"New generations must take an active role and engage in the city's development" by Andrea Puga
We interviewed Andrea Puga Rabassó, participant of Barcelona Global's leadership and city program, Barcelona 2040. She currently works in Puig's Corporate Controlling department as Senior FP&A Controller, in charge of the global business divisions from Barcelona Headquarters.
What do you expect from the Barcelona of 2040?
I aspire to see a Barcelona that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and overall social and economic development. Barcelona is a global benchmark, and for that reason, we must continue working to address the challenges that have emerged in recent years and those that lie ahead. I hope Barcelona can strike a balance between remaining a city that attracts impactful talent while ensuring the well-being and safety of its residents.
With which city would you compare Barcelona to?
If you ask me, a Barcelona lover, I would say that Barcelona is unique. However, there are cities with aspects and challenges similar to those of Barcelona, such as Milan, which shares the housing challenge. I also see synergies with Berlin, as an international city that attracts talent and innovation, and with Amsterdam, for its strong commitment to sustainable mobility within the city and its rich cultural offering.
What model of city do you think Barcelona should be like?
Barcelona could look to cities like Copenhagen or Oslo, which have been working for years on their urban fabric to ensure sustainability and city development. Other interesting models might be Boston and San Francisco, which stand out for their strong focus on scientific research, creating ecosystems of innovation and entrepreneurship.
What is the main challenge Barcelona must address in the coming years?
Housing, tourism, and mobility are, in my view, the main challenges Barcelona faces. We need policies that ensure a balance between the city's economic development and the social well-being of its citizens. Efficient and effective management of these key challenges will be crucial for Barcelona's future in 2040. To achieve this, it is essential for administrations and organizations to coordinate and foster greater public-private collaboration in their management.
What do you think should be the role of the new generations and their involvement in the development of the city?
New generations must take an active role and engage in the city's development from every perspective. It is in our hands to work towards building the Barcelona of the future, and to achieve this, it is essential to participate in projects, initiatives, and organizations dedicated to the city's progress.
What business sectors do you think Barcelona needs to focus on?
The industrial sector has always played a significant role in Barcelona, as it was one of the key drivers of economic growth during the 19th and 20th centuries. Barcelona 2040 should prioritize this sector by focusing on digital transformation to enhance processes and digital capabilities while also promoting the sector's sustainable development.
Boosting this sector will not only strengthen the companies within it but also enhance Barcelona's international brand and improve the city's global competitiveness.
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