Eight students from three Professional Master’s programs at FGV EAESP’s São Paulo School of Business Administration participated in a global immersion on sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance) in China. The event, organized by The Council on Business & Society (CoBS) in partnership with Fudan University in Shanghai, provided an intense experience of learning, culture and responsible business practices. 

Classes and Practical Experience 

During their immersion in Shanghai, students participated in a week full of classes and activities. Topics covered included “Chinese Economy: Prospects for Sustainable Growth,” “Sustainable and Responsible Investment: China and Beyond,” “Consumer Insights and Marketing Practices in Ethical Consumption,” and “E-commerce in China.” At the end of the week, students presented group projects related to ESG practices and the Chinese business landscape. 

Yasmin Riveli, a student of the Professional Master’s in Management and Public Policy (MPGPP), was part of the winning group of the competition proposed during the event. “We were challenged to develop strategies to leverage companies with a strong presence in China. My group focused on Tencent’s expansion in the cultural segment, with a focus on partnerships and content production guided by diversity and gender equity. Winning first place was an honor and gave me even more confidence to continue in the area of ​​responsible business,” celebrated Yasmin. 

In addition to the classes, the immersion provided a rich cultural experience for the participants. Anna Curatella, a student of the Professional Master's in International Management (MPGI), highlighted the value of this exchange of knowledge and experience. “Studying at a Chinese university, alongside colleagues from different parts of the world, broadened my vision of international cooperation in sustainability. In addition to the classes, we had the opportunity to experience the local culture, from the gastronomy to Tai Chi classes and traditional Chinese medicine. It was an unforgettable and enriching experience,” commented Anna. 

Alexandre Del Pino, a student on the Professional Master’s in Administration (MPA), highlights that the experience began even before the trip to China. “We participated in two preparatory stages: a week of online classes and an activity simulator, which included competitions between groups. These phases were essential to maximize our learning during the immersion. In Shanghai, we visited companies such as Lenovo and Trip, which helped us understand how theory applies in practice. The hospitality of the Fudan University team was incredible and helped us integrate and make the most of the experience,” said Alexandre.  

Global Impact 

The CoBS program and the partnership with Fudan University provided FGV students with a unique insight into responsible business practices in China, as well as a valuable multicultural experience. By integrating theory, practice and cultural immersion, the event reaffirms FGV’s commitment to developing leaders prepared to face global challenges with responsibility and innovation. 

This experience in China was more than just an academic learning opportunity; it was an important step towards building a global network of professionals committed to sustainability and business ethics. As Yasmin Riveli summed it up: “Earning the Council on Business & Society certificate in my first semester at MPGPP was a milestone. This experience opened new doors for the future, both professionally and personally.” 

Global Alliance for Responsible Leadership 

CoBS, founded in 2011, is an international alliance of leading business schools with the goal of promoting responsible business leadership. With 11 member schools spread across six continents and 15 countries, CoBS is a platform for developing leaders committed to sustainability. FGV is the only representative from Latin America in this prestigious alliance. 

The intensive program, titled “Responsible Entrepreneurship and Intrapreneurship in China with a Special Focus on ESG,” is part of FGV’s ongoing effort to provide cutting-edge education on corporate sustainability. With three phases, the last of which concluded in July with a week-long immersion at Fudan University. 

esforço contínuo da FGV em fornecer uma educação de ponta sobre sustentabilidade corporativa. Com três fases, a última delas foi concluída em julho, com uma semana de imersão na Universidade de Fudan.