Explore the world to explore yourself: ESE Florence students at the Stefano Ricci Symposium

To study in Florence is to be surrounded by history, but at the European School of Economics (ESE), it also means being at the center of the contemporary conversation. On 18 November, our Florence campus students stepped into the breathtaking Salone dei Cinquecento at Palazzo Vecchio for the International Explorer Symposium.

Held under the patronage of the City of Florence and expertly organised by Once Extraordinary Events, this gathering wasn’t just a conference; it was a masterclass in vision, resilience, and storytelling—core pillars of the leadership training at our private university.

A Gathering of Visionaries

Opened by Sara Funaro, Mayor of Florence, and presented by the renowned TV host Licia Colò, the symposium brought together the giants of modern exploration. For students of a business school, seeing these figures in person is a lesson in how passion translates into global impact.

The stage hosted representatives from the National Geographic Society, The Explorers Club, and Exploration Ventures, alongside legends such as:

• Zahi Hawass, the world-famous archaeologist.
• Steve McCurry and Massimo Sestini, masters of international photography.
• Alexander G. Moen (National Geographic) and Milbry Polk (The Explorers Club).

Participants were treated to breathtaking visuals of nature and engaged in crucial dialogues on climate change, sustainability, and intercultural dialogue.

A Message Aligned with ESE Values

The symposium’s slogan ‘Explore the world to explore ourselves’ could not be more aligned with the ESE philosophy. Whether pursuing a British degree in Business or a Short Course, our students are taught that true leadership begins with self-discovery.

This event reinforced ESE’s commitment to personal development and global perspectives. It reminded our students that to be a leader in business, fashion, or politics, one must possess the spirit of an explorer: curious, brave, and conscious of the world around them.

ESE’s Contribution: Students on the Main Stage

At ESE, students are never passive spectators. We are proud to share that Lorenzo Bacci, a third-year BSc in Business Administration student, represented the school on this prestigious stage.

Invited to prepare a question for Filippo Ricci, Creative Director of the luxury lifestyle brand Stefano Ricci, Lorenzo addressed the full audience in the Salone dei Cinquecento with poise and professionalism. It was a tangible demonstration of how our British degree programmes prepare students to interact confidently with industry titans.

A Unique Opportunity for Growth

The International Explorer Symposium offered ESE Florence students a rare opportunity to connect with global leaders in exploration, science, and visual communication. It was an inspiring experience that encouraged reflection on the global challenges shaping our future.

This is the ESE difference: providing access to the people and places that matter, turning the city of Florence into an extension of the classroom.