breakthrough: Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize

In 2025, Tanasak's work was recognized globally when he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by the World Harmony Foundation, an organization aligned with the United Nations Environment Programme. This recognition was not just a personal honor, but a testament to the profound impact that Watiwisan Foundation has had on both youth and the environment in Thailand.

Unlike many traditional business leaders who focus solely on financial success, Tanasak has always viewed leadership as a platform to uplift others. His work goes beyond the conventional notion of corporate responsibility, incorporating Eastern philosophies such as Samurai discipline, Zen clarity, and Buddhist compassion into his leadership approach. These teachings provide a unique lens through which he views the world, and they have become integral to both his personal life and his work with the foundation.

In fact, Tanasak's ability to blend Eastern wisdom with Western leadership practices sets him apart from many of his peers. He does not view business success as an end in itself; rather, he believes it is a tool to serve a greater purpose, whether through environmental initiatives, educational programs, or community-based projects. This unique approach is what makes him stand out in a crowded field of corporate leaders.

The Road Ahead: Building a Legacy of Conscious Leadership

Looking forward, Tanasak is not resting on his laurels. Instead, he continues to pour his energy into the work that drives him, creating conscious leaders who are committed to the betterment of society and the planet. He believes that leadership is not about achieving personal gain or recognition, but about the positive change one can create in the world. For him, success is measured by the lives impacted, the communities built, and the ecosystems restored.

As Watiwisan Foundation expands its reach, Tanasak is focused on increasing its visibility and influence, ensuring that its message of conscious leadership spreads across Thailand and beyond. Through books, workshops, and social-impact projects, he aims to continue his mission of inspiring others to lead with heart, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Leadership That Inspires Action

Tanasak’s story is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. His journey from the boardroom to the forests of Thailand shows that leadership is not just about managing people or driving profits, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change. Whether through his environmental restoration projects, his youth empowerment initiatives, or his vision of a more mindful, resilient world, Tanasak’s work continues to inspire people to act with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to sustainability.

If you’re inspired by Tanasak’s vision of conscious leadership and want to learn more about his work, visit Dr. Tanasak’s LinkedIn and explore the transformative projects that are shaping the future of Thailand. There’s no better time to get involved and make a difference. Start today by investing in the leaders of tomorrow and a better world for all.