
Amb. Prof. Dr. Stéphane Narcis,
Honorary Vice Chancellor of Pebble Hills University
Dear students,
With honour and pride, I step into the Honorary Vice-Chancellor (External Relations) role at Pebble Hills University. Life-changing opportunities come to you when you expect them. My dedication to learning, researching, and fostering global academic connections inspires meaningful change. This is evident in the world of academics.
First of all, let me introduce myself. I was born and raised on Réunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. My academic journey has been shaped by an ongoing curiosity about culture, media, and identity. For over a decade, I have worked in higher education, research, and global academic leadership, focusing on how film, communication, and cultural studies help us understand society and human interaction.
Academic Background
My educational path has taken me across multiple disciplines and prestigious institutions:
- PhD in Film Studies – Selinus University of Science and Literature
- Doctor of Letters (DLitt) & Postdoctoral Research (PDLitt) – California University FCE
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in European Studies – King’s College London
- Master of Arts (MA) in International Communication – University of Winchester
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Studies – University of Winchester
In addition to my academic credentials, I hold CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and CCT (Certified Civility Trainer), reflecting my passion for teaching, professional ethics, and cross-cultural communication.
Teaching, Research, and the Power of Storytelling
Throughout my career, I have found that education is not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about igniting curiosity, challenging perspectives, and creating space for critical discussions.
My Key Academic Contributions
Film & Representation – My research explores how ethnic minorities are portrayed in cinema and how these representations reflect and challenge societal norms. My publications have contributed to cinema, identity, and cultural narrative discussions.
Innovative Teaching – I strive to make learning engaging and thought-provoking, combining film, literature, and communication studies to help students think critically about media, race, and culture.
Mentorship & Leadership – As an educator and independent researcher, I take extreme pride in sharing my knowledge with the world. I tell emerging scholars to find their voices and perspectives in their academic and creative work.
Beyond Academia: A Commitment to Empowerment and Inclusion
My passion for education and social impact extends beyond the classroom. I believe in helping people build confidence, break barriers, and embrace their full potential.
- Author and Public Speaker – I have written books on communication, leadership, and self-development, helping individuals improve their public speaking, storytelling, and personal growth.
- Advocate & Life Coach – As a Zumba® Motivator and Life Coach, I use movement, mindset coaching, and motivational speaking to encourage self-expression, confidence, and resilience.
- Mister Globe Indian Ocean 2025 – A title representing my commitment to diversity, cultural representation, and self-confidence on an international platform.
My Vision as Honorary Vice Chancellor
At Pebble Hills University, I see an opportunity to create a truly global, innovative, and inclusive institution. I aim to bridge academic excellence with real-world impact, ensuring our students and faculty thrive in an ever-evolving world.
What I Hope to Achieve at PHU
Building Stronger International Partnerships
- Building strong international partnerships by working closely with universities and research institutions worldwide to create meaningful collaborations that benefit students and faculty.
- Expanding exchange programs so students and professors can immerse themselves in new cultures, experience diverse academic settings, and broaden their perspectives.
- Raising PHU’s profile on the global stage by actively contributing to international research and fostering thought leadership. We aim to ensure that our university is recognised as a key player in academic innovation.
- Encouraging research that tackles real-world challenges – from technology to media and social justice.
- Bringing expert together through academic forums and symposiums, creating spaces where ideas can be exchanged, research can be shared, and new collaborations can emerge across different fields.
- By giving students the support, tools, and opportunities to explore new ideas and challenge the norm, we empower them to lead research and innovation.
Empowering Students for the Future
- Developing mentorship programs that help students navigate their academic and career journeys.
- Integrating modern technology into learning, including AI-driven education tools and interactive digital classrooms.
- Promoting lifelong learning and ensuring students and alumni have continuous access to PHU’s global academic network.
Advocating for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- PHU should be where all students – regardless of background – feel valued, heard, and empowered.
- Expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in academia.
- Leading initiatives that promote ethical leadership and professional integrity within higher education.
Expand PHU’s Digital & Media Presence
- Strengthen PHU’s online education programs make quality learning accessible to students worldwide.
- Showcasing faculty research, student achievements, and institutional milestones globally.
- Promoting media and film studies ensures students gain hands-on experience in digital storytelling, content creation, and media analytics.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
Finally, I express my deepest gratitude to PHU University for appointing me as its Honorary Vice-Chancellor. Education is at its best when people unite, share ideas, and inspire one another. Let’s create a place where we will all grow, learn from each other, and create new opportunities.
I cannot wait to work with students worldwide, meet scholars from different fields, and work with global partners. Let’s learn together and make the world a better place.
To your success,
Amb. Prof. Dr. Stéphane NARCIS
Honorary Vice Chancellor of Pebble Hills University