Tasneem Harnekar, a top student in the EMBA Global 2023 intake, shares insights into her Global Experience/International Seminar, a mandatory elective during the 2nd year of the EMBA Global programme.
Background and Post-Graduation: Tasneem originally from Australia, spent most of her career in Cape Town, South Africa, before moving to London. She is a qualified actuary with diverse experience across areas like investments, finance, strategy, innovation, and technology implementation. After graduating from the EMBA, she continued to work in the insurance industry, becoming the Head of Propositions at AIG Life UK.
The Global Experience: The Global Experience is a core component of the EMBA Global programme, offering immersive learning in a foreign country. Students choose locations based on the timing, topic, and peers’ preferences. Tasneem chose Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Week Structure: The week was divided into morning classes covering economic concepts, case studies, and readings related to thriving businesses in Latin America. Afternoons included visits to companies that aligned with the morning’s topics, enhancing practical learning.
Events and Company Interactions: Aside from academic activities, students explored the city, interacted with locals, and attended a formal group dinner. Company visits included Mercado Libre, JP Morgan, Banco Provincia, and Tenaris. Some students organized additional events, like tango shows and culinary experiences.
Key Speakers: Notable speakers included Juan Cuattromo, Adolfo Adorno, and Mariano Beltrani from Banco Provincia, and Javier Martinez Alvarez from Tenaris.
Main Takeaways: Historical decisions and evolving culture significantly influence a country’s growth potential. What works elsewhere may not apply due to local contexts. Understanding the history and current dynamics is crucial for effective leadership and reforms. Global interactions impact countries, and continuous slower development can compound over time. As a global leader, understanding these factors is vital for driving change.
Advice for EMBA Global Candidates: Don’t miss the Global Experience. Embrace both theoretical and experiential learning. Engage actively in class, interact with businesses and their leaders, and connect with locals to gain a personal perspective. The more you engage, the more you’ll benefit from this transformative experience as a potential global leader.
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