Author: Daniela Gamez

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Paris

À bientôt Paris 2024

Attending the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games was a transformative experience that exceeded all my expectations. The lessons I learned, the people I met, the skills I get and the sustainable practices I witnessed have all left an indelible mark on my academic and professional journey. Reflecting on this experience, I am more motivated than ever to apply the insights gained to my future endeavors in Tourism, Hospitality, and Events Management.

            One of the most significant takeaways from the Paris 2024 Olympics was the importance of meticulous planning and execution in event management. Observing how such a massive global event was orchestrated, from logistics to crowd management and security, provided me with invaluable insights into the complexities of managing large-scale events. I learned the critical role of teamwork, coordination, and adaptability in ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Moving forward, I plan to apply these lessons to future projects by prioritizing comprehensive planning, fostering strong communication channels, and being prepared to adapt to unforeseen challenges. These skills will be crucial as I pursue a career in event management, where the stakes are high, and the impact of successful execution is profound.

The Paris 2024 Olympics set a new standard for sustainability in event management, and witnessing these initiatives firsthand has profoundly influenced my perspective. From the use of renewable energy to waste reduction strategies and community engagement efforts, the Games demonstrated that large-scale events can be both successful and environmentally responsible. This experience has strengthened my commitment to advocating for sustainability in all future projects I undertake. I plan to integrate sustainable practices into every aspect of event planning, from sourcing eco-friendly materials to reducing carbon footprints and promoting social responsibility. Additionally, I will use my platform to educate others about the importance of sustainability in the industry, encouraging clients and colleagues to adopt green practices in their projects.

            The Paris 2024 Olympics was a defining experience in my academic and professional journey. The lessons learned, particularly in event management and sustainability, will guide my future endeavors, and the connections made will continue to support my professional growth. I am excited to apply these insights to create impactful, sustainable, and successful events that leave a lasting positive impact on both people and the planet.

   I can only say a heartfelt THANK YOU, GW! This truly marks the beginning of a career I am confident will be filled with success, thanks to the incredible guidance and opportunities I’ve received. To my professors, I am deeply grateful for your mentorship and unwavering support throughout this class, as well as for every piece of wisdom-filled advice you’ve shared. To my classmates, thank you for making our time in Paris so memorable. This experience brought us closer together and, I believe, has laid the foundation for a bright future ahead.

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Paris

It’s almost time to close this chapter and start a new stage

As my journey at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games comes to an end, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and reflection. This experience has been nothing short of transformative, offering countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. The lessons learned, the people I met, and the memories created will remain with me for a lifetime.

            One of the most significant takeaways from the Paris Olympics is the power of sport to unite people from diverse backgrounds. The Games provided a unique platform for athletes, volunteers, and spectators to come together, transcending cultural and national boundaries. I witnessed firsthand how the Olympics foster a sense of global community, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, respect, and mutual understanding. Additionally, the focus on sustainability at these Games has reinforced my commitment to integrating eco-friendly practices into future projects. The innovative approaches to waste management, renewable energy use, and social responsibility were inspiring, and I am eager to apply these principles in my career in event management.

            This experience has also been a journey of personal growth and development. Interacting with classmates, volunteers, and professionals from various backgrounds has enriched my understanding of different perspectives and approaches to challenges. Each person I met brought unique experiences and interests, contributing to a collective learning environment that was both dynamic and enlightening. Whether it was discussing event management strategies, exploring cultural differences, or sharing personal stories, these interactions broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the diversity of thought and experience that defines the Olympic spirit. This experience has underscored the value of collaboration and the importance of learning from others, reinforcing my belief that true growth happens when we open ourselves up to new ideas and perspectives.

            Among the many memorable moments during the Games, one stands out as particularly impactful: meeting Faith Ogallo, a medalist from Kenya in Tokyo 2020. Faith’s story of using her platform to contribute to her community through sustainable initiatives and teaching taekwondo was incredibly inspiring. Her dedication to making a positive impact beyond her athletic achievements resonated deeply with me. Faith’s work in sustainability and community development is a powerful reminder of the influence athletes can have in driving social change. Our conversation left me motivated to pursue my own passions with a similar sense of purpose and responsibility. It also highlighted the importance of giving back to the community and using one’s skills and experiences to create lasting, positive change.

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games have been an unforgettable experience, filled with learning, growth, and inspiration. The key takeaways from this journey, including the power of global unity, the importance of sustainability, and the value of diverse perspectives, will guide me as I move forward in my career. The personal growth I’ve experienced and the memorable moments I’ve shared with remarkable individuals like Faith Ogalla have enriched my understanding of what it means to be part of a global community. As I leave Paris, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to applying these lessons in all my future endeavors. As well shaking hands with Price Albert and having the chance to introduce myself with him, was a big and memorable opportunity that I would never have without GWU program and connections.

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Paris

The journey is going great!

This is week 2 at Paris 2024 Olympic Games and my time has been an eye-opening experience filled with invaluable insights and opportunities for growth. As the weeks unfolded, I found myself immersed in a unique blend of learning, cultural exchange, and hands-on experience that has profoundly shaped my understanding of global events and their management.

