Joelle Ikouaguila Nkeze
Summer Student Story
The program’s interactive pedagogy and the involvement of experienced practitioners ensured that learning remained closely connected to real-world applications.
My professional journey has progressively led me to the intersection of industry, energy, and finance. Born and raised in Gabon, I moved to France to study Industrial Engineering, specializing in risk management. I began my career in aeronautics and e-commerce before transitioning into the energy sector, where I have spent the past three years contributing to the launch of three greenfield lithium-ion battery plants across Europe and Japan.
Throughout these experiences, I found myself consistently drawn to the financial dimensions of projects—CAPEX planning, cost optimization, and return analysis. I became increasingly interested in how financial frameworks shape strategic and operational decisions. At the same time, I developed a strong motivation to contribute to high-impact infrastructure and energy projects, particularly in emerging markets.
To bridge these interests, I joined the HEC Paris Energy & Finance Summer Program.
The program provided a rigorous and practical introduction to the financial and strategic fundamentals of the energy sector. Through a combination of case studies, technical lectures, and real-world insights, I developed a clearer understanding of what makes an energy project “bankable,” from risk allocation to financing structures and market dynamics.
One of the most valuable takeaways was a shift in perspective—from a linear “produce and consume” approach to a more integrated “consumption and production” strategy. The program emphasized how energy systems must be designed in alignment with local constraints, including resource availability, climate considerations, and social priorities. This approach highlighted the importance of diversification, demand-side management, and long-term resilience in energy planning.
The diversity of the cohort was also a key strength. Engaging with professionals from different regions and across the energy value chain enriched discussions and provided new perspectives on risk, investment, and transition pathways. It also reinforced the importance of adapting communication and decision-making to different cultural and institutional contexts.
Finally, the program’s interactive pedagogy and the involvement of experienced practitioners—from institutions such as Société Générale, the IFC, and BGN—ensured that learning remained closely connected to real-world applications. A particularly impactful exercise involved taking on the role of a government advisor navigating energy security and geopolitical constraints, bringing the complexity of energy decision-making into sharp focus.
I would highly recommend this program to early-career professionals working in or around the energy sector, as well as those considering a transition into energy finance. It is especially valuable for individuals seeking to strengthen their financial skills while gaining a broader, more strategic understanding of the energy ecosystem.