A Global Mindset in Motion, Gabriela Pavia’s Path from Latin America to Europe via the EDHEC Global MBA Programme
How a multicultural marketer built an international career through the EDHEC Global MBA experience.
Born in Argentina, raised in Colombia and with Italian roots, Gabriela (Gaby) Pavia sees her multicultural background as a key source of strength. Her early career in Latin America, working in marketing and consumer and market insights across industries, sparked a lasting interest in how cultural awareness drives business growth.
In 2019, after nearly four years of professional experience, she moved to France to pursue the EDHEC Global MBA, a ten-month, full-time programme taught in English in Nice. “My goal was to strengthen my international business acumen, transition my career to the European market, and live a transformative experience that would stay with me forever,” she says.
Initially considering a specialised master’s degree, her experience soon pointed her toward an MBA. “The diverse backgrounds, career maturity, and international focus typical of MBA programmes made it the right environment for me,” she explains.
Choosing EDHEC
Gaby was drawn to EDHEC for its international scope, reputation and structure. Global MBA cohorts typically feature around 70 participants representing about 25 nationalities and an average of seven years’ professional experience.
“It was an incredibly enriching and open-minded environment where connections came naturally,” she says. Scholarship opportunities were another key factor. “The financial support made the decision attainable and rewarding.”
She also appreciated the programme’s experiential design.
“It provided the academic rigour I wanted, while allowing me to learn through real-world experiences.” The programme’s setting added its own appeal. “It’s a beautiful city by the Mediterranean Sea,” she says.
“It’s easy to travel from, small enough to see your classmates often, and the sea is within walking distance.”
Learning to lead
Throughout the programme, Gaby developed a deeper understanding of leadership. Through group projects, international modules, and interactions with experienced professionals, she learned to adapt, communicate across cultures, and lead with clarity.
“The MBA strengthened my leadership skills,” she says. “It exposed me to diverse perspectives and complex situations. I learned how to lead teams effectively across cultures and to make strategic decisions under uncertainty.”
She highlights the Lead360 career and leadership development programme as one of the most valuable elements of the experience.
The structured coaching, networking, and communication workshops helped her refine her professional identity. “It helped me understand my strengths and recognise areas for growth,” she says. “It also gave me the tools to motivate and inspire others.”
Building a lasting community
For Gaby, the friendships and shared experiences she built during the programme remain among its greatest rewards. “Everyone was navigating change, facing challenges, and supporting one another,” she says. “The sense of community was real and lasting.”
That spirit continues through the EDHEC Alumni network, which connects 60,000 graduates in 140 countries. “I’m still in touch with many of my classmates,” she says. “We continue to exchange ideas and help each other professionally.”
She also counts them among her closest friends. “For me, the most unforgettable part about the programme wasn’t just the classroom learning, but the lifelong friendships I made and the unique experiences we shared together.”
Confidence, connection, and continued growth
Gaby now builds on the foundation she created at EDHEC, pursuing an international marketing career in Europe. “The Global MBA changed how I see myself as a professional,” she says. “It gave me the courage to take initiative, make bold decisions, and keep learning.”
Her advice to future participants is clear.
“Go for it and make the most of the experience academically and personally."
“As an international student, the programme makes it easy to connect with others: everyone is on the same page, navigating new challenges and opportunities, which makes it wonderful to be surrounded by people who truly understand your perspective,” she says.
“What you gain at EDHEC stays with you long after graduation.”
About the EDHEC Global MBA
Delivered in Nice, the EDHEC Global MBA is a ten-month, full-time programme designed for experienced professionals seeking to accelerate or pivot their international careers. Each class includes participants from around 25 nationalities with an average of seven years’ professional experience.
The programme combines strategic foundations, sustainability projects, leadership development, and global learning expeditions. Its Lead360 framework supports personal growth and career direction, while specialisation tracks in International Finance, Digital Innovation and AI, and Entrepreneurship allow participants to tailor their journey to their goals.
Ranked among the top 20 MBAs worldwide for value for money and international mobility, and #1 worldwide for entrepreneurship, the programme prepares leaders to drive innovation and positive impact in an evolving global economy.
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