Beijing, Shanghai, and GuangzhouJune 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the end of May 2026, emlyon business school launched the “emlyon Alumni-Connect the World” global alumni event, aimed at connecting alumni worldwide and building a platform for resource networking, idea exchange, and inspiration: no matter where you are, you can meet fellow alumni nearby and reignite the spirit of emlyon business school.
The “emlyon Alumni-Connect the World” event was held in four Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. Alumni gathered together, transcending industry and age boundaries, reliving campus memories amidst laughter and joy, discussing future opportunities, and collectively witnessing this moment of reunion for all emlyon members.
This event specially invited several distinguished guests to deliver thought-provoking keynote speeches. Standing at the forefront of the times, they offered forward-looking and insightful presentations that not only broadened alumni’s cognitive horizons but also injected new momentum into future career development and business strategies.
No matter where you are in the world, emlyon will always be your harbor for resource connections and your living room for idea exchange. We hope every alumnus can meet new friends and reunite with old acquaintances here, passing on the spirit and strength of emlyon in every handshake!
Anchoring Direction Amidst Waves of Change: emlyon Alumni-Connect the World • Shanghai Event
On May 23, the “emlyon Alumni-Connect the World” Shanghai event concluded successfully. Mr. David Gosset, an international relations expert, renowned sinologist, founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative and the China-Europe Forum, and Senior Advisor for Asia at emlyon business school, was invited to attend and delivered a keynote speech titled “From Megatrends to Strategic Layout: Business Development and Organizational Leadership in an Evolving Global System.”
Gaining Insight into Macro Trends, Exploring New Opportunities
At the beginning of his speech, Mr. David Gosset quoted Churchill and Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” warning against the empirical mindset of “preparing for the last war,” and emphasizing the importance of identifying trends and planning for the future amidst uncertainty. He sharply pointed out that the greatest challenge facing the world today is not so-called “deglobalization,” but fragile “decivilization.” In this era of exponential technological change, the real crisis lies in the fragility of human dignity, harmony among civilizations, and the relationship between humanity and nature.
Mr. David Gosset, international relations expert, renowned sinologist, founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative and the China-Europe Forum, and Senior Advisor for Asia at emlyon business school
In his speech, Mr. David Gosset discussed four major macro trends: demographic shifts, disruptive technological waves, the widespread diffusion of power, and profound geopolitical changes, offering a penetrating analysis of the evolving global landscape since the new century.
As the core of his speech, Gosset focused on interpreting China’s contemporary role. He emphasized that China’s economic takeoff is not merely a “rise” but a “return” to its historical status. The vast engineering talent dividend, the highly promising expansion of the middle class, and its leading position in green energy and high-tech exports all support China’s return to the center of the world stage. From the reshaping of Chinese aesthetics by the brand “Exception” to the global popularity of cultural icons like TikTok, China is demonstrating unprecedented cultural confidence. Therefore, Gosset particularly stressed: “Modernization does not equal Westernization.” The vigorous development of China and other emerging nations will undoubtedly contribute more diverse possibilities and wisdom to the global path of modernization.
Finally, addressing the major issue of U.S.-China relations, Gosset compared Eastern and Western views on war, suggesting that deep economic interdependence and the devastating consequences of the nuclear age will compel major powers to seek peace. The Eastern wisdom of “stopping war is the ultimate martial art” may offer new solutions to the world. The entire speech called on global business leaders to abandon zero-sum games, understand China’s rejuvenation with an open and inclusive mindset, and formulate truly visionary strategic layouts in a future of diverse civilizations coexisting and thriving together.
Uniting the emlyon Spirit, Embarking on a New Journey
Beyond the intellectual exchange, alumni enjoyed warm and pleasant interactions during the relaxed event activities, sharing friendships and exchanging viewpoints.
This “emlyon Alumni-Connect the World” event was not only a spark of wisdom but also a deep consolidation of the emlyon spirit. Looking ahead, emlyon business school will continue to walk alongside you, empowering business value with academic excellence and allowing Chinese wisdom to shine even brighter on the world stage.