In an exclusive interview with Prof Cezmi Akdis,Prof. Director of the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Davos, Ordinarius Professor in Zurich University Medical Faculty, and one of the directors of the Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland and Past President of the EAACI, Prof Ruby Pawankar holds a conversation of scientific and impactful highlights of the last decades that led to the growth of the science and professional development of many young scientists. Prof Akdis recalls highlights and explains life experiences that has shaped his career and this of others. From education to the impact of COVID-19, this is an interview you do not want to miss.