Axelle Bodwell MSc

The course

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School (UEBS)?

I chose to study at UEBS because I believed it would provide me with the essential knowledge and skills to enable me to advocate for and challenge governments to increase mitigation measures, investment in clean energy and promotion of green financing.

The Climate Change Finance and Investment (CCFI) programme's comprehensive curriculum and focus on both government and private sector perspectives perfectly aligned with my aspirations. I aimed to become a more effective climate negotiator, equipped to represent my country in international forums. I wanted to empower Seychelles with the right resources to combat climate change effectively at both international and national levels.

What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?

I was particularly attracted to the CCFI degree programme at the University of Edinburgh Business School due to the comprehensive approach to climate finance and climate change. The opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field, who are not only renowned academics, but also practitioners with extensive experience in both government and private sectors, provided a rich and diverse learning environment.

The course content offered a unique blend of public and private sector perspectives, ensuring a holistic understanding of climate finance and equipping me with the skills to address complex climate-related financial issues. Additionally, the University's strong reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to tackling global challenges were significant factors in my decision.

Your career

Can you tell us about your career before and after graduating?

Before graduating, I worked at the Ministry of Finance, where I gained valuable experience in financial management and analysis.

Alongside my professional role, I actively volunteered in various climate change and sustainable development initiatives, which provided me with field experience and a robust understanding of these critical areas.

Despite Seychelles having many experts in finance and numerous professionals in climate change, there is a notable gap in individuals specialised in both fields simultaneously. This intersection of climate change and finance fuels my passion and drive to make a positive impact on my community.

After graduating, I plan to leverage the comprehensive knowledge and skills I have acquired to transition into an advisory role within the climate change field, aiming to influence policy and drive sustainable initiatives that benefit Seychelles and other Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

My degree prepared me to become Seychelles' first climate finance advisor.

How did your degree prepare you for your career?

My degree has thoroughly prepared me to become Seychelles' first climate finance advisor, a role where I will oversee and provide guidance on financial allocations for all climate-related projects.

The comprehensive knowledge acquired through the programme has equipped me with the expertise to develop innovative financial products, such as carbon trading mechanisms, and explore external financing options, including bonds tailored for initiatives like the coastal management plan. This strategic approach will ensure that safeguarding my island is not solely reliant on external funding.

Moreover, the programme has provided me with a deep understanding of climate policy development. I will leverage this expertise to create climate policies specifically tailored to the unique needs and challenges of Seychelles, ensuring effective and sustainable mitigation and adaptation strategies that are aligned with our nationally determined contributions and other international commitments. This dual focus on finance and policy will be crucial in driving comprehensive and impactful climate action in my country.

Masters of Change

What notable changes has your degree enabled you to make in your professional or personal life?

When I first arrived at the University, I was determined to transition into the climate finance sector, but I was uncertain about the specific path I would take or how I could effectively contribute to my country, Seychelles. Now, after completing my course, the picture is much clearer. I have acquired a wealth of knowledge and developed strong research skills, enabling me to apply what I have learned to the context of Seychelles and other SIDS. The CCFI programme has significantly enhanced my ability to analyse and address climate finance challenges relevant to these regions.

Moreover, my confidence in professional settings has grown remarkably. I have honed my leadership abilities, allowing me to take on more responsibility and lead projects with a clear vision. My interpersonal communication skills have improved, facilitating better collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders. Additionally, I have become more adept at public speaking, which is crucial for advocating climate finance initiatives and influencing policy decisions.

On a personal level, the course has provided me with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. I now have a clear understanding of how I can make a meaningful impact in the climate finance sector, particularly in supporting the sustainable development of Seychelles and other SIDS. This clarity has made me more ambitious and determined to achieve my goals.

What are the changes you have been able to make in your chosen field, of which you are most proud?

The changes I have been able to make in my chosen field, of which I am most proud, include being the first person from Seychelles with a background in climate finance. Through my dissertation, I began to identify and propose innovative solutions to help my country tackle climate change effectively. My work also contributes valuable literature to the renewable energy sector in African SIDS, filling a crucial gap in research and knowledge.

How did your studies at the Business School help you to make those changes?

My studies at the Business School played a pivotal role in enabling me to make significant changes in the field of climate finance.

The programme exposed me to the multifaceted aspects of climate finance, providing a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical dimensions. The guest speakers from both government and private sectors were extremely insightful and inspiring, offering real-world perspectives which enriched my learning experience. The lecturers consistently updated their resources to reflect current real-life changes, ensuring that our education was relevant and up-to-date.

Additionally, through the Edinburgh Award in Global Employability, I had the privilege of working with an amazing coach who guided and supported me in achieving my career aspirations.

What key things that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

One of the most valuable lessons was the self-management and self-reflection tips I gained through the Edinburgh Award in Global Employability. These tools have been instrumental in helping me tackle my ambitions without feeling overworked. They taught me how to effectively prioritise my tasks, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and continuously reflect on my progress to stay aligned with my goals.

Course highlights and advice

What are your best memories on the programme?

One of the standout moments during my programme was in June 2024, when I was selected to represent the University of Edinburgh at the SB60 conference in Bonn, Germany. This incredible opportunity allowed me to follow pre-COP negotiations between countries and gain first-hand exposure to international climate discussions. It was a profound experience to witness and understand the intricacies of climate policy-making at a global level.

Additionally, I had the honour of sitting on a panel alongside U7+ representatives, where we discussed the crucial role of higher education in including young people in multilateral dialogues.

What one piece of advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?

One piece of advice I would give is to actively seek out and engage with real-world experiences and opportunities beyond the classroom. While academic knowledge is crucial, the practical application of that knowledge through internships, volunteer work, and networking can significantly enhance your understanding and readiness for your career. These experiences will not only help you build valuable skills and connections but also provide insights into your field that can shape your professional journey. Stay curious, be proactive in pursuing opportunities that align with your interests, and remain open to learning from diverse experiences.