As President of SM Supermalls, Steven Tan has exhibited leadership values which go far beyond the boundaries of the retail sector that he is most comfortable and adept with. Fueled by his passion to promote positive social change and global peace, Mr. Tan has supported the Global Youth Summit for over six years now; working as the primary force behind the platform, offering partnership venues and logistical assistance for its annual execution.

The milestones achieved by the Global Youth Summit are considerable, with Mr. Tan's commitment helping them amass the following notable records - 586,500 engaged youth, 950 schools reached, and presence in 62 countries. Mr. Tan empowers the next generation by fostering dialogue and understanding, and by creating positive global change through service.

SM Cares and the Global Peace Foundation's 2023 Global Youth Summit last August 11, 2023, at SM Mall of Asia unites thousands of students and youth leaders nationwide to address societal concerns linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This was duly recognized by the Global Peace Foundation during their Global Peace Awards held last December 14. Mr. Tan was bestowed the Award for Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship. This award recognizes leadership that has demonstrated significant commitment to peace-building initiatives through funding and partnership engagement, that strives to improve and enhance the quality of life for all.

SM Supermalls' Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, Global Peace Foundation International President James Flynn, and SM Supermalls' President Steven Tan

Global Peace Foundation Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon

(L-R): Global Peace Foundation Vice President for Education Tony Devine, event host Fahly Handa, SM Supermalls' Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, SM Supermalls' President Steven Tan, Global Peace Foundation Philippines President Aldrin Nituma, Global Peace Foundation Asia Pacific Regional President Ingill Ra, and True World Group Chief Executive Officer Alex Choi

The Global Peace Awards' other categories include Legacy of Service and Peace, Interfaith and Spiritual Leadership, Freedom of Religion and Conscience, Strengthening Families, Outstanding Service, Innovative Scholarship, Moral and Innovative Leadership, and Culture of Peace.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Tan spoke of how, "I only stand here tonight as a representative of SM Cares and the many incredible individuals as well as our partners, who work tirelessly for a more inclusive and empowered world. A better world."

SM Supermalls' President Steven Tan (4th from the left), with (L-R): Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, Vice President for Human Resources Cheryll Agsaoay, SM Cares Assistant Vice President Richard Caluyo, and Group Marketing Manager Angela Wieneke. Also present is SM Supermalls' Commercial Area Manager, Jerizza Nery (2nd from the right).

"SM Supermalls' commitment to developing the youth through SM Cares has been a journey filled with purpose and passion. The collaborations we've had with esteemed organizations like the Global Peace Foundation, United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the National Youth Commission, and many others show the power of unity in creating a better world for tomorrow."

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Philippines launch the Inclusive Child-Centered Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (ICDRRM) project, along with Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, at SM City Telabastagan in Pampanga last November 30, 2023. 

The Global Peace Awards were first conferred in 2011 at the Global Peace Convention in Seoul, South Korea. They were established to honor government, civil society, faith leaders, and organizations whose exemplary efforts have substantially advanced the vision and mission of building a world of peace and shared prosperity. 

It's a distinct honor for Mr. Tan, SM Supermalls, and SM Cares to have their tireless and sustained efforts duly recognized. It serves as inspiration to stay the course, work harder in the name of peace and shared prosperity, and to believe.