Shivank is an alumni of the MSc&T in Energy Environment: Science Technology and Management. He was selected for the France-India Young Talent Program - created in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the strategic bilateral relationship between France and India by the "Chambre des Commerce et d'Industrie Franco-Indienne”.
In this interview, discover more about this program, his experience and his ambitions!
Who are you ?
I am a 25-year-old Indian who always harboured a dream of studying at Ecole Polytechnique, inspired by the illustrious alumni and researchers associated with this esteemed institution. I pursued my passion for the energy industry with a bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering and continued my education with a Master of Science and Technology in STEEM at l’X.
Presently, I am working as an innovation consultant at BT2I (Business and Technology Intelligence for Innovation), a specialized organization focusing on advanced technology markets within eco-innovation, energies and defence. In this role, I leverage my academic background and insights to provide strategic guidance to clients in these dynamic sectors.
Why did you want to study in the STEEM program?
STEEM was a natural choice for me as I believe energy is a fundamental pillar in our society. The course gathered an entire overview of the future of a better energy value chain. The industry-focused and practical approach of the programme with 2 internships appealed to me with hands-on experience leading to a seamless transition into the professional world. My decision to pursue education in France was also driven by my admiration for its rich cultural heritage. The allure of French culture had always captivated my imagination, and I yearned to immerse myself in this vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.
What is the France-India Young Talents Program under 35?
In commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the strategic bilateral relationship between France and India, the "Chambre des Commerce et d'Industrie Franco-Indienne" launched an exclusive program specifically designed for young individuals from both countries. This unique initiative brought together 10 talented individuals from India and 10 from France, each hailing from diverse backgrounds ranging from entrepreneurs, international relations to journalism and science. The program aimed to foster and strengthen the bond between France and India by empowering young people to actively engage and invest in various collaborative endeavours. And eventually, give back to the community when we are in the later stages of our professional lives.
What was the program about?
This unique programme brought together 20 diverse young professionals having the commonality of being "adopted" by both countries. It offered us a remarkable opportunity to interact with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and government officials from both France and India, facilitating knowledge sharing and engaging in interactive discussions. This exceptional program was in accordance with the 25 years of strategic bilateral partnership and India becoming the most populous country in the world that week.
Over the span of three days in April, we sat in a closed room with prominent speakers. Their talks covered a range of topics, including leadership, mentorship, innovation, agriculture, economy and politics. We engaged in interlaced sessions gaining wisdom and insights about the growing collaboration between France and India, our shared values and the global problems and opportunities we must face. The Industry leaders and entrepreneurs shared their experiences and knowledge, highlighting the importance of critical thinking, creating urgency and legitimacy. And, esteemed government officials, including the Ambassador of India to France, HE Jawed Ashraf, the ex-French Minister of the Armed Forces, Madame Florence Parly and the ex-French Minister of Equality & Diversity, Madame Elisabeth Moreno, who shared their perceptions on France and India relations and the global duties to be done within our time. The leaders commended India's growth story, its vigorous negotiating skills, the potential of spirituality, and the young talent pool that both countries hold, they encouraged us to find our calling and push our best selves towards building the next world. I will never forget them answering my pertinent questions with honesty and having plausible but limited discussions.
To know more about the Program : https://www.ccifi-france.org/french-indian-young-talents
How did you feel when you knew you were selected for this program?
As a young Indian, I have always read about France and India which have both contributed significantly to the world's cultural heritage and have a rich history, in culture, art, philosophy, music, and cuisine. A shared commitment to democracy, secularism, human rights and respect for international law.
A notable difference is in their identities, India, a civilizational state, and France, a nation-state. These two distinct identities sharing similar values and global outlooks have always awed me. I was excited, proud and felt lucky to be given the chance to be part of this cohort. This France-India partnership is meant to guide and serve the world on important matters.
What did you learn from that program?
To be authentic. The program has inspired me to work towards the betterment of humanity through authenticity. Every speaker had their specific message, ranging from finding your calling, the potential of spirituality and being critical of oneself.
All in all, it was a unique experience that allowed me to connect on a lot of different subjects such as international diplomacy, common environmental problems and solutions, leadership and mentorship.
What was your best memory?
I would say meeting Mme Elisabeth Moreno – President of LEIA (Leaders Engagés et Inclusifs en Action) and former Minister Delegate for Gender Equity, Diversity and Equal Opportunities in the French government. Her ideas on manifestation and spirituality were highly motivational and inspired me to continue on my path.
The talk was also a bit emotional when she delivered her message about her life story. She emphasized making an impact and encouraged business professionals to enter the world of politics no matter how imperfect the system might be. Her session was eye-opening and really resonated with me.
What are the next steps?
Our next phase is to individually mentor less-privileged youngsters in France for the professional world and collectively interview Indian or French executives from the Top 500 companies to strengthen this partnership.
What are your ambitions?
Being impactful and creating a completely accessible world for all individuals is my main goal.
I am currently focusing on learning and improving my skill set to be able to continue working in dynamic sectors that could change lives.