At the 2025 Beijing Forum, Yifu Lin, former vice-president of the World Bank and dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics at Peking University, shared critical insights on how the younger generation can effectively navigate the burgeoning competition driven by artificial intelligence (AI). Lin emphasized the transformative impact of AI across various sectors, urging young professionals to adapt by acquiring interdisciplinary skills and fostering a mindset of continuous learning. He highlighted the importance of understanding AI’s capabilities and limitations, advocating for a balanced approach that integrates human creativity with technological advancements. Lin also stressed the need for ethical considerations in AI development, ensuring that its deployment benefits society as a whole. His recommendations come at a pivotal time when AI is reshaping industries, creating both opportunities and challenges for the workforce. The forum served as a platform for thought leaders to discuss strategies for leveraging AI to drive innovation while mitigating potential risks.