I am a Chief Executive Officer at Trueline Africa and an investor at Epicenter Africa.
I decided to study for an MBA as I wanted to acquire a new skill set to upscale my businesses and to run them sustainably. I choose the University of Birmingham because of the University’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence. My course was designed with business innovation and empowerment skills in mind, and was taught by leading professionals and world class researchers. Furthermore, the University is recognised both nationally and internationally as a leading UK university.
What was the highlight of your MBA experience?
I dare say the highlight of my MBA experience is when I was awarded an MBA with Distinction. I felt all the individual and collective teamwork, commitment and dedication to my studies had truly paid off.
What are your fondest memories of your time at Birmingham?
My fondest memories of Birmingham are many. The warmth and politeness of the people, particularly to international students, is a breath of fresh air. The staff at the students’ office are exemplary in their kindness as in their helpfulness. Nothing seems too much, and they would go to any lengths to keep their words.
How have you grown as a person since coming to Birmingham?
I would say I have grown in many ways since coming to Birmingham. As a person, I have been exposed to a multitude of people from very different backgrounds and forged, I hope, enduring friendships. My MBA cohort was very diverse and talented. I learnt a lot from my cohort.
On a professional level, I have been able to apply the knowledge acquired from the University of Birmingham to my business and it has been truly an asset. Translating the scientific principles and applying them in real life situations has been very fulfilling. The MBA programme enhanced my analytical skills and now I scan my businesses’ industry which informs my decision-making process to stay afloat and ahead.
How did the Careers In Business Team assist you?
The UoB Careers in Business Team helped me in many ways, most importantly in helping me to settle into the MBA programme and connecting me to alumni whose stories through their MBA journey made me to muster courage to get it done.
Tell us about your career journey from Birmingham student to where you are today?
I am transformed and transitioned from a CEO who was responsible for the day-to-today overseeing of my business operations to only strategy and marketing. I am now more comfortable delegating and measuring my teams’ performance against set targets rather than prior to taking up the MBA programme. This has freed up and made time available to me to invest in other ventures.
How did you hear about the scholarships on offer and how did receiving one benefit you?
I heard about the scholarship opportunity from the MBA recruitment team. The University of Birmingham African MBA Scholarship scheme offers full tuition scholarships to outstanding students assessed through the past academic records, work experience and a detailed career path.
What are your plans for the next 5 years?
To grow my businesses to reach earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of USD Four Million. The proceeds from the growth will enhance ‘my giving back to community projects’.
How would you describe the Birmingham MBA Experience in 3 words?
Enlightening, Focused, Exquisite