Out on the field, ten medals, and back at the Belgium House, some tempting propositions. While it would be tempting to rest on one’s laurels, that would be tantamount to ignoring the three core lessons of these 2024 Olympic Games: the importance of mental fortitude, the value of teamwork, and the drive to go beyond one’s limits. Or, as we say in the business world, the need for long-term strategy and vision, the willingness to build on human talent, and the importance of cultural diversity.

The first thing that springs to mind is sports-related companies, always so innovative and cutting-edge, such as EVS, Equicty, Myocène, Bounce, Boogle. But let’s not forget the video-game sector, which has seen incredible creative talent with the likes of Fishing Cactus and Fire Falcom. And our Business Awards 2024 are also honouring Dream Donuts, Telix, N-SIDE, and Transurb. These companies certainly have the support of the public sector, but their success lies above all in the determination shown by their managers, who have turned them into true flagships of determination, resilience, and openness to the world.

Sometimes, it’s when you’re putting in the most effort that you start taking off. And if you fall a bit short, just look to these new Venus de Milo, an ode to the paralympic games, or think of Victor Borge’s famous quote—also a nod to the Liège International Comedy Film Festival—“Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.”

Welcome back to earth, everyone, and let’s keep our eyes on the stars.

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