Why Values Day matters

In an era where automation and generative AI are reshaping industries, the value of distinctly human skills — like communication, teamwork, and leadership — has never been higher. Employers today are not just looking for technical expertise; they want leaders who can navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, foster inclusive environments, and drive innovation through collaboration. Values Day is specifically designed to develop these core skills, positioning our students as future leaders who can manage effectively in a rapidly changing business landscape.

The ACT philosophy: building inclusive leaders

At the heart of Values Day are two powerful philosophies: the ability to ACT inclusively and the recognition of the Opportunity Gap that opens when we do so.

ACT stands for:

• Awareness of Self: understanding your own biases, social identities, and values
• Consideration of others: recognising and valuing the differences in others
• Taking action mindfully: Acting with purpose using evidence, rather than reacting with instinct

These ACT skills are foundational for working well with people who are different from yourself. They open the Opportunity Gap — the ability to see, value, and leverage the individuality of each colleague. By embracing these differences, we can all create more productive, creative, and happier work environments.

Working with local Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs)

Learning from NGOs in Kenya was incredibly rewarding. It taught me the importance of adaptability and cultural sensitivity in implementing business solutions. I learned about the unique challenges faced by non-profits in resource-limited settings and the innovative strategies they employ to overcome these obstacles. This experience underscored the significance of social impact and sustainability in business practices.

Understanding sustainability in business

Engaging with local enterprises that prioritise sustainable practices demonstrated how businesses can thrive while contributing to environmental and social well-being. A key takeaway was learning that sustainability doesn't have to come at a premium. These enterprises showed that integrating sustainable practices can lead to innovative solutions and long-term success without necessarily incurring higher costs. This experience reinforced the idea that sustainability is not just a corporate responsibility but also a strategic driver for innovation and competitiveness in the global market. 

A personal highlight was visiting local startups like Arc Ride and BasiGo. Witnessing firsthand their innovative approaches to solving local transportation and sustainability challenges was truly inspiring. 

Interacting with the passionate entrepreneurs behind these ventures and seeing their dedication to making a positive impact reaffirmed my commitment to leveraging business for social good and highlighted the immense potential of innovation in driving sustainable development. 

Understanding business in Africa

Business in Africa is incredibly diverse and dynamic and the experience has shifted my perspective, highlighting the importance of understanding local contexts and the need for tailored approaches in global business strategies. It has also strengthened my leadership skills and my ability to think strategically about global business challenges and opportunities.

Tackling inequality in business

From the trip, I learnt that businesses can address inequality by fostering inclusive growth, investing in local talent, and supporting community-driven initiatives.  

It is crucial for businesses to create opportunities for marginalized groups and to implement practices that promote social and economic equity. By partnering with local organisations and focusing on sustainable development, businesses can play a pivotal role in reducing inequality. 

Exploring Nairobi

Beyond the academic aspect, I gained a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Kenya and the resilience of its people. Immersing myself in the local culture involved engaging with community members, participating in traditional events, and exploring the local cuisine and customs. 

The experience broadened my worldview, improved my cross-cultural communication skills, and provided a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to contribute positively to global business practices. 

Key takeaways

The trip to Kenya provided several key takeaways that have profoundly impacted my understanding of global business. Firstly, I learned that cultural sensitivity is crucial for effective business operations in diverse environments. The trip underscored the vast potential of emerging markets, particularly in Africa, and also highlighted the power of collaboration. Working alongside local NGOs and businesses showed how joint efforts can lead to impactful solutions for social and environmental issues.  

Overall, the trip emphasised that innovation, sustainability, and collaboration are key drivers of long-term business success in a global context. 

Advice to other MBA students

Approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Embrace the cultural differences, actively participate in all activities, and take the time to reflect on your learnings.  

Additionally, take advantage of the opportunity to bond with your cohort, including students from the Full-Time, Weekend, and Global Online MBA programmes. Building relationships with local partners and fellow students can enhance the overall experience and create a strong network of support and collaboration. Finally, remember that this is a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons and gain insights that will be valuable in your future career. 

Studying online with Imperial College Business School eliminates geographical barriers, providing access to a high-quality and supportive educational experience, whilst giving you the flexibility to work anytime and from anywhere around the globe.  

Katarina Milović, a MSc Strategic Marketing (online, part-time) student, highlights how online learning has been instrumental in balancing her studies with other commitments, provided opportunities to connect with peers on a global level, and empowered her to pursue her career goals. 

