International conference on The Rise of Gen Entrepreneurs

The International Conference on “The Rise of Gen Z Entrepreneurs: New Mindsets and New Business Models”, organized by Conspi Academy of Management Studies (CAMS), Thiruvananthapuram, was inaugurated by Ms. R. Sreelekha (Retd.) IPS, former Director General of Police, Fire and Rescue Services, Kerala, whose presence and inaugural address set an inspiring tone for the event.

Held on February 13, 2026, at Mount Carmel Convention Centre, Cotton Hill, the conference brought together a distinguished gathering of academicians, industry experts, researchers, and students, creating a vibrant platform for intellectual exchange and forward-looking discussions on entrepreneurship in the Gen Z era.

The event was guided by the leadership of Dr. Deepu Jayachandran Nair, Director, as Chief Patron, with Dr. Venugopal C. K., Dean, serving as Conference Chair. The academic coordination was further strengthened by Dr. Sruthi Vijayakrishnan, Associate Professor, and Dr. Deepa M. J., Associate Professor, as Conference Co-Chairs. The conference was efficiently convened by Mr. Gokul G. Nair, Assistant Professor; Mr. Vishakh Krishnan, Assistant Professor; Mrs. Reshma V., Assistant Professor; and Mr. Anil Gomez, Assistant Professor.

The conference featured impactful keynote and invited talks by eminent personalities. Mr. R. Ranjit Karthikeyan, Chartered Accountant and Partner at Ranjit Karthikeyan Associates LLP, shared valuable industry insights. Dr. Dinesh Elango, Associate Dean and Professor at the American University of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, delivered a thought-provoking session on “AI First Mindset of Gen Z”. Dr. Joby Jose, Director & Professor at Ilahia College of Engineering and Technology, addressed “Gen Z Expectations and HR Challenges”. Dr. Bini Marin V., Dean (Academics) and School of Entrepreneurship at Joy University, Tirunelveli, presented an engaging talk on “Born Digital: Gen Z Entrepreneurs as Early Adopters in the Modern Business Era.”

The sessions were chaired by distinguished academicians and industry professionals, including Dr. R. Vasanthagopal, Senior Professor and Head of the Institute of Management in Kerala, University of Kerala; Er. Shibi K. S., Managing Director, PPK Groups, Marthandam; Mr. Abhilash Vijayakumar, Founder of Art Station Creative Studio; Dr. T. Babu Rajendra Prasad, Assistant Professor, Government Arts & Science College, Kanyakumari; Mr. Sajeev Mohan, Faculty Member, Department of Physics, Government College Kariavattom; and Mr. Gouri Shankar, Founder of Split Squad Fitness Studio.

The conference featured thematic sessions across Human Resources, Marketing, Operations, and Information Technology, offering a multidisciplinary platform for meaningful knowledge sharing. High-quality research paper presentations and discussions reflected emerging trends such as AI-driven entrepreneurship, digital transformation, Gen Z consumer behaviour, and sustainable business practices.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the conference was the enthusiastic participation of students. Their active engagement in presentations and discussions demonstrated strong academic insight and innovative thinking. The event provided them with a clear sense of direction and a futuristic outlook towards entrepreneurship.

Overall, the conference was a resounding success, reinforcing CAMS’ commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and industry relevance. It served as a meaningful platform for collaboration and learning, leaving participants motivated to explore new opportunities in the rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape.