Karina Velloso-Rodrigues

What is a fun fact or something unexpected about you? 

As a child growing up in Brazil, one of my favourite songs was the French tune 'Voyage, Voyage.' Little did I know that life has a way of creating unexpected adventures from our childhood memories! 

Years later, after initially relocating to France to pursue my engineering studies, I found myself embarking on a journey that led me to fully embrace French culture as my own, living out the "voyages" of that very song.

Tell us about yourself, and how you got to where you are today both on a professional and personal level.

After initially hesitating to pursue education in International Relations, my curiosity for understanding how things work led me to pursue a path in electrical engineering, culminating in a Ph.D. focused on innovation management. This choice not only satisfied my desire for international exposure but also paved the way for a fulfilling career so far.

Throughout my professional journey, I've had the privilege of working in diverse roles across industries. It was during these experiences that I recognised the potential for impact beyond a purely technical career path. 

Collaborating closely with commercial, operational, and R&D teams, I gained an appreciation that venturing into the business world would empower me to make even more meaningful changes.

In my current role within the decarbonisation of the steel industry, I am confronted with significant challenges, particularly addressing the capital-intensive nature of steel transformation and the increasing demand for renewable energy and hydrogen.

Beyond my professional activities, I am a devoted parent to my two wonderful children and I love traveling and exploring different cuisines together with my family and friends.

What led you to decide to pursue an EMBA, and why did you choose INSEAD in particular?

My decision to pursue an EMBA was driven by a desire to further refine my leadership capabilities, drive sustainable business practices, and assume influential roles in guiding organisations toward a more sustainable future. 

I chose INSEAD for its reputation and diverse student body, and what particularly appealed to me was INSEAD's firm commitment to responsible business practices. This closely align with my own aspirations of being a “force for good”. 

A notable example of the dynamic INSEAD environment is the organisation of the “Brazil Climate Summit”: just one month after I joined INSEAD, a group of Brazilian MBAs and GEMBAs, supported by INSEAD professors, came together to collaborate on organising this high-profile conference.

Describe your experience so far: The classes, the curriculum, your fellow participants, the professors.

My experience at INSEAD has been truly positive. The classes are both thought-provoking and engaging, covering a diverse range of topics from leadership, finance, strategy to business and society. 

What sets INSEAD apart is its exceptionally diverse cohorts, consisting of talented professionals from around the globe. 

Interacting with the participants has been incredibly enriching, offering me insights and fresh viewpoints that I wouldn't have had otherwise. The professors are excellent, with a wealth of knowledge and experience that they bring to the classroom, encouraging an environment of intellectual curiosity and collaboration. 

INSEAD is also a dynamic community, with an extensive network of alumni and industry connections, and where we can forge friendships that will last a lifetime.

What advice would you give to someone who might be interested in pursuing an INSEAD programme?

Embrace the journey! It's an experience that will not only enrich your knowledge but also strengthen your character, boost your confidence, and equip you to make a meaningful impact in the world. 

Keep in mind that the INSEAD programme is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's a transformative journey that will shape you into a more effective leader and global citizen.