Online learning has not only made university an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable experience but has also propelled me towards personal growth and self-discovery in ways I hadn't imagined possible.

About me 

I'm driven by the passion to create positive change through social entrepreneurship and marketing. From spearheading the development of a government communications service in Serbia, to embarking on the journey of co-founding two non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and nurturing my own startup venture, I thrive on the challenge of bringing innovative ideas to life and making a difference in the world. 

Why I chose to study online with Imperial College Business School 

My decision to enrol on MSc Strategic Marketing (online, part-time) at Imperial College Business School stemmed from a unique blend of factors tailored to my portfolio career objectives: 

Flexibility 

Opting for an online programme provides me with the flexibility necessary to seize diverse opportunities. I’m currently immersed in the BOLD Fellowship of Entrepreneurship and Economic Development in New York, US, where I'm co-founding an initiative aimed at empowering aspiring female entrepreneurs and leaders, while refining my startup idea through an intense 12-week programme. 

Networking 

The programme's remarkable online nature makes it ideally suited for individuals at various stages of their careers, and I've had the privilege of connecting with professionals from diverse backgrounds. 

Dynamic marketing principals  

Imperial’s MSc Strategic Marketing (online, part-time) is tailored to provide a comprehensive understanding of marketing principles and strategies, preparing us to navigate the complexities of today's business landscape with confidence. My fascination with human behaviour and my desire to pursue a business-focused path post-bachelor's makes the programme the perfect blend of psychology and business for me. 

Opting for an online programme at such a prestigious university has been instrumental in my personal and professional development journey. The opportunity to learn from esteemed faculty and collaborate with ambitious peers has enriched my experience. 

Managing full-time work and part-time online study 

Navigating the demands of full-time work alongside part-time online study certainly presents its challenges, especially when faced with significant transitions such as changing jobs and managing multiple projects across various locations. However, I've found that the key to overcoming these hurdles lies in recognising that I don't have to tackle them alone. 

The programme’s cohort serves as an exceptional support system, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship despite the geographical distances between us. I'm deeply grateful for the bonds formed within this community, as they have enriched my learning experience and provided unwavering support along my journey. 

The Programmes team has exceptional dedication to student success. They consistently prioritise our needs, offering additional tutorials for challenging subjects and arranging extra career workshops on campus, which is especially beneficial for students based in London.

My highlights from the programme so far 

One rewarding moment that stands out is the privilege of representing Imperial College Business School at the Web Summit in Portugal as a Women in Tech participant. During this renowned tech conference, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the latest innovations, attend insightful talks and panel discussions, and network with industry leaders and fellow attendees from around the globe. Additionally, attendees were invited to participate in the Startup Guide Summit, providing further insights into entrepreneurship and innovation. 

Another rewarding highlight was our strategic market management assignment which provided an opportunity to unleash our creativity. Collaborating closely, my team developed a new product and formulated a comprehensive launch strategy, drawing upon insights gleaned from our coursework. It was immensely gratifying to see our ideas come to fruition and to witness the impact of our strategic decisions. 

There are also plenty of social and professional events, such as the Winter Party, where I got the opportunity to meet up with students from my online cohort in January.

At Imperial College Business School, we equip our students to engage with business on a global level. The Global Immersion elective on our Masters' programmes offer students the chance to travel across the world to gain first-hand experience of the business dynamics in a different country.

These Global Immersions include visits to various companies representing diverse industry sectors, along with social and cultural activities. They also provides an opportunity for valuable networking opportunities as students travel alongside peers from a range of programmes within the Business School. 

This week around 300 of our Masters’ students chose to travel to either the US or Singapore. Each of the five trips taking place focus on a different theme, and range from visits to major investment banks, to exploring how data and advancing technologies function in a real-world corporate setting. 

The importance of Global Immersions 

By engaging in international experiences, students gain a unique perspective on global business practices and develop a broader understanding of different cultural contexts. They experience first-hand how businesses operate in diverse environments, which fosters adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and a global mindset. These qualities are increasingly vital in today's interconnected and globalised business landscape, and this skill set is highly sought after by employers.  

Find out more about the five different trips that took place this week, including the companies involved and highlights: 

Global Digital Applications  

• Destination: Boston & New York, US 

• Programmes: MSc Management, MSc International Management, MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Management 

This module explores how data and artificial intelligence is being applied in real-world corporate settings. Students visited both Harvard and MIT to learn more about their innovation labs and the future of business applications of AI and data. In New York, students met large corporates such as Estée Lauder and JP Morgan to learn how they use AI and data to enhance their businesses. 

