What is the LGBTQ+ & Allies Business Club?

Our club mission is to create a more diverse, equal, and inclusive university environment where Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) students and our Allies can thrive professionally and personally. 

Our aim as a club is to create a more vibrant and visible LGBTQ+ presence on campus, forming a safe space for every college student to express their authentic selves. 

Here are some of the services we provide at the LGBTQ+ & Allies Business Club:

• The club connects Imperial MBA and MSc students with LGBTQ+ inclusive companies
• We organize targeted recruitment events, on/off-campus events, webinars and trips
• Potential discrimination in the workplace can affect career development. We assist and help how to deal with day-to-day issues
• We offer peer coaching on personal issues

We engage with all members of the Imperial College Business School community who are passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the business world, organising interesting initiatives around this topic. We also collaborate with Imperial College’s wider LGBTQ community to foster a more inclusive culture, giving opportunities to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to network with students from different schools. 

The EDI Mentoring programme

As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I deeply understand the power of reciprocity and the importance of leveraging our network to foster strong bonds.

At the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club, we are committed to unlocking the potential of LGBTQ+ students. One of the ways that we can do this is through a Mentorship Programme run in conjunction with the Black in Business Club and the Women Mean Business Club.

This initiative pairs students with experienced mentors from our community, embodying our conviction that mentorship is a key driver for empowering and inspiring the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders. Our goal is to cultivate a supportive environment that not only enriches students' academic lives at Imperial College Business School but also builds a lasting mentorship network.

We see our mentorship programme as both a beacon of guidance and a powerful tool for empowerment, equipping students to thrive in their careers and advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the business sphere confidently.

Our programme transcends the conventional scope of professional development; it's a journey of transformation. We aim to offer a distinctive space where students can pursue their career goals while nurturing a profound sense of belonging to our community. Importantly, we encourage participants to proudly embrace their identities, providing them with the guidance, encouragement, and steadfast support they need to navigate the challenges of the business world and personal growth. 

As one of the initiators of the EDI Mentorship Programme 2024, my role includes structuring the programme, gauging our club members’ professional needs and preferences, and creating promotional materials. I've taken an active part in managing the programme timeline, designing a survey to capture students' preferences, and creating a mentorship flyer for distribution across the entire business school. I'm delighted to see that this year we've seen the highest registration of mentees, which is a testament to the enthusiasm of Imperial College alumni to mentor and share their insights with the next generation of leaders.

Key initiatives for LGBTQ+ History month

There are so many exciting things going on during LGBTQ+ History Month, focusing on student life, professional advancements, and EDI education. As part of the LGBTQ+ community at Imperial, we strive to cultivate an environment where every student can achieve success personally and professionally.

Specifically, from LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club, the most recent one was the visible stall to enhance visibility and build community. We aim to help everyone understand the origin, significance, and milestones of LGBT+ History Month. It is also our club’s belief that allies hold significant importance within the community. Hence, as part of the stall, we distributed pronoun badges and allies’ badges to students.

Imperial also held the LGBTQ+ Career Panel to demonstrate how to be your true self at the workplace, featuring amazing panelists. It reveals more opportunities for LGBTQ+ students to understand the diverse career paths and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. This event was particularly empowering for students, offering guidance on how to embrace their identities within their future workplaces confidently. It also highlighted the importance of finding and fostering supportive networks and environments that celebrate diversity. 

I particularly look forward to attending the film screening of The Dreamlife of Georgie Stone. This is because it provides a smaller group setting that allows for deeper and more nuanced discussions. We can share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely from watching this documentary. I think it is also a great chance to connect with others on a personal level, and even make friends who think alike!

In September, we welcomed another great cohort of Finance Master’s students as they begin their one-year journey on the following programmes:   

• MSc Finance
• MSc Finance & Accounting
• MSc Financial Technology
• MSc Investment & Wealth Management
• MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering

620 students have joined Imperial College Business School across these 5 programmes, with 44% of students being female and the average age being 22. The cohort comprises 77 nationalities, giving students a diverse and enriching learning environment. These students come with diverse career and educational backgrounds, with many originating from fields such as Mathematics, Finance/Accounting, Economics, and Science/Medicine.

