BI Awards prestigious prize to five outstanding alumni

The prize is awarded to former BI students for outstanding engagement, leadership, and voluntary contributions to society.

"Throughout BI’s history, countless alumni have made a significant impact on Norwegian society and business. This award is an important recognition of individuals who have excelled, shared knowledge, or contributed voluntarily for the betterment of society," says Karen Spens, President of BI Norwegian Business School.

About the Winners:

Susana Meza Remar, Distinguished Alumni

Susana Meza Remar, CEO of Charge AS, received the Distinguished Alumni Award for her leadership in promoting diversity, inclusion, and entrepreneurship. Under her guidance, Charge has supported 64 immigrant entrepreneurs and helped establish 33 new companies in Norway, with 53% of participants being female entrepreneurs. Across three incubator programs from 2022 to 2023, 95% of participants reported strengthened professional networks, and 75% felt more integrated into society. Charge’s influence now extends beyond Norway, with programs across the Nordics and the Baltics promoting social inclusion and job creation for immigrant entrepreneurs.

Ann-Kathrin Behringer, Young Alumni, Oslo

Ann-Kathrin Behringer received the Young Alumni Award for her achievements in sustainable finance and her leadership in asset management. She holds a double master’s degree in finance from BI. Ann-Kathrin quickly rose through the ranks at DWS, where, as one of the youngest portfolio managers, she managed €500 million in assets, focusing on ESG-driven portfolios. Now at Ultramarin, she is responsible for establishing new AI-driven ESG portfolios, overseeing everything from fund structure to client relations and asset management. Ann-Kathrin has received international recognition, including the Rising Talent award from Fondsfrauen. She has demonstrated her expertise in quantitative asset management with published ESG research in the Journal of Impact and ESG Investing. 

Lasse Gjellestad, Young Alumni, Bergen

Lasse Gjellestad received the Young Alumni Award for his dedication and perseverance in entrepreneurship. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree in International Management at BI, he founded a company offering marketing and web services and took on leadership roles in two other startups. Lasse has consistently worked hard, maintaining high grades while remaining active in the school environment.

Sigurd Overskott, Young Alumni, Trondheim

Sigurd Overskott received the Young Alumni Award for his dedication and contributions to the Sulland Group, where he became the youngest member of the management team as a brand manager. He studied PR and Marketing Communication at BI Trondheim. Sigurd began building his personal brand during his studies, and the choices he made have been important in his current role at Norway’s largest privately-owned automotive group. His commitment and drive started during his internship with Sulland, where he was recognized for his creativity and contributions. He has a deep passion for the industry and has helped drive innovation within the company and the automotive industry.

Sanjin Damjanovic, Young Alumni, Stavanger

Sanjin Damjanovic received the Young Alumni Award for his ability to inspire and motivate others through his broad engagement in the student community. Sanjin holds a bachelor’s degree in business from BI. He distinguished himself as an intern at both Sparebank 1 and DNB. He is a familiar face for many at BI Stavanger, where he has shown his commitment through the student organization BISO and as a student representative on BI’s board.