The Future of Cities 

• Destination: Singapore 

• Programmes: MSc Management, MSc International Management, MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Management 

This module explores Singapore as a Smart City and how local innovations make it unique. Students visited Changi airport to learn why their strategic vision makes it the world's best airport. Other visits included a trip to Volocopter, an electric drone operated helicopter providing novel approaches to transportation. 

Corporate Finance for Practitioners 

• Destination: Singapore 

• Programmes: MSc Finance, MSc Finance & Accounting, MSc Investment & Wealth Management, MSc Risk Management and Financial Engineering 

This is a taught elective which incorporates visits to banks located in Singapore. Student lectures were hosted by the Wealth Management Institute, and we visited major international banks such as Bank of Singapore, HSBC and DBS. 

Introduction to Quantitative Investing 

• Destination: New York, US 

• Programmes: MSc Finance, MSC Financial Technology, MSc Investment & Wealth Management, MSc Risk Management and Financial Engineering 

This is a taught elective which incorporates visits to banks located in New York. Student lectures were hosted by Cornell Tech at their Roosevelt Island campus, and we visited major investment banks such as UBS and Two Sigma, as well as the Deutsche Bank trading floor. 

International residency recap

The week-long residency at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School was an unforgettable experience. From engaging lectures to eye-opening site visits, the international residency provided me with the opportunity to explore the intricacies of operating an international business in China. Standout moments for me included site visits to ByteDance, BGI Group, and Guangzhou Xiaopeng Automotive, offering valuable insights into the dynamic business environment in China. Additionally, the residency featured an overnight stay in Shenzhen, China, providing us with the chance to witness classroom learnings in action.

Overall, my international residency in China was more than a learning experience, it was a transformative journey that expanded my global perspective, enriched my network, and left an unforgettable mark on my professional and personal development.

Developing a global perspective

The residency significantly broadened my understanding of global business and leadership. Immersed in the vibrant Chinese business landscape, it deepened my awareness of Chinese culture, providing a crucial cultural context for future global engagements. Additionally, the experience enhanced my knowledge of the Chinese economy, revealing its complexities and future growth prospects. The insights gained into strategies for external companies engaging with the Chinese market and suppliers were invaluable, offering practical knowledge that I believe will greatly benefit my career. Overall, the residency provided me with a well-rounded perspective essential for navigating the complexities of international business and leadership.

Key highlights 

One standout session was the lecture by Professor Howard Lam, offering insights into how foreign companies access the China market. Professor Lam's wealth of experience at P&G, McDonald’s, and Coca-Cola brought marketing theory to life, connecting classroom learnings to real-world applications. Practical examples from Professor Lam's professional career also offered insights into the cultural awareness needed when operating a business in China.

The second notable lecture focused on Emerging Technology in China, presented by Dr. Toa Charm. This session provided an in-depth review of major technology players in China compared to their US counterparts, illustrating the momentum and strength of China’s Tech Start-up Ecosystem. Dr Charm’s personal insights from his senior management positions in business was a key takeaway for me.

Apart from the educational experiences, my most significant memory was strengthening friendships with classmates and immersing myself in the unique business culture of Hong Kong and China. It was not just a professional journey but a personal one, fostering lasting connections.

Exploring Hong Kong

The decision to travel early allowed me to explore Hong Kong and China with fellow EMBA22 students. CUHK curated an exceptional itinerary, seamlessly blending business and cultural experiences. From the vibrant streets of Hong Kong to the tech hubs of Shenzhen, the trip offered an all-inclusive view of China's diverse landscape.

Standout activities in Hong Kong included hiking up Victoria Peak, immersing myself in the vibrant markets, and visiting Tian Tan Buddha via a glass-floor cable car! In China, the key activities included a well-organised cultural tour along with exploring Shenzhen.

Advice to Executive MBA students

Seize the opportunity fully. Go early, stay late. Immerse yourself not only in the business aspect but also in the local culture. Be open to new ideas, diverse ways of working, and embrace the trip as a chance for both personal and professional growth. 

Overall, my international residency in China was more than a learning experience, it was a transformative journey that expanded my global perspective, enriched my network, and left an unforgettable mark on my professional and personal development. As we continue to navigate an interconnected world, these insights will undoubtedly shape my approach to international business.

What does the new class look like? 

