How to seize life’s chances
How to seize life’s chances
Inspirational Stories

Tue. April 15, 6:30PM

How to seize life’s chances

An intergenerational evening of opportunity and exchange.

The first seats are available now.

The remaining seats will be released on March 28 at 6pm. 


This event, in partnership with Play4Peace, a nonprofit fostering social inclusion through sports, education, and mentorship, brings together its young participants with TheMerode members for an evening of exchange and networking.


Psychology professor Philippe Gabilliet and journalist Maryam Benayad will explore the nature of luck - what it means, how to turn the unexpected into opportunity, and why optimism is key to success. They will be joined by tax technology leader Nora Bafrouri and entrepreneur Darby Lubamba, who will share their inspiring personal stories of turning opportunities into success. 


After the conversation, small-group discussions will provide a platform for members and the Play4Peace participants to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships. Join us for an inspiring conversation and the chance to make a real impact!


About our partner Play4Peace:

Play4Peace's mission is to foster social inclusion by supporting disadvantaged youth, aged 16 to 28, in their personal and professional development through sport, education, and mentoring.


  • Sport as a catalyst for growth – they provide free access to ​structured sports programs (golf, boxing, rugby, football, and bowling) to help young people develop discipline, resilience, and ​mental strength.
  • ​Education & personal development – Through workshops, coaching, and inspirational talks, they equip young people with essential skills for their academic and professional success.
  • Mentoring & networking – They connect young talents with ​mentors from various industries, offering them guidance and new ​perspectives for their educational and career paths.

Together, let's break barriers and build a future where every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

speaker

Philippe Gabilliet

Philippe Gabilliet is Professor of Leadership at ESCP Business school. Author and speaker, he specialises on the themes of optimism, luck, audacity, confidence and life change. He is the author of several books, including Éloge de la Chance (J’ai lu, 2016), Éloge de l'optimisme (Saint-Simon, 2010), Les Conduites d'anticipation (L'Harmattan, 2008) and Se former soi-même (ESF, 1997).

speaker

Nora Bafrouri

Nora Bafrouri has been the Global Leader for Indirect Taxes and Technology at Trane Technologies since 2017. She also serves as the Women's Network Enterprise Co-chair and Corporate Social Responsibility Lead for Belgium. Before Trane Technologies, she worked in the Tax departments at Deloitte and EY.

speaker

Darby Lubamba

Darby Lubamba is a consultant specialising in communications strategy. He helps companies and managers to develop a relevant brand image in the marketplace.

moderator

Maryam Benayad

Maryam Benayad, is a journalist for the Belgium service of La Libre Belgique, trained at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in journalism and communication. Also a criminologist, Maryam works mainly on Justice/Police issues, she is also a radio and TV columnist and a debate moderator.
Start
Tue. April 15, 6:30PM
End
Tue. April 15, 9:30PM
Format
TheMerode Talks
Language
French (BE) / Français (BE)
Guest allowed?
No

Address

Event
Place Poelaert, 6
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Parking
Parking Poelaert, Place Poelaert 1000 Brussels

Detailed programme

Welcome
Tue. April 15, 6:30PM
Conversation
Tue. April 15, 7:00PM
Group discussion
Tue. April 15, 8:00PM
Networking
Tue. April 15, 8:45PM
End
Tue. April 15, 9:30PM

Past Event