Taj Pabari, The ASE Group
At the age of just 24, Taj Pabari marks this year’s youngest finalist. As the CEO and founder of The ASE Group, Taj is dedicated to helping Australians of any age start a business or enter the workforce. The ASE Group is a community-led organisation that provides world-class entrepreneurship and employment programs – many of which are provided at no cost. With a focus on young Australians and disadvantaged sections of the population, Taj aims to have lasting impacts on individuals and communities across Queensland. Through his work at The ASE Group, Taj has led with an ethos centred around community contribution, empowering 188,859 individuals through face-to-face and online programs, with 51 percent of alumni based in regional, remote, or rural communities.

What’s your favourite hidden gem or lesser-known attraction in Queensland?
“Townsville is one of my favourite places on Earth.“

Navid Toosi Saidy, Propel Health AI
As chief executive officer and founder of Propel Health AI, Dr Navid Toosi Saidy wants to help empower the healthcare system through the power of AI. With a background in mechanical engineering and PhD from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Dr Navid fuses his knack for cutting-edge research with practical, real-world applications. In his role at Propel Health AI, he strives to define a new best practice in healthcare data management by unlocking the potential within the 1000s of TB of healthcare data. In the past 12 months, Propel Health AI secured contracts for platform deployment with a range of healthcare partners from a world-leading cancer research, education and treatment centre to a global health software provider. By enabling healthcare providers to leverage AI for better decision making, Navid is making significant strides in patient outcomes, reducing disparities in healthcare access.

What’s your favourite movie or TV show of all time, and why?
“The Hustler starring Paul Newman because I have great memories watching this movie with my grandfather and I am also a big pool/snooker fanatic.”

Bridie Schultz, Sativus
Scientist, co-founder and managing director Bridie Schultz works to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical application. After multiple years of experience in the science lab, Bridie and business partner Dr Kylie Hewson noticed that a lack of skills in project management, research design and communications resulted in too much science going unused. Through her business, Sativus, Bridie strives to ensure scientific research is managed effectively and communicated clearly so its outcomes can be maximised. Sativus works with scientific researchers to help their work thrive and make meaningful contributions to society. With recognition from prestigious institutions like the United Nations, Sativus is working to put groundbreaking discoveries within reach for all.

One rule you live by?
“Information and knowledge should be accessible to all.”

Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner
As Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb helps small businesses across Queensland to perform at their best and in the best possible operating environments. When the role was first introduced in 2022, Dominique was tasked with connecting with the small business community and creating awareness for the QSBC’s services, industry bodies, chambers and all levels of government. Since commencement, call volumes have increased by 91 percent, as Dominique and her team help to timely resolve disputes within small businesses and provide expert knowledge and resources. By working with local councils, the QSBC also develops small business strategies to support this crucial part of the Queensland economy. As a young woman in a male-dominated industry, Dominique has overcome major challenges – previously working as CEO of the National Retail Commission. Through her perseverance, Dominique believes she is now a better leader and advocate for the state’s small business community.

One rule you live your life by?
‘”I never quit trying and I never tried quitting,’ – Dolly Parton.”

Luke Furness, Clayton Utz
Joining Clayton Utz right out of university, Luke Furness has made an indelible contribution to the legacy Australian law firm. After coming out to his colleagues in the early 2010s, Luke launched Clayton Utz’s LGBTI+ alliance, where he works to promote the firm’s diversity strategies. Whilst we may tend to think of business leadership as focused on financial milestones, Luke approaches the role of a leader differently. As a celebrated member of his team, Luke’s hard work strives to make meaningful contributions to his community, working more than 200 pro bono hours last year alone on several elder abuse matters, tenancy disputes and family disputes. Beyond Clayton Utz, Luke also serves as a non-executive director of the Brisbane Powerhouse, including chair of MELT Festival and provides invaluable legal and governance oversight.

Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
“Nobody else knows what they’re doing either.“

To see the full list of this year’s 40 Under 40 winners, head here.