Sophie grew up in a family of engineers - both her father and grandfather worked in engineering, and pursuing a technical career felt like the natural, expected path. From a young age, she was fascinated by physics and maths and loved understanding how the world worked, though she also enjoyed writing, teaching and creative activities as hobbies.
At sixteen, Sophie discovered the concept of “sustainable development” - using resources in ways that protect the environment for future generations - and this idea resonated with her deeply. After her studies in France, she specialised in environmental engineering and renewable energy, eventually moving to the UK to complete an MPhil at the University of Cambridge and a PhD at Imperial College London in energy and environmental engineering.
“Your path doesn’t need to be conventional to be meaningful.”
Sophie’s career then took her to major international organisations, including the World Bank and the European Investment Bank, where she worked as a Senior Energy Specialist for over a decade, helping fund and shape important energy projects around the world.
Over time, Sophie realised that while technical expertise is essential, understanding people - their emotions, motivations and wellbeing - is just as important. This realisation led her to a new chapter: she is now studying for a further Master’s degree in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, and founded her own coaching business, Dr Sophie Coaching.