Where are they now?

Study programme Universalising Socio-Economic Security for the Poor - Post Graduate Diploma

Year of graduation 2006

Country of origin Uganda

Current occupation Founder of New Cares Ltd

What made your time at ISS special? The cultural diversity, deeply engaging classes and the friendships that blossomed across continents made my time at ISS truly special. I felt like I was part of a global family working toward justice and equality.

What is your best memory of ISS? The India Track fieldwork stands out as one of my best memories. Visiting SEWA and Kudumbashree was eye-opening and deeply influential. Also, the late-night discussions with classmates over tea, wrestling with development theories and our shared passions are moments I truly cherish.

What does ISS mean to you now? ISS remains a cornerstone in my journey. It gave me the tools to analyse, question and design development interventions that are practical, inclusive and transformative. It shaped not just my career, but also my voice as a woman from the Global South determined to make lasting change.

Study programme Politics of Alternative Development Studies

Year of graduation 1999

Country of origin Costa Rica

Current occupation Executive Director at NTT Data

What made your time at ISS special? Everything! The mix of cultures, the different ways of thinking, and how ISS constantly challenged me to see things from new perspectives, that’s what made it so special.

What is your best memory of ISS? The parties at Dorus Hall, and the poetry and music evenings, were unforgettable. People stood up to share poetry in all languages! We danced to music from around the world, shared stories and talked about life late into the night.

What does ISS mean to you now? ISS was a window I chose to open and I’ve never seen the world, from a social justice perspective, the same since. ISS also means my family, as I met my Dutch husband during this period. It also means very close friends who are still an important part of my life.

Read more about Tatiana's life and career after ISS.

Study programme Human rights, Development and Social Justice specialisation

Year of graduation 2007

Country of origin Japan

Current occupation Senior Programme Coordinator, Institute for Global Environmental Strategies based in Japan

What made your time at ISS special? From the very beginning, ISS was special because I made friends with people from many different countries, cultures and backgrounds.

What is your best memory of ISS? There was a bar next to ISS called Prince de Tavernais, where we spent time together and socialised after classes. Beyond that, ISS organised activities like Sports Day and International Day, which strengthened our community.

What does ISS mean to you now? ISS remains the foundation of my career, education, and life. I learnt so much, both inside and outside the classroom. I also still keep in touch with many of my batchmates. We continue to share ideas and experiences, which is something I truly treasure.

Listen to Masashi talk about his time at ISS

Study programme Universalising Socio-Economic Security for the Poor - Post Graduate Diploma

Year of graduation 2005

Country of origin Sri Lanka

Current occupation Professor in Economics, Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka and Global Fellow, Habib University of Pakistan

What made your time at ISS special? ISS sparked my interest in development studies, particularly in the areas of poverty and inequality. This inspiration shaped my entire career, leading me to pursue two master's degrees and a PhD focused on these critical issues. It also guided me towards a fulfilling path of teaching economics within the broader social and environmental context.

What is your best memory of ISS? My most cherished memory at ISS is the International Food Festival. It was a beautiful celebration where we came together as one family, sharing our diverse cultures and savouring the unique flavours of cuisines from around the world.

What does ISS mean to you now? A place where humanity takes centre stage. It is a vibrant hub of international intellectuals dedicated to nurturing future leaders who are genuinely committed to addressing global challenges across environmental, social and economic spheres.