Gisma Celebrates Alumni Driving Sustainable and Social Impact – A Night of Inspiration, Celebration, and Connection
On 5 September 2025, the Berlin campus of Gisma University of Applied Sciences lit up with excitement as alumni, faculty, and special guests reunited for the much-anticipated Alumni mmet-up 2025. The evening was a true celebration of community an opportunity to reconnect, reflect on shared journeys, and reignite the sense of belonging that unites the Gisma family.
The night began with a warm welcome from Eloise, Head of Careers, whose words highlighted the vital role that alumni play in shaping the professional pathways of current students. She was followed by Julian, CEO of Gisma, who delivered an inspiring opening address about the university’s journey and vision for the future. Together, their remarks set the perfect tone for an evening of reflection, celebration, and forward-looking energy.
From there, the programme unfolded with a series of highlights that underscored the global impact of Gisma alumni. The Alumni Spotlight Panel brought three outstanding graduates to the stage: Abdullah Haj Kasem, strategic transformation expert, entrepreneur, and Gisma lecturer; Hari Surya, Senior Global Key Account Manager at Huhtamaki; and Mafalda Prisco, fintech product leader in banking, payroll, and equity management. Their stories offered candid insights into navigating international careers, building resilience, and creating impact in competitive industries.
The evening was elevated even further with the presence of Josh Berger CBE, one of the legendary figures behind the Harry Potter franchise and a true pioneer in the global creative industries. As Founder and Chairman of Battersea Entertainment, and with more than 30 years at Warner Bros. Discovery including as President of the Harry Potter Global Franchise Josh shared a masterclass in leadership, storytelling, and the creative vision that has shaped some of the world’s most iconic cultural moments. His reflections captivated the audience and left an indelible mark on the night.
Of course, the evening also celebrated alumni excellence. After weeks of open voting, the room erupted in applause as Pegah Fattahi was named Alumni of the Year 2025. Recognised for her pioneering work in driving data innovation at Remondis, Pegah embodies the ambition, creativity, and global outlook that define Gisma alumni. Her award was a proud moment not only for her but for the entire Gisma community.
As the formal programme closed, the energy shifted into something even more dynamic. Berlin-based DJ and live performer Ainthemachine took the stage, turning everyday objects into instruments and creating an electrifying music experience. What made it extraordinary was the way the audience became part of the performance clapping, singing, and adding rhythms of their own. The Berlin campus was filled with laughter, sound, and movement, transforming the evening into a collective celebration of creativity and connection.
The night ended with a lively networking reception, where alumni reconnected with classmates, shared stories of personal and professional growth, and forged new bonds for the future. The conversations, laughter, and renewed friendships captured exactly what this event was designed to achieve: a strong, supportive, and inspired alumni network.
The Alumni Kick-Off Session 2025 was far more than a gathering; it was a statement of identity and purpose for Gisma’s global community. With inspiring talks, unforgettable music, and the shared joy of togetherness, the evening perfectly embodied the theme of the year: Reconnect. Reflect. Reignite.