The Executive MBA programme at the Business School has long thrived on its diversity, fostering vibrant class discussions and facilitating the establishment of a global network. This year's cohort of 45 students upholds this tradition, with 31% of the group being female and representing 20 different nationalities. 

The consulting project 

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Cape Town, South Africa as part of a Leadership in Action module, where my classmates and I were immersed in a real-world consultancy project. My team’s client, a company specialising in leather jackets and goods with a 40-year legacy, had recently faced challenges. Declining sales and adherence to conventional business methods have put them in a difficult position. We came up with several strategies and implemented a number of them. From building the brand, to setting up databases for future clients, developing an automated invoicing tool and improving their website. The on-ground research helped us learn about the business landscape and culture of South Africa.

Gaining real-world experience  

Such first-hand consulting experience is something we cannot usually get in the early stages of our careers. This opportunity allowed us to explore every critical aspect of business management, from marketing and finance to branding, distribution, and workforce management, expanding our learning curve greatly.  

During this experience, I was able to develop cultural sensitivity and emotional intelligence. While navigating a diverse team and interacting with local stakeholders, this proved essential to fostering a collaborative work environment. This also reinforced my ability to effectively communicate, resolve conflicts, and reach consensus across cultural and professional boundaries.  

The experience helped me improve my project management skills, such as developing timelines, allocating resources, tracking results, and meeting strict deadlines. I improved my knowledge of data management and information systems by learning how to use digital tools to automate invoices and set up databases. At the very least, I've become more proficient at organising, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. 

My experience in Cape Town also showed me how important teamwork is and how much we can achieve in a short amount of time when we communicate well, work together, and understand each other.  

These skills are the foundation of effective business management, and my hands-on experience in Cape Town confirmed my ability to apply them in a way that directly impacts business growth and operational efficiency. This will help me perform well in corporate and business settings in the future.

Cultural activities 

This was my first time visiting South Africa and I loved it. Cape Town was so beautiful, warm, and sunny that we all had a great time exploring the city. We spent time at various beaches, visited the Cape of Good Hope, and had the pleasure of seeing penguins too. One of the best experiences was the Food Jam organised by the college, where we cooked food with our team while grooving and dancing to music. 

The highlight of the trip for me was the ‘White Party’. It was straight out of a movie, we were all dressed in white, having loads of fun that night with our professors, South African team members and mentors.  

This was truly a memorable week, full of learning, new experiences, and hands-on consulting. I had so much fun and made so many memories, I still can't get over how amazing that week was. The programme has been truly life changing. 

How Imperial College Business School provides opportunities for women 

Imperial College Business School has some excellent opportunities for women. As women, we are given the chance to network with other intellectual females both within the school and beyond.   

Various workshops provide help and suggestions on how to tackle the daunting challenges faced by women in the workplace. Industry specific events, such as Women in Finance, Women in Tech, and many more, are also held where we can network with industry experts and leaders, gaining key insights on breaking into the industry and navigating the numerous challenges. Exclusive access to careers events allows female students to gain key insights from graduate employers.  

Women at Imperial Week is held each year, where the Masters’ students get to have breakfast with the esteemed board, attend keynote events, leadership workshops and even masterclasses on personal issues like dealing with menopause - an issue all women face at some point in their work life.  

The support I have received as a woman 

Receiving Imperial’s Global Online MBA Women’s Scholarship Award was an immense financial aid, but also an enormous boost to my confidence to do something for the women of my firm, my community and my country. Furthermore, the Business School held a Scholarship Breakfast Event for all scholarship recipients, giving me the opportunity to network with the best of the best. It felt great to celebrate with Imperial.  

Why I attended the event

As soon as I heard about the Women in Finance event, I was instantly excited to join, and learn who the panellists would be. As a woman looking to pursue a career in finance, I was eager to hear from accomplished women who have successfully navigated and excelled in a male-dominated field. When the speakers were announced, my excitement grew even more. It felt like such a privilege to meet these powerful female leaders in finance. I was also looking forward to learning about the initiatives and changes implemented within the industry to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment. On top of that, I hoped to network with professionals and peers, expanding my understanding and connections within the finance community. 

As a woman looking to pursue a career in finance, I was eager to hear from accomplished women who have successfully navigated and excelled in a male-dominated field.

The Women in Finance panel

Dr. Lara Cathcart - Academic Director, MSc Finance Suite Programmes. Lara had a keynote on increasing female representation in finance set the tone for the discussion, highlighting the role of education in shaping the future.

