Established by the Asia Society with lead corporate sponsorship from Merrill Lynch, the Asia 21 Young Leaders program brings together 24 of the most dynamic emerging leaders under the age of forty from across the U.S. and Asia-Pacific region to develop shared, innovative approaches to addressing the challenges and responsibilities of global citizenship.

Malini, the only woman, joined three other awardees from India this year - Niret Alva, Shaffi Mather and Lobsang Sangay. Last year’s recipient from the country was NDTV Managing Editor, Barkha Dutt.

In its press release, the Asia Society’s President, Vishakha N. Desai said: "In the face of a rapidly changing world whose focus is unquestionably tilting toward Asia, the Asia 21 Young Leaders program is one more way in which Asia Society is playing a role in creating unique forums where collaboration, exchange and better understanding can help address a range of challenges."

The recognition comes on the heels of Malini’s selection in 2006 as a Principle Voice on CNN’s initiative of the same name, and her features in TIME and Fortune magazines addressing corporate social responsibility and emerging markets.

From 2005-2006, Malini served in the UK government leading on international sustainable development partnerships, and pioneering a new initiative with emerging markets including India, China, Brazil, South Africa and Mexico.

Prior to this Malini was an adviser to Kofi Annan as a member of his High-Level Panel of Eminent Persons on UN-Civil Society Relations chaired by President Cardoso of Brazil.

Malini’s other Fellowships include the Royal Society of Arts, Commerce and Manufactures; the Remarque Foundation; the British American Project and the Young Evian Group. She currently serves on the advisory boards of almost a dozen public and private institutions including global companies such as Unilever and BHP Billiton.

For more information on the Asia Society or the Asia 21 Young Leaders program please visit: http://www.asiasociety.org