About me 

I have an insatiable appetite for all things business, economics, finance, and politics. The way these subjects influence the human mind and shape our world is what truly fascinates me. Hence, why the MSc Economics & Strategy for Business programme at Imperial College Business School has been the ideal environment for me to explore and flourish within this dynamic business landscape. 

The Imperial choice 

Picture this – the heart of London, a stellar alumni board, an outstanding faculty, and a curriculum that’s as dynamic as the city itself. Imperial College Business School was a no-brainer for me. Being in London is like being at the epi-centre of the business universe, and I wanted a front-row seat to witness and learn from the best. 

The joy of intellectual stimulation 

Fast forward to the present, my experience has been nothing short of exhilarating. The programme has managed to strike a balance between being interesting and intellectually stimulating. We aren’t just students; we're future CEOs and board members in the making. 

One highlight of last term was our Corporate Strategy elective. Instead of traditional textbook learning, we were thrown into the deep end with a real-world challenge. My team took on the mighty Netflix, dissecting its decision to dive headfirst into the streaming arena. This exercise opened our eyes to all types of considerations that companies face when making strategic decisions. 

Nurturing future leaders 

I've had the chance to hone my leadership skills by taking on the role of Student-Staff Committee (SSC) and actively participating in various clubs and competitions. It's a holistic approach to leadership development that goes beyond the confines of a classroom. 

Eager anticipation for electives 

The programme offers a fantastic array of electives, and I’m eagerly counting down the days until I can delve into the world of geopolitics. The anticipation of interacting with a diverse cohort and exploring these specialised subjects is thrilling.  

Where technology meets business 

Innovating and applying technological solutions are an integral part of the programme. Learning coding skills in the first semester was an eye-opener, as it highlighted the essential role that technology plays in today's business landscape. Whether analysing case studies or real-world scenarios, we consistently explored the dynamic relationship between technology and business.

Imperial’s MSc Economics & Business Strategy programme is not just an academic pursuit; it's a transformative journey. It's about gaining insights, refining leadership skills, and embracing the dynamic intersection of technology and business.

As I begin to navigate through this academic journey, I can't help but feel like I'm not just learning about the world; I'm actively shaping its future. I am excited by the adventures that lie ahead and the invaluable lessons to be learned on this programme in the bustling heart of London!

As the sun dipped below the horizon in South Kensington, the Natural History Museum closed its doors to the public. The museum came alive and transformed into a captivating venue, exclusively for Imperial College Business School students to celebrate the 2024 academic year kickstart. Held in the Hintze Hall, the event united students and alumni from across our programmes at the Business School. A neighbour to Imperial College London, the Natural History Museum provided a space that felt like a scene from a movie. As our students start a new academic term, they reflect on their experience so far and share highlights of this unforgettable event.

Rounak Mahakul

MSc Risk Management & Financial Engineering

Nationality: Indian 

Throughout my first term, Imperial College Business School has provided me a great platform to showcase and harness my leadership capabilities by making it accessible to various events ranging from social to career fairs to network with alumni better fostering a deeper meaningful relationship.  

I have found the classroom to have experienced professors that structure the programme in such a way that contrasts while mapping theoretical knowledge with practical implications relating to the applications used while delving deeper into the world of finance.  

An unforgettable event 

Prior to the event, I felt so excited to join a student event with amazing people with diverse background meeting new bunch of beautiful people bringing back to the Business School calendar. More than 500+ people joining  the party couldn’t have been more exciting moment to capture these moments in the middle of this intense one-year program. I remember before joining the Business School, students would always talk about this Winter Party as an unforgettable event.  

My personal highlight of the party 

Personally, being with the classmates, communities and bright minds at Business School enjoying this lively experience made this party eventful and full of life. Also, I had great moment to cherish with the people over clink of glasses and kickstart the year 2024 at the National History Museum party.  

