22 April: first edition of African Night

On 22 April, a major evening celebrating African culture will take place on the Cergy campus. We spoke with Nermine Ben Bouazza (E28) and Ghilas Saighi (E28), respectively President and Vice-President of the ESSEC Africa Society.

In a few words, how would you describe the ESSEC Africa Society?

ESSEC Africa Society is an association that aims to build cultural and professional bridges. Throughout the year, we organise tastings of African specialities on campus, as well as round tables and conferences. We also offer an annual trip to an African country — last year, for instance, to Cape Verde. 

Through its various initiatives, the association seeks to celebrate the diversity of African nationalities represented at ESSEC and to position ESSEC as a committed and internationally open institution.

What will be happening on 22 April on the Cergy campus?

On 22 April 2026, the very first edition of African Night will take place in the main auditorium of the Cergy campus.

We have designed the event in three parts. The evening will open with an artistic performance, followed by a round table featuring, among others, Élisabeth Moreno (Executive MBA 06), former Minister Delegate for Gender Equality, Diversity and Equal Opportunities, who is deeply committed to economic and entrepreneurial issues related to Africa.

The evening will conclude with a networking cocktail featuring African specialities.

What role did Asso Rezo play in bringing this project to life?

We received a grant of €1,000 from ESSEC Alumni as part of the 2026 Asso Rezo call for projects. This support was crucial in launching the first edition: we are expecting 400 participants. Ticket sales will then be reinvested to fund the 2027 edition, with the aim of making the event sustainable from next year onwards.

Beyond financial support, how can the ESSEC Alumni community contribute to this project?

First and foremost, by attending African Night. Welcoming both alumni and students on campus, in a setting designed for exchange, lies at the heart of our project. This evening has been conceived as a space for intergenerational dialogue around the economic, cultural and geopolitical issues related to Africa. Alumni can also get involved in the association by suggesting speakers. They are equally key in promoting the event within their professional communities.