Meet the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 International Chief Experts: Tanus Saab 

In this new interview, meet Tanus Saab, a Brazilian expert in floristry, architecture, and landscape design, who discovered his passion in his family’s flower shop. Since 2007, he has led his own company specializing in event decoration and landscaping. With a strong educational background and extensive experience, Tanus has taught at the Brazilian School of Floral Art and excelled in floral design competitions. As Chief Expert for WorldSkills Lyon 2024, he brings significant experience from previous WorldSkills Competitions in São Paulo, Abu Dhabi, Kazan, and Helsinki, where he served as Expert and Chief Expert. 

Can you tell us about your career path and what led you to become Chief Expert at WorldSkills? 

In 2015, Brazil hosted the WorldSkills Competition in the city of São Paulo. It was the first time we participated in the Floristry Skill and I received an invitation to train our first competitor and become my country’s Expert. I am very grateful for this invitation because getting to know WorldSkills and all the people who participate in this professional competition significantly contributed to my development with international standards as a florist and as a teacher. Learning and exchanging knowledge is very motivating. After participating in two more editions in Abu Dhabi in 2017 and in Kazan in 2019, I thought it was time to contribute and share my experience more intensely.  

I applied to be Chief Expert and I am very happy to be in my second edition in this position, with a group of Experts with distinct talents from different parts of the world. The exchange of knowledge and the friendship we have built are incredible but what enchants me the most is being able, in each edition, to see the talent and passion of our Competitors. Seeing the dedication and creativity of our Competitors is an inspiration to our flower industry. 

As Chief Expert, what are your main responsibilities and how do you contribute to the preparation of WorldSkills Lyon 2024? 

I believe my biggest responsibility is to offer an organized, fair, and safe competition for all participants. Another very important point is to document, register, and recognize the best practices, ensuring that this international knowledge reaches as many schools and students worldwide as possible. Additionally, it is essential to promote the exchange of experiences between Experts and Competitors, fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation. In each edition, the dedication and passion of the Competitors inspire us to raise the standards of our industry and to train increasingly skilled and creative professionals.  

The ultimate goal is to strengthen the global community of florists, contributing to professional development and technical excellence worldwide. 

What have been your most memorable experiences at WorldSkills, and what moments have particularly inspired or impacted you? 

I believe I will never forget my first participation (WorldSkills São Paulo 2015). The vibrant energy of the event, the dedication of the Competitors, and the atmosphere of celebrating talent and excellence create a unique experience. Each edition of the WorldSkills Competition reinforces the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the spirit of a global competition. These moments not only mark the careers of the Competitors but also inspire everyone involved to constantly seek improvement and innovation in their respective fields. Being part of this journey, from the preparations to the climax during the medal ceremony, is an honor and a source of continuous motivation. WorldSkills is not just a competition; it is a celebration of human potential and the transformative power of education and vocational training. 

How do you perceive the evolution of skills and professions over the years, and what do you consider to be the key skills for future professionals? 

Throughout my professional journey, I’ve witnessed significant evolution in skills and professions, primarily fueled by market changes. Reflecting on this transformation, I’ve discovered five key skills that I believe future professionals must possess:  

Adaptability: The capacity to acquire new skills and adjust to evolving environments. 

Problem-Solving: The ability to think creatively and devise innovative solutions.  

Collaboration: Effective communication, empathy, and teamwork.  

Technical Expertise: Proficiency not only in core principles but also in staying abreast of the latest advancements and best practices in one’s field.  

Sustainability Awareness: Incorporating sustainable practices into work and developing eco-friendly solutions. 

What impact do you think WorldSkills Competitions have on young Competitors? 

Dreaming to be better every day and becoming a reference in your country is essential. Dreaming bigger is knowing that the world is full of opportunities and discoveries. WorldSkills is a unique experience, but it is certainly just the beginning of a beautiful journey for each Competitor. The Competition allows for professional and personal growth, developing fundamental skills for successful careers. Participating in WorldSkills is not only an honor but also a great responsibility because each Competitor carries with them the potential to inspire and transform the industry in their country and the world. By investing in their growth and continuous learning, each Competitor contributes to raising the standards of excellence and innovation in the field of floristry.  

WorldSkills provides the perfect platform for these talents to flourish, creating a global network of dedicated professionals passionate about what they do.