Jean-Claude (JC) Razel is an educator, entrepreneur, and mountain guide with over 30 years of experience at the intersection of adventure tourism and ecological transition. Passionate about teaching and inspiring change, he invites others to face uncertainty with simplicity and purpose. His work is fueled by a deep respect for the natural world and a belief that hope is stronger than fear. When others might hesitate or retreat, he inspires action—guiding people to move forward with hope, and a renewed sense of possibility.

In 1997, he founded the company Alaya in Brazil, inspired by the country’s landscapes and the legacy of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. Today, Alaya is recognized as a national leader in sustainable adventure travel and is proudly certified ISO for safety management and as a B Corporation. Its efforts have contributed to the planting of 15,000 trees, the training of 200 local youth for their first professional roles, and the growth of a team of 100 employees.

JC’s approach is rooted in practice. From coaching Brazil’s national rafting team to six world titles to facilitating learning in Europe’s top business schools, he has consistently worked to bridge experience with education. Since 2013, his focus has shifted toward teaching and training, with an emphasis on how individuals and communities learn—and unlearn—in times of ecological and social transformation.

He has led programs for the ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association) in countries including Peru, Mexico, Iceland, Canada, Bosnia, Armenia, Nepal, Jordan, Japan, and Sweden. His sessions have evolved from technical tourism training to immersive explorations of planetary boundaries, regenerative thinking, and systems change.

JC currently teaches ecological transition at top European institutions such as HEC ESCP EM Normandie. His courses emphasize participatory learning, systems thinking, and practical engagement—designed to equip students and professionals with the tools to respond to ecological and social challenges with clarity and care.

Outside the classroom, he continues to guide in the Alps and create content that supports environmental awareness and collective imagination. His books, music, and the Brazilian YouTube channel Mundo de Amanhã offer accessible entry points into ecological and social transition—infused with humility, humor, and hope.

Across all endeavors, his work is driven by a clear purpose: to help humans to reconnect with themselves, the others around and with nature.

The session Jean-Claude crafted for us created a true alchemy between the speakers—including himself—the central theme, and the audience.
Thank you, Jean-Claude!

Marie LEVAUX, President
VERDIR: Collective of Nursery Growers and Horticulturists