Giulio Giorgi, a proud and talented alumnus of the United World Colleges Red Cross Nordic (UWC RCN), embraced the spirit of global citizenship and community service that defines the UWC movement. His journey from a UWC student to a landscape architect highlights the lasting influence of the UWC experience on his personal and professional life.

Recently, Giulio has been collaborating with World Child Cancer, an organisation dedicated to providing treatment for children with cancer in middle and low-income countries. Together, they created the World Child Cancer Nurturing Garden, which has won the prestigious RHS award at the Chelsea Flower Show. This garden is a stunning blend of technology, sustainability, and homage to the cultural heritage of Sub-Saharan gardens.

The materials used in the garden are fully sustainable, with no metal or concrete, and primarily feature clay blocks. This choice demonstrates that these gardens can be created in many countries using simple, basic materials. Additionally, the plants were chosen with great care; all are resilient, symbolising hope and courage for children undergoing cancer treatment and their families.

Moreover, the garden provides a sensory experience, allowing those with impaired vision to fully embrace the sensation of the garden. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can find solace and connection within the garden’s nurturing environment. Giulio emphasises the importance of maintaining the UWC connections made beyond the UWC campus. He encourages current students and alumni to keep their networks alive, stressing that the shared values and learning experiences at UWC form a strong foundation for lifelong relationships. Reflecting on alumni gatherings, Giulio shares the joy of reuniting with former classmates, where the energy and camaraderie feel as vibrant as ever, despite the passage of time.

Recognizing the privilege of his UWC education, Giulio is committed to giving back in various ways. He believes there is no single path to support the UWC movement, as each alumnus brings unique skills and backgrounds. Giulio’s contributions range from staying engaged with national committees in Italy and France to offering his expertise in landscape architecture to support UWC initiatives. He actively participates in alumni networks and is always ready to help with fundraising, student recruitment, and spreading the word about UWC.

Giulio Giorgi’s story shows the long lasting values that are nurtured during the UWC experience. During the conversation Giulio mentioned that World Child Cancer Nurturing Garden represents resilience and practice of care. Similarly, his commitment to nurturing connections, giving back, and supporting future generations of UWC students supports the core values of the UWC movement. As he continues to inspire and engage with the UWC community, Giulio is an example of the positive impact that UWC alumni can have on the world.