At the GCSP, through our Global Fellowship Initiative, we strive to inspire, prepare and support a multidisciplinary, multicultural and multigenerational group of talented individuals in the field of peace and security. We offer spaces and resources that support research, foster creativity and collaboration, and expand networks. Hear from two previous Executive-in-Residence Fellows on their experience with the GFI:

Maricela Muñoz
Director, Strategic Partnerships at GESDA

Back in the Spring of 2021 I was concluding my post as a senior diplomat in Geneva for the government of Costa Rica. After an immensely rich experience in one of the most demanding yet fulfilling multilateral hubs, I wanted to take the time to reflect and further expand my expertise and network in the field of emerging technologies, security and policy making. That profound desire matched the carefully curated program of the GCSP Global Fellowship Initiative.

Looking back, I can only underscore how life-changing and transformative that opportunity was. The GFI community is composed of the most extraordinary, accomplished and generous colleagues, who not only share their knowledge and networks but also their passion and commitment to better the world.

My creativity spanned amidst the collective contributions and the eye-opening conversations that we had on a regular basis. I had the best co-hort of mentors and cultivated leaders guiding me during this transitional period of my career, always offering their thoughtful and sharp-witted comments, be it during an onsite content gathering or at a virtual coffee.

I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to identify their next step in their professional path, who dreams with the extraordinay and wants to contribute to society in new ways, exploring visionary ideas and concepts. I guarantee you will be touched by the spark of knowledge, innovation and friendship of the most amazing professional community of colleagues at the GCSP GFI.

Giles Enticknap
British High Commissioner to the Republic of Botswana

A former Vice President, a philanthropist, an entrepreneur, a speechwriter, a reinsurance specialist, and a British High Commissioner in waiting might seem like an unlikely grouping (there was even a part time cartoonist!). However, we all shared a curiosity and a commitment to understanding and addressing complex global security challenges.

Diversity of thought and background is at the heart of what the GCSP does. Over the past three months, I have had the privilege of serving as an Executive-in-Residence at the GCSP as part of the preparation for my next diplomatic role. I’ve done this alongside a mix of highly skilled professionals from around the globe. This was a part-time hybrid engagement, allowing me to split my time between London and Geneva alongside other work commitments.

As a hub of international diplomacy and security expertise, the GCSP has provided an unparalleled environment to deepen my understanding of global security dynamics. Building on my experience of the New Issues in Security Course in 2023, my time on the fellowship programme has offered an atmosphere that radiates creativity, innovation, and the energy that emerges when diverse ideas, perspectives, and experiences converge.

My time at the GCSP has been both reflective and action-oriented in equal measure. From the comfort of the fellows' office, I encountered a unique blend of academic rigor, practical insights, and cultural enrichment. The fellowship has enabled me to focus on three key objectives: 

• Exploring the concept of ‘modern partnerships’: Engaging with professionals across various sectors helped me gain new insights and view issues from different angles. This has broadened my understanding in preparation for my next role in Botswana, where deepening partnerships based on mutual respect will be at the core of my work.
• Studying Strategy: Leveraging the wealth of research and expertise available at GCSP, I delved into the process of strategy formulation. This will undoubtedly be of great service as I step into a new leadership role.
• Building Networks: At GCSP, relationships are at the core of everything. Building new networks has allowed me to gather valuable insights and information. These connections will undoubtedly support my future endeavours and contribute to my professional growth. 

Throughout this journey, I have been supported by the brilliant staff of the GCSP. I look forward to continuing my relationship with the GCSP in our collective endeavour to advance global peace and security.