It was a morning like any other, running in-between lectures and deadlines, when I received a message that would change everything. "Opportunity to assist Bloomberg team at the World Economic Forum in Davos." Davos? The World Economic Forum? It felt like a universe away from my student life at AUS. Fast forward a few weeks, and there I was, in the snowy streets of Davos, completely out of my depth and with no idea what I was getting myself into. Little did I know, this unexpected journey would be a life-changing experience.
My first impressions were overcome by the biting cold (I'd never experienced temperatures that low in my entire life!) I was thrown into the deep end, working alongside my team to register guests and connect them with important figures from Bloomberg UK. The pace was relentless, with a constant stream of events and invitees to manage, making 4 days feel like a lifetime. Despite the chaos, I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the World Economic Forum.
Then, something happened that would forever change my perspective. In the backstage area, I spotted Bill Gates, one of the most influential figures of all time. A simple eye contact and a brief "hello" from him was enough to make me understand the reality that I was in. It was a reminder that anything is possible, that dreams can be achieved, and that even a student like me could have a seat at the table. That subtle interaction with Bill Gates left a lasting impression, making me realize the potential for impact that we all possess. It sparked something in me, a desire to learn more, contribute more, and engage with the world on a larger scale. So, when the opportunity came to return to Davos this year, I didn’t hesitate.
This time around, I felt more prepared, more confident. I knew what to expect, and I was ready to soak it all in.
Even though I was working behind the scenes, my second Davos experience provided incredible insights into the inner workings of a global event like the WEF. I witnessed firsthand the detailed planning and coordination required to bring together world leaders, CEOs, and experts from across the globe. Beyond the networking and social aspects, Davos offered a unique opportunity to learn about critical global issues, and I found myself increasingly drawn to understanding these challenges and exploring potential solutions.
While the World Economic Forum covers a wide range of topics, one theme that particularly caught my attention was the intersection of agriculture and technology. Given the significance of agriculture in my home country, Albania, this topic held a special relevance for me. It was fascinating to learn how advancements like AI, data analysis, and precision farming are being used to improve efficiency, increase yields, and promote sustainable practices. One session that stood out was a discussion on the future of food, where experts highlighted the potential of technology to address food security challenges and create a more resilient agricultural sector. This is the beauty of the WEF, it provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, allowing everyone to find their niche interests and gain valuable insights from experts in their field.
My experiences in Davos have been transformative, to say the least. They have challenged my assumptions and created a passion for global engagement that I didn’t think I had in me. I’ve learned the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing new challenges, and seeking out opportunities for growth. Most importantly, the WEF has instilled in me a belief that I can make a difference, no matter how small. It has empowered me to pursue my goals with renewed purpose and to contribute to creating a better world. Even though the 2025 World Economic Forum is over, the conversation doesn’t have to end. I encourage every student to explore the information and insights available online. All the sessions are recorded and published and they offer a unique opportunity to learn more from global leaders, experts, and changemakers. Be proactive and stay curious!