Held at the SSE's Aula and Atrium, the Sports & Business Night marked the launch of a dynamic partnership between the Center for Sports & Business, the Business Committee, and the Sports Committee (SASSE). The event provided a platform for networking, learning, and inspiration, focusing on how sports and business can complement each other in building successful careers. 

A night of insight and inspiration

The night's program featured two engaging panel discussions and a lively sports fair, creating an immersive experience for attendees. 

The evening kicked off with fika and a sports fair in the Atrium, where students had the opportunity to connect with various organizations and start-ups from the sports industry. Following this, the main program started in the Aula, where the audience was invited to two thought-provoking panel discussions that explored the synergies between sports and business. 

Introduction to the Center for Sports & Business

First off, Martin Carlsson-Wall, Research Director at the Center for Sports & Business, gave an introduction to the CSB, what it offers to the students at SSE, our activities, as well as the opportunities for career development in the world of sports. 

Panel 1: Learnings from sports for a successful (dual) career 

The first panel highlighted the powerful lessons sports can offer for building a successful professional career. It featured Andreas Kramer (Olympian and SSE student), Anna Laurell Nash (World Champion, Olympian, and Executive Director for the CSB) as well as Anton Dahlberg (2x Olympic Medalist and SSE alumni). They shared their insights on success factors in managing dual careers, as well as how to balance athletic and academic commitments. The panelists' insights underscored how the discipline and focus required in sports can translate into professional success, whether in the corporate world or beyond. 

From left to right: Martin Carlsson-Wall, Andreas Kramer, Anna Laurell Nash and Anton Dahlberg

Panel 2: A carreer combining sports and business

The second panel focused on professionals who have successfully combined their passion for sports with thriving business careers and their path to success. Speakers included: 

Johanna Hemming: Director of Marketing & Communication at the Swedish Olympic Committee. 

Johan Grundin: CEO of En Svensk Klassiker. 

Mathilda Hammarström: CEO and Founder of Floccs and an SSE alumna. 

Andjela Kusmuk: Founder & Managing Director of KKV, E-sports star, and former competitive swimmer. 

From left to right: Martin Carlsson-Wall, Johanna Hemming, Mathilda Hammarström, Johan Grundin and Andjela Kusmuk

One-on-one interview

Finally, Martin Carlsson-Wall rounded off the evening in the Aula with a one-on-one interview with Patrik Brenning, journalist, and author of "This is How We Win Again - Developing Talents and Swedish Sports", who offered his perspective on nurturing sports talent and the future of Swedish athletics.

Networking and future opportunities

After the conclusion of the official program, students were invited to continue networking during a relaxed mingle session in the Atrium. The sports fair offered additional opportunities to explore career paths and connections in the sports industry. Organizations that participated included Commercial Sports Media, the Swedish Olympic Committee, Bosön, the Swedish Hockey League, Floccs, Data Talks, Sparks Generation, Hammarby IF as well as the Swedish Football Federation.