Induction events promoted connection, D&I and community

ESCP Berlin launched the new academic year with an energising series of well-being events and D&I-driven initiatives, welcoming a diverse cohort of students from around the world. Under the theme of “Being United,” these activities gave tangible expression to ESCP’s Bold & United 2026–2030 Strategic Plan with a call to strengthen belonging and D&I values.

Over several dynamic induction days, the ESCP Berlin Well-being Department collaborated with students, staff and external partners to foster community, inclusion and creativity from day one.

“We ensure that all students feel welcome in the ESCP family and have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally,” said Sabrina Saase, Health & Well-being Manager at ESCP’s Berlin Campus. “These initiatives show how ESCP’s values of inclusion, diversity, and student agency can come to life in inspiring and actionable ways.”

From Words to Action: A Solidarity Photo Exhibition

In partnership with the AGORA student society and creative studio Schall & Schnabel, students participated in the “In Your Words: Show us your perspective on solidarity” photoshoot. Each student selected a word they believed essential to solidarity and unity—then wrote it on their hand as a symbolic gesture of commitment. The resulting group portraits will be exhibited as “From Words to Action” during the UN Women’s 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence campaign in November.

A New Buddy System Driving Creativity and Innovation

This semester marked the launch of a Buddy System for the youngest group of new students. Through the programme, Buddy Juniors are linked with more experienced peers, or Buddy Seniors, with an interest in entrepreneurship. Supported by Blue Factory Berlin, the mentorship initiative promotes belonging, leadership and innovation.

As part of a joint kick-off event, students attended the semi-final pitches for Stage 2, a pan-European competition for the best startups spinning out of leading universities. At the event, ESCP student entrepreneurs presented their start-up ideas, competing for a place in the next round.

After the event, the Buddies attended an exclusive exhibition showcasing the results of the entrepreneurial workshop “Improbable: An Art-Thinking Method” from participants in the Executive Master in Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme. The experience spotlighted ESCP’s commitment to imaginative problem-solving and cross-disciplinary thinking.

Diversity & Inclusion in Practice: Workshop with Un rôle à jouer

As part of the induction series, students participated in a diversity and inclusion workshop facilitated by Un rôle à jouer. The session tackled key topics including:

  • Gender-based violence
  • Racism and LGBTQIA+ discrimination
  • Ableism and other systemic barriers

The training focused on raising awareness, recognising and preventing sexism, racism, and all forms of violence, harassment, and discrimination, along with knowing where to turn for help at ESCP.

ESCP D&I workshops making students feel welcome

Promoting Connection Through Team-Building

Students also engaged in ice-breaker and team-building events designed to spark meaningful conversations. These sessions encouraged students to reflect on the values they share—such as sustainability, creativity, and curiosity—while celebrating difference as a source of innovation.

These successful well-being events are a best practice example of successful teamwork across departments and in cooperation with students and external partners.

Sabrina Saase
Health & Well-being Manager at ESCP Berlin

A warm thank you to the ESCP staff who helped coordinate and facilitate these activities and made them visible for our students:

  • Alma Péli-Çelik, Programme Manager, ESCP Berlin Campus
  • Betty Lapeyre, Programme Manager, ESCP Berlin Campus
  • Livia Zimermann, Head of the ESCP Blue Factory Berlin
  • Alison Masse, Senior Manager for Executive Degree & Entrepreneurship Programmes
  • Mallika Singh, Digital and Brand Communication Manager
  • René Mauer, Professor for Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Andrea Gommans, Head of Student Experience, Student Experience Berlin

Campuses

Berlin