From a chateau just outside of Paris, we meet some new members of the HEC Paris MBA Class of 2026 in this edition of our Real Humans: MBA Students series.
HEC Paris, a name synonymous with global excellence, continues to attract an incredibly diverse and dynamic cohort of MBA students, each bringing unique perspectives and inspiring career trajectories. The new class numbers 268 students. Forty percent are women and 95 percent hail from outside of France, representing 60 nationalities. New HEC Paris students matriculated with an average of six years of work experience at an average age of 30. When it came time to take the GMAT, they reported an average score of 690. From Shanghai to Lagos, Bangkok to Arequipa, the Class of 2026 represents a confluence of talent, ambition, and multiculturalism that enriches the HEC experience.
First we hear from Zainab Arilesere, a product management leader from Lagos, Nigeria, who brings experience from startups, consulting, and scaling ventures. Drawn by HEC’s emphasis on social impact, experiential learning, and its global reputation, Zainab is ready to immerse herself in the program while exploring new opportunities in retail, private equity, and startups. Then, Chenyue Yuan, a media industry veteran from Shanghai, shares how her MBA ambitions reignited after a pandemic-related pause. With over 11 years of experience producing video series for global platforms, Chenyue chose HEC Paris for its strong ties to luxury brands, user-driven approaches, and multicultural ethos. Next, Raphael Zegarra, an economist and fintech entrepreneur from Peru, brings his entrepreneurial spirit and investment advisory expertise to the mix. Inspired by the French experience, HEC’s post-MBA opportunities, and its vibrant alumni network, Raphael is excited to optimize synergies within his cohort while pursuing a leap in his financial career. Finally, Supawish Thamsuaydee, a former pilot from Thailand, transitioned into consulting and project management before setting his sights on redefining Thailand’s aviation industry. HEC’s customizable curriculum and focus on innovation perfectly align with his goals, and he’s already making an impression as a thoughtful and collaborative contributor to the class.
Together, the Class of 2026 at HEC Paris is poised to redefine what it means to lead in a globalized world. Their shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and making meaningful contributions ensures a transformative journey filled with learning, connection, and impact. Read on for their stories.