Additionally, we were fortunate enough to meet with the Imperial alumni who were also invited to the party; I spoke to them to understand about their experience at Imperial and managing workloads this intense year.  

Executive MBA students complete a one-week international residency, visiting top business schools and organisations and gaining first-hand experience of international business contexts in other countries. In this blog, Executive MBA student Georges Panaghoulis shares his experience after attending the international residency in the US where the cohort visited MIT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston and Stanford University in San Fransisco. Georges reflects on the transformative experience of engaging with industry experts and professors and how the trip enriched his understanding of global business and leadership.  

Georges Panaghoulis

Nationality: French, Greek 

Education: Polytech Marseille 

Company and role: Island Oil, Head of Price Risk and Hedging 

My highlights of the residency  

The first segment of our Executive MBA's international residency took us to the United States, where we delved into the innovation hubs of MIT in Boston and Stanford University in Silicon Valley. These institutions are more than just academic powerhouses; they are dynamic ecosystems driving real-world innovation. Our residency melded theoretical knowledge with hands-on practices, illuminating the entire innovation lifecycle from ideation to execution. A pivotal insight was the cultural embrace of risk-taking and failure, not as setbacks but as integral parts of the innovative journey. Standout experiences included our visits to the SRI and Plug & Play Institute, where we observed how startups pitch to investors and how these institutions foster rapid innovation.  

“Residencies offer invaluable opportunities to witness innovation and business success across different cultures, particularly in the US. These experiences broaden your perspective, provide expert insights, and allow for personal and professional growth.” 

How this residency contributed to my learning 

The residency enriched my understanding of global business and leadership, especially in the context of American market dynamics. The key lessons included the emphasis on diversity, flexibility, and market orientation in U.S. companies, demonstrated during our visit to Sanofi and through interactions with venture capitalists. Stanford's sessions on innovation, risk management, and a workshop on business ethics provided new perspectives on leadership, stressing the importance of ethical decision-making and the power of a supportive network in fostering innovation. 

The opportunity to interact with industry experts and professors 

Engaging with experts like Phill Budden, Stuart Krusell, Fiona Murray, and Scott Stern at MIT, and Riitta Katila at Stanford, was enlightening. Their diverse perspectives on building successful innovation ecosystems, deep tech innovation, entrepreneurial strategy, and overcoming organisational innovation struggles provided invaluable insights. These interactions underscored the significance of collaboration, big-picture thinking, and creating safe environments for innovation. 

Tom Byers' course on entrepreneurial ecosystems and Brandon Farwell’s workshop on business ethics were particularly impactful. They provided deep dives into the essential components of successful ventures and the ethical considerations vital in today's complex business world. 

Exposure to the US business environment  

My exposure to the US business environment highlighted the importance of embracing risk, being agile, and market focused. Insights gained from practical experiences at SRI, startup pitches at Plug & Play, and discussions on innovation and venture capitalism emphasised the need for efficiency, strong networking, and the art of storytelling in business. 

My advice to future MBA students 

I strongly recommend embracing international residencies. They offer invaluable opportunities to witness innovation and business success across different cultures, particularly in the US. These experiences broaden your perspective, provide expert insights, and allow for personal and professional growth. 

My journey to study at Imperial College Business School  

I am currently enrolled in a Master's in Business Analytics programme. I decided to pursue a Master's in Business Analytics at Imperial College Business School due to its unparalleled relevance in today's dynamic business landscape. The programme's meticulously crafted modules caught my attention, offering a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. This hands-on approach to learning appealed to me as it aligned seamlessly with my career aspirations.  

Taking a leap of faith, I decided to leave my comfort zone in India and embark on an educational journey abroad. Imperial College Business School's reputation as one of the top-ranking universities in the world for my course played a crucial role in my decision. The prospect of learning from distinguished faculty members and being a part of an institution known for shaping future leaders in business analytics was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. 

