«Barcelona should position itself on topics such as awareness, human relations, and ecology», by Sebastian Ross
Sebastian Ross is German, born in Cologne. He has built his professional career in startups and scaleups as a founder, executive, investor, advisor, and author. He moved to Barcelona 25 years ago and currently leads the IESE Business School’s School of Founders, where he supports the development of entrepreneurs from around the world. He is also the founder and emeritus chairman of Conscious Capitalism in Spain.
Why did you choose Barcelona?
I fell in love with Barcelona as an Erasmus student and returned with my then-girlfriend, now wife, Angie. That was 25 years ago. No matter what people say about Barcelona getting worse, for me this city still offers the best quality of life in the world. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. City rankings by The Economist and similars don't measure what truly matters to me.
What are the city’s strengths?
The privileged location between the sea and the mountains, being able to get around everywhere by bike, the beautiful architecture, and a rich cultural and business environment. IESE, where I work, is an incredible luxury because of the international thinkers and leaders who come through. Barcelona has it all, but it has stopped believing it.
Which aspects of the city need to be improved? How?
Greener, fewer cars. I love the new Consell de Cent street. Access to housing is an important issue; the city has to work for everyone. We need to optimize.
What do you expect from Barcelona in the coming years?
To feel again that pride of being a pioneering and inspiring city. Barcelona should position itself on topics such as awareness, human relations, and ecology, and move beyond the desire to be "independent". Nothing in this universe is truly independent. Let’s embrace interdependence and also consider the needs of others.
Which city do you consider to be your home city? What do you miss most?
Barcelona is my city. I miss very few things: the lush forests of Germany and a bit more civility, especially the respect for shared spaces. In that, we can learn from Northern European societies.
