On Tuesday, 5 July 2022, the INSEAD MBA class of July 2020 came together once again to mark their graduation at the Chateau de Fontainebleau – a celebration that was delayed by two years due to the pandemic.
Katrina Yavash, who was elected class valedictorian speaker, reflected on the cohort’s varied journeys taken since graduating at the height of a global health crisis, and on the power of the INSEAD network that has carried them through those difficult times and has taught three invaluable assets: courage, compassion and community.
Courage
The courage to choose one’s own path and embrace the risks that may come with taking big and bold steps such as moving countries, changing industries, or taking on new personal or family responsibilities – sometimes, all of these combined.
Compassion
The compassion to provide support, and not only celebrate successes together, but also act as each other’s career coaches, counsellors and extended family when times get tough – for taking risks and starting afresh can feel lonely.
Community
The spirit of community, evident in the compassion but also in the ‘20J reunion parties that have taken place all around the world. No matter how remote a corner of the world one may find themselves in, another member of the INSEAD family is likely to be only a moment away.
“It is our courage to take risks, our compassion for one another and the strength of our INSEAD community that will enable us to achieve whatever goals we choose to set ourselves.”
To watch Katrina's full valedictorian speech press the play button below:
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