«bili»-Talks

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Domingo S. Domingo, the beaming chef, shows off all his skills in the kitchen and has been honoured for this with 15 Gault Millau points. He cheerfully combines the classic with the daring, mixes flavours with stylistic confidence and moves skilfully between European and Asian cuisine.

Abstract
Everything is possible

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Zineb "Zizi" Hattab – 14 Gault Millau points - was a software engineer a few years ago, but today she is one of Switzerland's best-known chefs. Code and data are no ingredients in the kitchen, but if you eat at Zizi Hattab's restaurant, you might taste them after all.

Abstract
Finding your path

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Stephan started as a logistics apprentice 20 years ago and is now responsible for the global supply chain of one of the world’s most prestigious luxury retailers. No matter how high the mountain in front of you looks, if you don't try to climb it, you will never have the chance to enjoy the stunning view from the top.

Abstract
What does it take to succeed in your career? Starting as a logistics apprentice, Stephan worked his way up to a global supply chain leadership role at one of the world’s leading luxury retailers. As a teenager, he opted for an apprenticeship in logistics in order to acquire a solid foundation for his career. With a clear goal in mind and the confidence to achieve it, he pursued his journey despite all the discouraging comments from others. Convinced that a bilingual education is an asset in today’s business world, Stephan will also share insights on how you can use foreign languages to boost your success.

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At a young age, Chris founded the brainstorming platform Atizo, which he sold in 2014. In 2016, he and his wife launched Powercoders, a programming school for refugees. His latest venture was a spin-off called Remotecoders, which aims to create career entry opportunities for disadvantaged IT talent in Egypt.

Abstract
In his talk, Chris will speak about the value of linguistic and cultural competence. As a 17-year old he spent one year on a farm in rural Nebraska to improve his English. For him this was a mind-shifting experience since he did not only learn English but also immersed himself into a very different culture. Today he works at Powercoders with refugees and migrants coming from over 18 different countries and speaking over 20 different languages. He says about his work: "Every day I get up to be taught something new from someone unexpected."

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A spicy breakfast before work and an autorickshaw ride to the office became part of Jana's daily life in India. The 24-year-old is passionate about broadening her horizons and immersing herself in different cultures. That's why, after completing her studies in International Business Administration, she took a leap and moved to Bengaluru, South India, to work as an Academic Engagement Associate for the Swiss Science Consulate "Swissnex".

Abstract
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in a country where everything is different from what you're used to? Jana will take you on a journey as she shares stories of living in Bengaluru, South India, and working for the Swiss Science Consulate "Swissnex". From enjoying tasty street food to navigating through unfamiliar communication habits, she'll share the highs, lows, and lessons that shaped her cultural adventure.

Have you ever been tempted to swap your comfort zone for India's vibrant chaos? Let's explore why you should consider packing your bags - for an experience that could redefine your world.

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Guy Katz has extensive experience lecturing, managing, and consulting in strategy, international management, and negotiation and holds a Ph.D. from the LMU University of Munich dealing with intercultural negotiations.

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In his talk, Guy will walk us through his life across at least two cultures. Born in Israel with a handicap, Guy spent some of his childhood in Munich, Germany, to realize the importance of language and intercultural skills at a young age. He then finished high school in Israel to fight his way through the Israeli Defence Forces and proudly finish as a Lieutenant. After that, Guy came back to Munich to study, and he still does not believe he became a Dr. a few years later - all through making the right decisions at the right time, which he likes to call “steering the snowball of his life.” Today, Guy is a Professor of International Management, also working with some super exciting companies like BMW and Rolex. Most importantly, he is the father of two beautiful little boys. In his spare time, Guy rides motorcycles and flies airplanes.

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After a commercial apprenticeship at Zurich Airport, an internship in Tokyo and an unfulfilling glimpse into a business program, she found her true passion in the field of psychology. She will soon complete her Master's degree and begin her training as a psychotherapist.

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Embark on a transformative journey with Nina! Discover how her apprenticeship at Zurich Airport opened the doors to the world for her, leading to a two-month stint in Tokyo, where she experienced what it means to live in a completely different working and cultural environment. 

After giving business studies a try, she quickly abandoned it and discovered her true passion: psychology. Now, on the verge of completing her Master's in Psychology, she's set to embark on a new chapter as a psychotherapist.

Never quite leaving the professional life during her studies, she worked with young refugees and families with members suffering from mental illness — a testament to her evolving journey from commerce to compassion.

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Corrado Tona, a visionary leader in luxury interior design, initially honed his skills as an apprentice cabinet maker. His journey, marked by unwavering passion and commitment, evolved from mastering the art of cabinet making to leading the One Obrist Group as its CSO, renowned for high-profile collaborations with luxury brands. A dynamic professional with a global perspective, Corrado's success, shaped by language proficiency and diverse experiences, serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of dedication and continuous learning.

Abstract
Unleashing Potential: A Journey from Apprenticeship to CEO

Embark on a transformative journey with Corrado Tona in his “bili-talk”  as he shares the secrets of his rise from a passionate cabinet maker's apprentice to the esteemed role of Group CSO and CEO at Obrist Interior America Inc., renowned for luxury collaborations worldwide. Through his experiences in San Diego and beyond, Corrado unveils the profound impact of language proficiency in shaping a global career. Join him for an inspiring session on the untapped potential that language learning holds for your own extraordinary career advancement.