As I miss the warmth of home, I find solace in the warmth of the relationships I've built here. Exploring the city with my new friends and sharing stories of our respective homes has been a heartening experience, reminding me that despite the distance, I'm not alone.

Beyond the academic aspect, the allure of studying in London added an extra layer of excitement to my decision. The vibrant city, rich in history and culture, promised an unparalleled living experience. Being part of such a diverse cohort, where perspectives from around the globe converge, has enriched my learning experience, providing insights that extend far beyond the classroom.

My first winter in London 

This marks my first winter in London, and it's been a mix of emotions that encapsulates the essence of this unique experience. As I navigate through the chilly streets and bustling markets, there's a palpable sense of missing my family during this festive season. However, amidst the nostalgia, there's a genuine excitement for the year ahead and the new connections I've forged with incredible people in this vibrant city. 

As I miss the warmth of home, I find solace in the warmth of the relationships I've built here. Exploring the city with my new friends and sharing stories of our respective homes has been a heartening experience, reminding me that despite the distance, I'm not alone. This winter, with its blend of nostalgia and anticipation, is shaping up to be a memorable chapter in my life, marked by the resilience to adapt, the joy of new connections, and the beauty of discovering the unexpected in the heart of London. 

South Kensington itself is a treasure trove of beauty and culture, with iconic buildings and attractions adding to the magical atmosphere.

South Kensington festivities  

Living near South Kensington during the Christmas season is an absolute delight, and London, true to its nature, offers an abundance of festive activities. South Kensington itself is a treasure trove of beauty and culture, with iconic buildings and attractions adding to the magical atmosphere. One of the highlights has been exploring the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a short distance away from our campus. The transformation of the park into a festive extravaganza is truly enchanting. 

From the dazzling lights to the festive markets, there's an infectious energy that makes it a must-visit during the holiday season. What's particularly special is the involvement of Imperial students in organising choral singing events. The harmonious voices echoing around Hyde Park, especially in front of the Royal Albert Hall, create a mesmerising experience that adds a unique touch to the festivities. 

The streets around South Kensington are adorned with stunning Christmas trees, each telling a story of the season in its own way. The grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall, standing as a majestic backdrop to a beautifully decorated tree, is a sight to behold. The combination of historic architecture and festive decorations creates a picturesque scene that captures the essence of Christmas in London. 

Festive celebrations and traditions on campus 

The festive spirit has beautifully woven its way onto the campus, and the decorations around Imperial College Business School have added a touch of holiday cheer to the usual academic environment. The Christmas trees scattered across campus are not only delightful to look at but also serve as communal hubs for spreading festive joy. 

One of my favourite Christmas trees on campus happens to be at the library. Spending a significant amount of time there, as is the case for many business school students, I've come to appreciate the festive ambiance it adds to my study sessions. It seems like the perfect blend of academic dedication and holiday celebration, which, in the world of business school, might just be the most harmonious pairing. 

What makes the library Christmas tree particularly special is the option for students to hang handwritten decorations on its branches. It's a heartwarming tradition that allows everyone to contribute a personal touch to the festive decor. Some notes are beautifully warm and sincere, capturing the essence of the season, while others bring a smile with their humour and wit. It's a reminder that even during intense study sessions, a bit of holiday humour can go a long way. 

Balancing celebrations and exams 

Balancing Christmas activities and the demands of exams and coursework is undoubtedly a challenge, but with effective time management and a supportive network, it becomes a manageable feat. It's a delicate juggling act that requires strategic planning and a commitment to both academic success and festive enjoyment. 

One of the key strategies that has helped me strike a balance is efficient time management. Creating a detailed schedule that allocates dedicated time for studying, completing assignments, and engaging in festive activities has been crucial. This ensures that I meet my academic commitments while still having moments to savour the holiday season. 

Additionally, being involved in group study sessions with peers has proven to be immensely beneficial. Not only does it foster a sense of camaraderie during what can be a stressful time, but it also allows for a more efficient understanding of course materials. Exploring concepts together and sharing insights can expedite the learning process, making it easier to grasp complex topics in a shorter amount of time.