Turning Points Chair Launches Gen Z Observatory’s Fifth Cohort of Content Curators

As the world grapples with complex societal changes—from evolving cultural norms to the impact of new technologies—the perspectives of Generation Z are increasingly shaping the global conversation. The Gen Z Observatory, a collaboration between Maison Cartier, ESCP Business School, and HEC Paris, was established to bring the insights of this generation to the fore. The Observatory recently welcomed its fifth cohort of student content curators to explore generational and cultural shifts from the perspective of Gen Z.

Welcoming a New Cohort of Gen Z Content Curators

First launched in 2021 as part of the Turning Points Research Chair, the Gen Z Observatory is a dynamic platform for intergenerational dialogue and research. In December 2024, the Observatory welcomed its fifth cohort of student content curators selected from over 150 applicants.

This year’s curators are:

Alfiya Shaikh (ESCP Business School)
Erika Azzopardi-Kawahara (ESCP Business School)
Ishita Arora (HEC Paris)
Janna Asghari (ESCP Business School)
Maria Paula Enriquez (ESCP Business School)
Teodora Radenovic (HEC Paris)
Yelissah Gabala (ESCP Business School)

Hailing from India, Japan, Ecuador, Serbia, the United States, Côte d’Ivoire, and France, they reflect the Observatory’s commitment to curating diverse perspectives as well as its evolving scope.

A collaboration between two prestigious European business schools and Cartier, the Gen Z Observatory demonstrates academic and industry cooperation at an impressive scale. This partnership bridges the gap between theory and practice, bringing together students and Cartier worldwide employees to engage with the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

"We have become more ambitious in our aim of mapping the diversity of Gen Z’s views of the world,” says Benjamin Voyer, ESCP Professor and Co-Scientific Director of the Turning Points Chair. “All of our members also now receive dedicated research training so that they can produce the best possible research."

The Gen Z Observatory: A Think Tank for the Modern World

The Gen Z Observatory functions as a modern think tank. Participants meet every two months to discuss key societal issues—from sustainability to technology—and to develop actionable insights for businesses and communities alike. This effort is enriched by the diversity of participants, who bring unique perspectives that deepen the understanding of Generation Z.

"This rich mix of cultures, experiences, and perspectives is crucial to our mission of understanding our generation,” says Sayoko Magnon, a former content curator who now works as a project manager for the Observatory. “By bringing together students from such different backgrounds, we can gain deeper insights into how young people think, feel, and perceive the world."

The Observatory has been a transformative experience for previous participants, offering opportunities to strengthen their professional and research skills while building global networks. Previous cohorts have tackled critical topics such as reimagining sustainable consumption models, redefining work-life balance, and understanding Gen Z’s relationship with technology. These discussions have led to impactful frameworks for addressing real-world challenges.

Turning Points Chair: Anticipating Inflection Points

The Gen Z Observatory is a key initiative of the Cartier-ESCP-HEC Turning Points Chair, co-directed by Prof. Voyer and Prof. Anne Laure Sellier from HEC Paris. The Chair focuses on understanding and addressing critical research questions related to shifting consumer behaviours, sustainability, and the values of Generation Z.

The Observatory exchanges help the Chair advance in its mission of anticipating and responding to key turning points in culture, business, and consumption. “The discussion on technology was particularly compelling because it highlighted a much more complex relationship between Gen Z and innovation,” recalls Prof. Voyer. "Our first cross-generational dialogues last year were other standout moments, bringing together curators and distinguished speakers for engaging and thought-provoking exchanges."

Our first cross-generational dialogues last year were other standout moments, bringing together curators and distinguished speakers for engaging and thought-provoking exchanges.

What’s Next for the Gen Z Observatory?

As the 2024-2025 cohort embarks on its journey, the curators will explore three central themes including community, truth, as well as a topic chosen collaboratively by the cohort. They will develop impactful contributions, building on the legacy of the Observatory’s previous cohorts.

“My hope is that the new cohort will keep on surprising us and challenge stereotypes about their generation,” says Prof. Voyer. “We’re starting the year by discussing what it means to be committed when you are from Generation Z.”

Learn more about the Observatory’s impact and explore alumni testimonials here.

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