Two young Vietnamese talents, a diplomat and an architect, have recently been selected as Young Global Leaders, an annual title conferred by the World Economic Forum.

Prize-winning architect Vo Trong Nghia and Vietnam’s Ambassador to Italy Nguyen Hoang Long were recently given the honor.

Nghia pocketed 11 international architecture awards of various categories in 2012.

He was named ‘the vanguard designer’ by the U.S. Architectural Record, as well as one of the top 21 architects of the 21st century by World Architecture News for his unique work with bamboo, including Eco-resort Pavilion in Vietnam and Hill Restaurant in Mexico.

Meanwhile, Long has made notable contributions to the forging and development of Vietnam’s diplomatic ties with Italy.

More than 2,000 candidates applied for the title this year. 214 individuals from 66 countries, including 109 women, were given the title.

East Asia boasted 49 titleholders, the highest number this year.

All of the titleholders are under 40 years old and have made remarkable achievements and contributions in their areas.

They have also demonstrated their commitment to serving society.

The newly named global leaders will join the Forum of Young Global Leaders, a key part of the World Economic Forum.

Set up as an independent, not-for-profit foundation under the Swiss government, the Forum of Young Global Leaders, also part of the larger New Champions community, has featured more than 900 exceptional young leaders so far.

These entrepreneurial individuals have committed both their time and talent to improve the world.