IÉS! #22 - Destination Oceania

It was 21 years ago, almost to the day when I was getting off a plane, with a backpack, to see the vastness of Australia opening up before me. I was 20 years old, with a thirst for knowledge, but also slightly dizzy in the face of the unknown. This year abroad was a decisive one as it opened new horizons, piqued my curiosity about the world and left a thirst for discovery firmly ingrained in me.

Oceania continues to inspire people today, with its wide open spaces, ancient culture, and unspoiled natural landscapes, but it remains on the front line of climate change, with rising sea levels around the Pacific islands, devastating fires in Australia and the fragility of New Zealand's ecosystems, etc. This fascinating continent is both a sentinel and a laboratory, as Australia in particular establishes itself as fertile ground for cleantech, foodtech, and impact businesses.

Whether they are exploring, setting up businesses, protecting the environment or passing on learning: the people in this issue demonstrate the diversity of our alumni’s career paths and the breadth of their  commitment. They might be working to protect endangered species, starting a business in Australia, or building bridges between education systems - they each embody an approach to experiencing the world in a different way. And they are spreading IÉSEG's values beyond our borders.

This issue is truly an invitation to take flight. To look beyond familiar landmarks and discover, understand, and draw inspiration from those who live, work and innovate on the other side of the world. The IÉSEG community knows no bounds: it is growing, developing and getting involved wherever the challenges are greatest, and its horizons are wide open.

Thibaut Ringô (Grande École 2007)
IÉSEG Network President