As I gear up for my journey from London to Dijon, France, for the Burgundy School of Business Summer School from June 23 to 27, 2025, I can’t help but think about the environmental responsibility that comes with international travel. Traveling sustainably isn’t just a choice for me. It’s a necessity, deeply rooted in my values and my enthusiasm for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Choosing to travel by train rather than flying was an easy decision. Not only does this significantly reduce my carbon footprint, aligning perfectly with SDG 13: Climate Action, but it also allows me to genuinely experience the cultural and natural landscapes between the UK and France. This choice transforms a journey typically seen as a mere transition into a meaningful adventure, resonating deeply with my personal commitment to the environment.
Dijon itself is inspiring because of its progressive stance on sustainability. Known for its dedication to preserving cultural heritage and promoting eco-friendly urban development, Dijon offers a tangible glimpse into what sustainable cities of the future might look like, aligning with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. While there, I plan to use the city’s efficient public transportation system, cycle, and walk, immersing myself fully in the local culture while minimizing my environmental impact.
The course I’ll be attending, “Authentic Leadership & Design Thinking,” directly supports several SDGs, notably SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. What genuinely excites me about this course is its innovative approach to leadership. It goes beyond traditional methods, encouraging empathy, authenticity, and sustainable innovation. These are skills essential for addressing today’s complex global challenges. Through hands-on activities and real-world business missions, I’ll learn how to craft creative, sustainable solutions, which directly contributes to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
My commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at travel or education. At home, I’ve already embraced reducing single-use plastics, actively supporting eco-conscious businesses, and participating in local sustainability initiatives. During my summer school experience, I will share insights and strategies I’ve learned by blogging and engaging on social media platforms, amplifying sustainable practices to my peers and beyond. This aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, fostering broader collaboration and global awareness.
Furthermore, I aim to participate actively in community-driven sustainability projects in Dijon, such as local clean-up activities and sustainability workshops. Such participation not only enhances my understanding but also enables me to give back meaningfully to the community hosting me.
Ultimately, this scholarship represents more than financial assistance. It is an affirmation of my journey towards becoming a responsible global citizen who actively champions sustainability. By blending my personal actions with educational experiences, I aim to inspire positive change both locally and internationally. My upcoming summer school in Dijon is not just about personal growth. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate genuine commitment to the environment and contribute meaningfully towards achieving a more sustainable future.
