An unforgettable experience at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024: A dream shared between Kenza Djaafer and Luis de la Cruz
Written by Kenza Djaafer, Student at our ESBS European Bachelor in sports Marketing and Event Management
These last few weeks have been the fulfilment of a dream we would never have dared to imagine possible. Participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was much more than just a professional mission; it was a life experience, a human adventure, and a unique moment shared with Luis de la Cruz, which made this experience even more exceptional.
We had the immense privilege of working at the “On Location” hospitality service, where our missions were at the height of the of the Olympic Games. From dawn, sometimes from 6 a.m. until sunset, we were there, ready to welcome the VIPs and offer them an unforgettable experience. Access control and ticketing, which required rigour and professionalism, were an essential part of our work. But that was not all. We were also responsible for managing guest placements and resolving disputes, delicate tasks that allowed us to develop our management and communication skills.
Working at such varied times allowed us to fully experience the event, to see Paris wake up and go to bed to the rhythm of the Games, to feel the energy of the city vibrate with each new day. We met extraordinary people, expanded our network exponentially and, above all, we had the opportunity to meet sports legends like Laure Manaudou, a moment that will remain engraved in our memories.
For us, as sports business students, this experience was more than rewarding. It allowed us to put our knowledge of the sports industry into practice, to perfect my English and Spanish, and to learn more about the world of sport at a global level every day.
Sharing this adventure with Luis, which is an integral part of my personal and professional life, was an additional happiness. Together, we were able to combine our skills and passions to meet the challenges facing us, and emerge stronger and more united.
What we learned during these Olympic Games in Paris is that we must seize all the professional opportunities that arise, especially in the field of sport. Having already lived the unforgettable experience of the World Cup in Qatar, I can say that each event of this magnitude transforms us, makes us grow and allows us to discover the world from a unique angle. These two experiences have allowed me to become another person, more confident, more open, and more determined than ever to succeed in this exciting field.
Today, we are proud to say that these Olympic Games marked the beginning of our career in sport in the most beautiful way. With this opportunity we were to be able to experience these Games, and we are grateful for every moment shared together and with all those who crossed our path during this event. I can’t wait to see where this adventure will take us, but one thing is certain: these Games will forever remain engraved in our hearts.