            One of the most impactful aspects of this journey was the opportunity to engage with guest speakers who shared their expertise and experiences in various aspects of the Olympic Games. One of my favorite speakers was Rebecca Perez from Paris 2024, in charge of Venue Business Operations; they were dynamic discussions that allowed us to delve into the intricacies of event management and specifically of the Spectators experience preparation, F&B and Hospitality. Hearing from professionals like her who played pivotal roles in organizing the Games provided me with a deeper appreciation for the complexity and coordination required to pull off an event of this magnitude. Her insights into the behind-the-scenes challenges and successes offered valuable lessons that I can apply to future endeavors in my field.

Guest speaker: Rebecca Perez

A highlight of my time in Paris was the chance to share my culture with my classmates by taking them to La Casa Colombia, a cultural hub set up during the Games. It was a proud moment for me to introduce my peers to the rich traditions, vibrant music, and delicious cuisine of Colombia. This experience was not only about sharing my heritage but also about building connections and fostering cross-cultural understanding. La Casa Colombia provided a relaxed atmosphere where we could network with athletes, officials, and other visitors, exchanging stories and experiences that transcended borders. This cultural exchange was a powerful reminder of the unifying spirit of the Olympics and the importance of embracing diversity.

Warm welcome from the Colombian Embassy

Volunteering at the USA House, OLY House, and Canada House was another enriching experience that allowed me to contribute to the Games while also expanding my professional network. Each of these spaces served as a gathering place for athletes, their families, and supporters, and being part of the team that facilitated these interactions was incredibly rewarding. I learned a great deal about hospitality, event coordination, security and the importance of creating welcoming environments that reflect the values and spirit of the Olympic Games. 

First visit to the USA House
Volunteering at the OLY House

Overall, the progress I’ve made during this time in Paris goes beyond academic learning. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the Olympic movement, developed my networking skills, and had the chance to share and celebrate my culture on a global stage. These experiences have not only enriched my knowledge but also strengthened my resolve to pursue a career that bridges cultures and promotes sustainability and unity through events. The insights and memories from this journey will stay with me as I move forward in my professional journey.

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Paris

Bienvenue à Paris 2024

It has been a week since I arrived in Paris for the incredible course abroad, “Olympic Games Paris 2024, Behind the Scenes” and it has definitely been a memorable experience since day one!

My trip started with reading news about how many people are expected to arrive in Paris for the Games. To my surprise, I am one of the 1.5 million people! This is not my first time in Paris, but experiencing the city during the Olympics is completely different. The city is dressed with Olympic decarations; all its streets, corners, restaurants, and monuments are festooned with flags representing the Games, and the iconic Olympic rings are everywhere. It is fascinating to see people from all over the world, proudly wearing their flags and celebrating in the streets, even though the Games hadn’t started when I first arrived.

The joy and excitement that the Olympic Games bring are palpable and dominate the atmosphere in Paris right now. My first impression was one of admiration for the city’s organization and preparation. The welcoming spirit of the Games was evident from the moment I arrived at the airport. Banners and signs directed visitors, and cheerful volunteers were on hand to assist, embodying the hospitality and enthusiasm that characterize the Olympics.

As I explored the city, I was struck by how seamlessly Paris has integrated the Olympic theme into its cultural fabric. The historic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, have been beautifully illuminated with Olympic colors, creating a festive yet respectful homage to both the city’s heritage and the global event. The Seine River is bustling with Olympic-themed boat tours, and parks are hosting various sports demonstrations and interactive exhibits, as well as public screaming of the competitions in different locations all around the city, making the spirit of the Games accessible to everyone.

The experience so far has been awe-inspiring. From the grand scale of the preparations to the small, thoughtful details aimed at enhancing visitor experience, Paris 2024 is living up to its promise of being an extraordinary celebration of sports and international unity. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this adventure has in store!

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Paris

D-5 Paris 2024

Only 5 days until this new adventure starts! As a George Washington University School of Business (GWSB) student, the opportunity to attend the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games is not only a dream come true but also a pivotal moment in my academic and professional journey. With my background in Tourism, Hospitality, and Events Management, this experience promises to be both enriching and transformative, offering hands-on exposure to one of the world’s most significant events. 

Although I am filled with excitement and enthusiasm, the preparation for this trip has been the primary foundation. Part of that preparation is the opportunity to write my report on the sustainable strategies that the destination is implementing. It is truly amazing that through the “Behind the Scenes of the Olympics” class I can research and do the corresponding literature review and that in just a few days I will be able to do field research, comparing what I have researched with the reality of what will happen. The Paris 2024 Olympics will not only showcase the pinnacle of athletic achievement but also highlight the importance of sustainability and social responsibility, areas that align closely with my studies and career aspirations. The Games will be a platform for demonstrating innovative practices in event management, from waste reduction and renewable energy use to inclusive community engagement. Diving deep into the sustainability initiatives of the Paris 2024 Games I can have a better understanding how these principles are integrated into every aspect of the event. This knowledge will not only enhance my academic understanding but also provide valuable insights for my future career. 

In addition to the classes, I had before the trip, I also had to attend different meetings with The USA House Volunteer Crew, preparing and training ourselves for such an important mission during the Games. Although this will not be the only activity we will be doing, I really hope to make new connections and do an excellent job while volunteering.

Also, I cannot wait to visit the different museums, enjoy cultural experiences and of course, to try the famous French cuisine. My Check list is almost finished and ready to be all marked!