As a former infantry officer in the Danish Army, I have always been intrigued by different cultures, people, and politics. This curiosity recently led me to embark on a journey through South America, where I set out to learn more about the incredible diversity of the region and its people.
In September, I began my travels in Colombia. From crystal-clear Caribbean beaches to thrilling dirt bike rides through the jungle, I immersed myself in the vibrant culture. I visited a favela in Medellín, once considered one of the most dangerous places in the world and ended my Colombian journey meeting the warm and welcoming local communities and whale-watching on the remote Pacific coast.
From Colombia, I ventured to Peru, where my main objective was to hike the Andes and learn about the history of the indigenous peoples and the Inca Empire. I trekked through the stunning Cordillera Blanca, passing through breathtaking valleys and lagoons beneath a canopy of celestial nights. In Cusco, the cultural hub of the Inca Empire, I marveled at the juxtaposition of its rise and fall.
One of the highlights was the Ausangate trek, where sediment and minerals created the stunningly colorful Rainbow Mountains. And, of course, I couldn’t miss one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu – a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca people, nestled deep in the Peruvian jungle.
Now, I find myself in Bolivia, a country brimming with diversity – from the Amazon jungle to the Andes Mountains and the world’s largest salt flats. Here, I summited Huayna Potosí (6,088m), Bolivia’s fifth-highest mountain, in a challenging climb that began at midnight and saw me reaching the summit at sunrise.
So, what does this have to do with my upcoming MBA journey at IMD? Everything. My travels were driven by a desire to connect with people, to understand their cultures, and to see the world through their eyes. This same desire fuels my excitement to join the IMD MBA Class of 2025.
I look forward to immersing myself in an environment of diverse perspectives, learning from my classmates’ unique backgrounds, and building meaningful connections. The lessons I’ve learned on this journey – resilience, adaptability, and curiosity – will undoubtedly shape my next chapter.
Here’s to embracing new challenges and broadening horizons!
