After moving to the Netherlands, Deepayan got involved with the Dutch National Alumni Association (NAA). He quickly became an active member, eventually joining the Events Committee, and has been volunteering ever since. For him, the experience has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally, as he’s stayed connected to the INSEAD community.
One of Deepayan’s favourite memories from his time as a volunteer was attending the global Alumni Volunteers Meeting (AVM) in May 2024 at the INSEAD campus in Fontainebleau. There, he had the chance to meet alumni representatives from across the world, all of whom shared the same commitment to giving back. It was a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences, and he even had the opportunity to present on how data and analytics can drive global impact in INSEAD’s alumni activities. But the meeting wasn’t all work. The event ended with a night of dinner, drinks, and dancing to 90s music, making it both meaningful and fun!
For Deepayan, volunteering isn’t just about supporting INSEAD—it’s also been a great way to grow. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” he says, quoting Mahatma Gandhi. Through volunteering, he’s been able to work on projects he’s passionate about, connect with like-minded alumni, and contribute to initiatives that support the school on a global scale. It’s had a big impact on him, both in terms of personal fulfilment and professional development.
One thing Deepayan really wants to emphasise is that volunteering doesn’t have to be a heavy commitment. Many young alumni are hesitant to get involved, thinking it’ll be too hard to manage alongside a full-time job. Deepayan’s keen to debunk that myth. “It’s not as time-consuming as people think,” he explains. In fact, volunteering has helped him develop important skills like stakeholder management and data analytics, expand his network, and even boost his career.
His advice to other young alumni? Just give it a go. “Get involved in the next INSEAD event near you, and experience the difference for yourself,” Deepayan says. “Who knows—it could be the start of something big!”
Deepayan’s story is a perfect example of how volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s also a chance to grow, meet new people, and discover new passions. For anyone considering it, Deepayan’s message is clear: take that first step and see where it leads. You might be surprised at what you get in return.
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