Rethinking leadership through nature with Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro

What does leadership look like in a world shaped by climate urgency, rapid technological change, and shifting economic systems? In Episode 2 of Season 3 of Her Voice, the podcast from The Choice by ESCP, Dr. Éliane Ubalijoro shares her journey and her perspective on how leadership must evolve to meet today’s interconnected challenges. Born in Rwanda and raised across three continents, Dr. Ubalijoro is now CEO of the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) and Director General of World Agroforestry as well as a member of ESCP’s Sustainability Advisory Council. With a background in agriculture and a Master’s and PhD in molecular genetics from McGill University, she has spent over two decades working at the intersection of science, policy, and partnerships to advance sustainable development worldwide. In this episode, we explore: Why nature should be seen as essential infrastructure—not just a resource How ecosystems and science can inform more resilient leadership models The role of AI and technology, and why inclusion must be at the centre of innovation How redefining value beyond financial metrics can reshape business and society Why long-term, systems-based thinking is critical for future leaders In a world facing complex global challenges, this conversation is a powerful reminder: sustainable leadership starts with understanding how everything is connected.