Lionel Panhéleux-Payet

Conseiller Principal d'Education
I was born and raised in Paris, and throughout my education, I developed a growing interest in both youth work and education.
After completing a science-focused high school diploma, I earned a two-year degree in Social and Community Animation from Paris Descartes University, followed by a professional Bachelor’s degree in Ecotourism and Responsible Tourism.
Alongside my university studies, I became actively involved in youth work, particularly with the Scouts and Guides of France. I hold the BAFD (Director of Youth Camps Certification) and have also worked as a BAFA (Youth Activity Leader) trainer.
A nature enthusiast, I love making the most of the surrounding mountains—whether hiking, cycling, or skiing—with my family or while leading groups of young people. I’m also passionate about exploring the world and had the amazing opportunity to travel extensively during a year-long round-the-world trip with my wife.
After several years working as a community youth leader with a wide range of audiences and organizations, I felt the desire to move closer to the field of education. I wanted to be more directly involved with young people in a school setting and contribute to the broader discussions around the future and challenges of education. To take on this new chapter, I became a Conseiller Principal d’Éducation (Senior Education Advisor) at a secondary school in Annecy in 2019.
This role has been incredibly enriching—filled with valuable learning experiences and meaningful encounters. It has allowed me to grow my skills in student support, educational project development, and school life management. I truly love this dynamic and impactful profession, which I would sum up as creating a safe and supportive environment that fosters both academic success and personal growth.
In recent years, I’ve spent my summers organizing and leading international travel programs for teenagers, with a strong focus on sustainability. Guiding young people as they discover the world with curiosity and kindness is, to me, an endlessly rewarding experience.