Madalena Godinho Ramos - Managing Director at Blackstone Credit & Insurance. Madalena shared the importance of adaptability and exploring various roles in finance, which illustrated the diverse opportunities available in the field.

Sarah Beian - Head of Sales, DACH Sell-Side Banks at Bloomberg. Sarah shared insights on mentorship and building supportive networks, emphasising the collective effort needed to uplift women in finance.

Roya Rahnejat - Growth Execution Manager at Howden Insurance Broking. Roya discussed the evolving nature of work-life balance in finance, highlighting the industry's efforts to become more inclusive and flexible. Her perspective shed light on the changing dynamics of the finance workplace to accommodate diverse life situations.

Adriana Enna - Director, Public Policy Europe and UK at Credit Suisse. Adriana spoke about the self-imposed barriers that women often face. This was a powerful reminder about the importance of self-advocacy and not placing a 'glass ceiling' on oneself.

My key takeaways 

One piece of advice from the panellists really struck a chord with me. It was a quote from Adriana Ennab, who said, "a lot of times, you're putting that glass ceiling there yourself." This statement was a real eye-opener. It made me realise how often we, especially as women in a field like finance, can unconsciously limit ourselves. Her emphasis on self-advocacy was captured in powerful words: "If you know you're good and you know what you're doing is right, you have to ask for what you want,".

It served as a crucial reminder of the importance of self-belief and assertiveness, especially in a finance industry where women are often underrepresented.

Her words inspired me to not only recognise my value but also to actively ensure that others recognise it too. It was a powerful lesson in breaking free from self-imposed limitations and embracing the potential for success without constraints.

Networking opportunities

I had a fantastic opportunity to network with a diverse group of attendees, which was one of the highlights of the experience. I met many students from a variety of disciplines at Imperial College London, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and alumni, as well as students from other universities. This diversity really showcased how finance is an inclusive industry, open to people from all sorts of academic fields. A particularly memorable encounter was with a physics student from Imperial. She shared her journey about what attracted her to pursue a career in finance. Despite her strong background in science, she was fascinated by the analytical and problem-solving aspects of finance, which she found paralleled the complexities she enjoyed in Physics. This conversation was a revelation to me; it highlighted how the interdisciplinary nature of finance can offer exciting career paths for those with non-traditional backgrounds.

Applying learnings in my own career

From the event, I found several strategies and approaches particularly valuable for my future career in finance. Sarah Beian mentioned the importance of networking, "speak to your female network but also to your male network, because you will find allies as well from men”. This advice resonated with me as it highlighted the value of building a diverse professional network. Additionally, Madalena Godinho Ramos spoke about the necessity of adapting to change in the dynamic world of finance. She stated, "the ability to face change. You have to embrace change, because the world is ever evolving”. Her words reinforced the importance of being flexible and open to new opportunities and directions in my career. These insights from the panellists have significantly shaped my approach to building a successful career in the finance industry, reminding me of the importance of networking, adaptability, and embracing change.

The entire discussion made me see the existing gaps more clearly and the efforts being made to bridge them, motivating me to be part of creating a more inclusive finance world, where diversity is not just accepted but actually celebrated.

Building gender diversity and equality in finance

The panel discussion was an eye-opening experience for me, particularly regarding gender diversity and equality in the finance sector. Dr. Lara Cathcart's keynote on the underrepresentation of women in finance, both in industry and academia, was particularly inspiring. She noted, "a more balanced gender environment in the workplace encourages greater female participation, creating a more equitable space". This highlighted the crucial need for systemic changes in the industry.

Additionally, Madalena Godinho Ramos shared her personal journey, "for five years I was the only woman in the investment team... I need to be twice as good. I need to work twice as hard... I wish I had enjoyed the ride more because I think in some parts of my career I was so stressed and so overwhelmed". Her story outlined the challenges of being a woman in finance, while emphasising the importance of self-belief and enjoying one's successes.

Advice for students seeking a career in finance

The panellists stressed the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to face challenges.

“If everything comes easy, you will never be ready for the real world,” - Adriana Ennab

"One of the things that I'm learning from my boss is how to speak up... if we victimise ourselves then it's going to be a harder journey to overcome” - Roya Rahnejat

"Be open to global opportunities and the willingness to adapt to new environments" - Sarah Beian

These insights provide valuable guidance for students interested in finance, emphasising the necessity of resilience, adaptability, and assertiveness.