I vividly recall my first day at the Graduate Institute in 2007, meeting classmates at Villa Barton with its stunning views of Lake Geneva. Those first, intellectually stimulating discussions are cherished memories that set the tone for my studies. The Institute’s world-class academics and the practical experiences available in International Geneva laid a solid foundation for my career. As a student, I served as a fellow at UNESCO’s International Bureau of Education and worked with Soroptimist International of Europe. These experiences anchored my future work in development and humanitarian programmes. I gained invaluable grassroots experience collaborating with organisations. Additionally, I participated in UN meetings and advocacy, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals Dialogue at Rio+20 in 2012.

After years in development and humanitarian work, I transitioned to a specialised leadership and organisational learning firm. There, I developed leadership journeys for executives, deepening my understanding of leadership. This experience prepared me for my next major role at Plan International Switzerland, where I became CEO in 2018 at the age of 35. In 2020, I took the helm at Drosos Foundation, a philanthropic organisation active in Europe and the MENA region. Assuming this role ten years after the Arab Spring in such a volatile region involved guiding the organisation through a significant transformation. Currently, we are working on the next five-year strategy for Drosos, and I am immensely proud of our team’s work and our partners’ contributions, which focus on addressing critical issues for young people, communities, and organisations in the region.

An additional honour for me has been joining the Assembly of the ICRC, where I am now entering my second term. Serving in this unique and meaningful organisation allows me to contribute to its governance and mission in a profound way.

The Graduate Institute was instrumental in shaping my career, equipping me with analytical tools, a global perspective, and critical thinking skills. These were honed by excellent professors and challenging experiences that helped me navigate complex international issues and understand the volatile nature of global affairs. The Institute also emphasised empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of listening and understanding diverse contexts – skills that have been invaluable in my leadership roles and were fostered early on during my time at the Institute. Even 15 years after graduation, I would still choose the Institute for my graduate studies.

I joined the Alumnae ·i Association Committee out of gratitude and a desire to give back to the community that has been pivotal in my career. The Institute provided me with an excellent education and a network of inspiring peers and mentors. By serving on the committee, I aim to contribute to a strong, engaged alumnae ·i network that upholds the Institute’s values and supports the next generation of global leaders.

This article was published in Globe #34, the Graduate Institute Review.