#Iconic_Audencians: Stéphanie Gateau (ISMA 91), joy and kindness as driving forces

  • Business
  • Le 19 juin 2023

Stéphanie Gateau, ISMA 1991, CEO & Founder, Handiroad, International Strategy, Paris

Stéphanie’s path to date has been one of ups and downs. She was diagnosed with a rare neurodegenerative disease and Asperger’s syndrome and her family struggled to accept her differences. At her lowest point, Stéphanie was living in emergency housing and eating at foodbanks. However, despite her reduced mobility and hearing impairment, in 2009, this single mother of 3 set up her consulting firm and went on to build a successful career in international strategy. 4 years ago, Stéphanie launched the Handiroad app and in 2019, Exportunity, with both initiatives earning her awards and recognition as an international incubator and growth specialist. She is dedicated to strengthening the legislation on disability and the French government seeks out her expertise on a regular basis.

In overcoming the harshest difficulties, Stéphanie has developed a rare ability to turn kicks in the teeth into a strength that puts her back on her feet and propels her forward with an even stronger eagerness to fight. Years of being ignored and rejected have made her resilient and innovative. However, her most admirable quality is perhaps the positive energy and sense of wonderment she exudes. Stéphanie never loses an opportunity to stress how lucky she feels and her story is a lesson in gratitude. Although she faces the day-to-day realities of ill health and the prospect of physical decline a short way ahead, Stéphanie is aware of how precious life is and the power of mind over body.

Stéphanie thanked us for showing interest in her journey and for allowing her to speak safely. After years of suffering herself, Stéphanie’s purpose is to help those in difficulty who are still too shy or ashamed to open up. “It is thanks to initiatives like the ‘Iconic Alumni portraits’ that people like me can find the energy and the motivation to move forward.”

 
 
For the third year in a row, we are delighted and proud to showcase 12 new profiles of Audencians from around the globe. The alumni that you will discover have very generously given up their time for an interview for which we are immensely grateful.
Discover all the portraits here


 
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