At 20 years old, Guillaume St Flour represents a generation that dares to dream big without ever forgetting its roots.
Originally from Baie du Cap, this young man passionate about art, science fiction, and hands-on construction has carved out a unique path, balancing personal growth, community involvement, and professional ambition.
An interview with a young man who proves that it is possible to grow outside the beaten path while returning to where it all began.
Discover the portrait of Guillaume, an example of an engaged young generation, deeply connected to his village yet focused on the future and innovation. By Maïti Chagny, Director of the ASC Foundation.
From Baie du Cap to ENSA Nantes Mauritius
Guillaume St Flour is a young man from Baie du Cap with a passion for architecture. He grew up between academic excellence, hands-on activities, and community involvement.
From an early age, he developed a strong awareness of social realities through his participation in the Scouts and his involvement with the Makondé association.
His artistic experiences and local engagement played a key role in his decision to pursue architecture. Today, he aspires to create his own architectural practice in Baie du Cap to contribute to the development of his village.
Childhood and background
Guillaume, you grew up in Baie du Cap. Could you tell us about your childhood and educational journey?
I attended primary school at Saint-François-d’Assise, then secondary school at Saint-Aubin SSS. I was fortunate to be named top of my class for several years. I completed my HSC at Keats College in Chemin Grenier.
In my family, my mother is a cook and my father works as a mason, carpenter, and fisherman. From them, I learned manual skills, craftsmanship, and above all, the value of hard work and perseverance.
You have two sisters and a brother, right?
Yes, I have two sisters, aged 36 and 30, and an older brother who is 25.
Early interests and influences
Did your interest in art and architecture come early?
Yes, I’ve always enjoyed DIY and science fiction. That’s where it all started. Science fiction opened my imagination and made me want to draw. I also had the chance to take drawing classes in Rivière Noire when I was younger.
At the same time, I was very active in sports: athletics, football, volleyball. I was a curious child with many interests.
Which artists inspired you the most?
Michelangelo, especially his use of chiaroscuro. I had a real revelation about the contrast between light and shadow, emotion and intensity. It also made me realize that art is always a matter of perception.
Commitment and opening to the world
You were involved in social projects from a young age…
Yes, I was a Scout in Baie du Cap. We helped families in need by repainting houses, repairing furniture, or donating items. It taught me perspective: even when things feel difficult, they could always be worse. And above all, not to judge people by appearances.
You also reflected on your peers’ paths…
I had a very talented friend in art who left school at 15 without a clear reason. That really impacted me and made me reflect on my own opportunities.
Makondé and ASC Foundation
You joined Makondé, a local association supported by the ASC Foundation. How did that happen?
Natacha and Rosina invited me to join the youth group. I started as assistant treasurer, which helped me come out of my shell. We also attended a leadership course together, which had a real impact on me.
At 18, I was given more responsibilities, especially for the Baie du Cap carnival, managing logistics and organization. That experience gave me confidence and showed me I could handle real projects.
You also worked on the Makondé logo?
Yes, I created the initial sketch and concept with the group. Then a designer refined it. It was a true collaborative process.
Artistic experiences
You also collaborated with Awali?
Yes, based on my art results in HSC, I was invited to contribute to the decoration of the Awali Kids Club. It was a very enriching experience.
Choosing architecture
How did you choose architecture?
I hesitated between architecture and geography. Then I attended the open days at ENSA Nantes Mauritius in Pailles, which encouraged me a lot.
But the real turning point came during a workshop with architects from Eric Chavoix Architectes and young people from Baie du Cap, discussing pedestrian access around the future Anbalaba development.
Seeing 3D plans, discussing spatial design, and interacting with professionals made me want to become an architect.
Vision for the future
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I want to create my own architecture firm here in Baie du Cap. Everything I’ve experienced here — with Anbalaba and Makondé — has shaped me. I also hope to inspire other young people to follow different paths than the ones they usually see.
Looking at youth challenges
What do you see as the main challenges for young people today?
Smoking and mental health issues are major concerns. Many young people don’t have someone to talk to. Out of around fifty youths, about ten leave school early. We need better psychological support systems.
Advice to younger generations
What advice would you give a 15-year-old?
I would tell them to face their doubts, discover themselves, and identify their passions and strengths. They should also avoid risks like alcohol and cigarettes. And I strongly recommend youth programs like the National Youth Council.
Looking at the village
What would you like to see for Baie du Cap?
I really appreciated the music festivals organized by the ASC Foundation, Makondé, and DRIP. They brought the villages together and created strong community energy. I hope these initiatives continue to strengthen local bonds.
Do you want to support the initiatives of our foundation?
The Domaine d’Anbalaba, through its foundation Anbalaba Social Community, is committed to developing infrastructure and implementing initiatives that foster a place of living and exchange between villagers, residents, and visitors.
If you are interested in the work of our foundation and would like to contribute in any way to the development of a project or take part in one of our activities as a contributor, please feel free to contact us!