On May 24th and 25th, 2025, ESSEC Business School held its traditional Commencement Day at the Philharmonie de Paris, a major venue for music and culture. More than a graduation ceremony, the event marked a time of transition and inspiration for graduates, a moment to close one chapter and open new ones. In today’s dissonant world, this year’s event encouraged boldness, commitment, and cooperation as ways of building harmony.
Studying at ESSEC means more than joining a top business school. It’s about becoming part of a global network. It’s about exploring new continents, ideas, and ambitions
They show boldness, drive, and the will to make a difference. For Commencement Day 2025, we highlight four inspiring journeys: Julie Nauthonier, a conductor who empowers women through music. Samir Benkirane, a tireless builder of bridges and projects. Samy Boudiaf, a young film producer already noticed in Cannes. Cédric Carrasso, a former soccer goalkeeper who now shapes women’s sports. Four graduates. Four bold stories. One shared goal: to change the world in their own way.
Samy Boudiaf achieves his dream in the cinema industry thanks to the flexibility of the Master in Management program. At 22, he produces a feature film with Monica Bellucci. A bold journey shaped by passion !
Grande École - Master in Management | 2023
How does Julie Nauthonier, at 22, go from the Grande Ecole program to leading an 80-musician orchestra? Discover her unique journey and her FENIX project, combining music and female empowerment!
Grande École - Master in Management | 2024
From Turkish champion to ESSEC graduate, Cédric Carrasso is on a mission to reshape women’s football. An inspiring journey from locker room to classroom, his next big match is off the field.
Executive Education - General Management | 2023
Tireless student leader, Samir Benkirane left his mark on ESSEC through energy, commitment, and a deep sense of community. From Morocco to Singapore, London to Cergy, he’s building a purpose-driven path—with one goal in mind: to serve in order to make change.
BBA | 2024
Originally from China, Zhelin Yu has always been driven by academic excellence and a strong sense of responsibility. At ESSEC, he transitions from finance to impact analysis. A commitment to more ethical and sustainable finance!
Master’s Business , Strategy & Management of International Business (SMIB) | 2024
From Beijing to Dubai via Singapore and Paris, Soraya navigates cultures and ambitions. An ESSEC graduate on a mission to grow and give back to the global network.
Master in Strategy & Management in International Business (SMIB) | 2024
A polyglot, globe-trotter, and human connection enthusiast, Tasina carved an inspiring path from Rabat to Rome to Berlin. Discover how she made ESSEC her “home.”
Global BBA | 2024
From China to Paris via Singapore and the US, Ruqi Xu explores both the world and herself. A journey of impact and meaning, shaped by strategy, sustainability, and defining encounters.
Master’s Business , Strategy & Management of International Business (SMIB) | 2024
