A Legacy of Leadership: José Antonio Sáez Reflects on EYP’s Early Days in Spain

In this alumni feature, we reconnect with José Antonio Sáez, former President of EYP Spain (1994–1998), whose leadership played a pivotal role in establishing the organisation’s presence in the country. We had the pleasure of meeting him again during the Friends of EYP gathering at the 103rd International Session, where he shared reflections on the early days of EYP Spain and the lasting impact of the organisation. From founding the National Committee to welcoming the future King of Spain as an honorary member, José Antonio contributed to some of EYP Spain’s earliest milestones. Today, he leads a business group as CEO, bringing with him a global career and values shaped through youth engagement in Europe.

Could you tell us a bit about yourself, what you do now, and when your first and last EYP sessions were?

“My name is Jose Antonio Saez, and I had the honour of serving as President of the Spanish National Committee of the European Youth Parliament from its foundation in October 1994 until 1998. I was selected and appointed through the International Committee, as at that time the Spanish Ministry of Education was responsible for choosing the schools that represented Spain in EYP.
During those years, I organised the Barcelona 1997 and Granada 1998 sessions, as well as several related initiatives, including the Fontainebleau Foundation meetings at Oxford University, in which many EYPers participated.
It is also worth recalling that His Royal Highness, then Prince of Asturias and now King Felipe VI of Spain, graciously agreed to become an Honorary Member of EYP Spain during that period.”

What was your favourite part of taking part in the EYP Reunion in Málaga?

For me, Málaga was a moment of reconnecting with a past that remains very present, almost like stepping into a “Back to the Future” moment. The enthusiasm, the values, and the commitment of young Europeans to building a united, fraternal, and forward-looking Europe are still there. Seeing that same sense of purpose and willingness to share was incredibly inspiring.

What do you think has changed in EYP since your time as an active member? What impression did you get from the reunion in Málaga or from following our social media?

EYP has evolved into a far more structured and global organisation, with broader impact and greater professionalisation in many aspects. Yet its essence remains unchanged such the ability to bring together young people who genuinely want to contribute to Europe.
From the reunion and from what I see online, there is now a stronger emphasis on inclusion, diversity, and long-term alumni engagement, which I find very positive.

How has EYP influenced you personally or professionally?

EYP profoundly shapes you because it opens your eyes to a world much larger than your own home. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, encouraging you to seek opportunities, embrace new cultures, and enrich both your professional and personal life.
That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career, from working in multiple countries to taking on new leadership roles. It gave me confidence, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for international cooperation. My first professional steps in Europe took me to Italy, Germany, the UK, and Slovakia. Later on, after spending more than a decade working abroad in Central America, Colombia, and the Middle East on construction, energy, and even social development projects, I returned to Spain, where I currently serve as the CEO of a business group.

Is there an experience or lesson from EYP that still stays with you today?

The strongest lesson is that values matter: openness, respect, curiosity, and the willingness to understand others. These values guided not only my professional work but also many of the friendships I formed, which continue to this day.
The sense of shared purpose that EYP instilled remains a reference point throughout my life.

Is there anything you would like to share with young people who are now starting their EYP journey?

I would tell them that EYP is an extraordinary opportunity, embrace it fully, stay curious, and dare to step outside your comfort zone. The connections you make and the values you develop will accompany you for decades. Many of the friends I made through EYP went on to lead companies, work in government, or become Members of the European Parliament; but above all, they remained committed, thoughtful citizens.

EYP is not just an experience; it is a mindset that stays with you.