Volunteering

Alumni Advisory Council: New Chair and Vice-Chair appointed

Eunicia Estrocio — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:17:11 +0000

Alumni Advisory Council: New Chair and Vice-Chair appointed

Eunicia Estrocio Wed, 01/10/2025 - 09:17

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

After beginning his career at Finance Think, Besnik Mustafa went on to advise Members of Parliament in North Macedonia. He later joined Salience Consulting, gaining experience across multiple international markets.

27 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

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Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

As the world of work continues to shift through the rise of remote working and rapid advances in AI, our careers consultants are increasingly supporting professionals who want to stay visible, valued, and strategically positioned.

1 October 2025

Alumni

Following a shortlisting and interview process over the summer, we are delighted to announce that Ansumana Bai-Marrow (Global Online MBA 2023) has been appointed the new Chair of the Alumni Advisory Council. He will be joined by Jonathan Tai (iBSc 2003; Medicine 2005; MSc International Health Management 2024) who has been selected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Council. Formally taking up their three-year terms from today, they will lead a 15-strong Council to support the Business School’s strategic initiatives and deliver a range of alumni activity.

Ansumana Bai-Marrow has already demonstrated his commitment for the alumni community as a founding member of the Imperial Black Alumni Network. With 20-years’ experience working in some of the world’s largest financial institutions, Ansumana brings a wealth of leadership experience to the Chair position and a passion for supporting the Business School. Connect with Ansumana.

At such an exciting time for the business school, I’m looking forward to leading an engaged and enlarged Council, serving our growing alumni community, and continuing the great progress made under Joanne’s leadership.

Jonathan Tai is a two time-graduate from Imperial, having completed his medical degree in 2005, followed by a Master’s in International Health Management last year. While studying at the Business School, Jonathan led the Dean’s Student Advisory Council as President and now volunteers his time to mentor current ��ý and speak at events. Connect with Jonathan.

I’m delighted to be appointed and am looking forward to working with our incoming Chair. Together with members of the Alumni Advisory Council, I hope to continue our efforts in building a formidable global alumni network, listening to the needs of nearly 40,000 (and growing) alumni, and leveraging our collective experience to shape the Business School's strategy and initiatives.

“I am so pleased that Ansumana and Jonathan will be leading the Alumni Advisory Council as the Business School embarks on its new strategy, ‘Where science means business’. I know they will do a fantastic job representing the alumni community. On behalf of the alumni team, the Council and the entire School, I’d also like to extend my thanks to Joanne for everything she has given to this role and to our community.”

Rebecca Martin

Head of Alumni Engagement

“Thank you so much for your kind and generous words. During my 13 years on the Council we have handled many significant challenges and changes. Its members have given me much inspiration, wisdom and good humour during that time. The Council thrives on the extraordinary calibre of the alumni community and in Ansu and Jon it has two gifted leaders to continue its important work”

Joanne Linder

Full-Time MBA 1996, Chair of the Alumni Advisory Council (2013-2025)

Volunteering

2 minute read

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

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6 November 2025

Alumni

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996, is one of the Business School’s most dedicated alumni volunteers. She joined the Alumni Advisory Council (AAC) 13 years ago and was appointed Chair just a year later, providing steady leadership through a period of significant change. After 12 years at the helm, Joanne passed the baton to Ansumana Bai-Marrow and Jonathan Tai last month, who become the Council’s new Chair and Vice-Chair respectively. We caught up with Joanne as she reflected on more than a decade of service to the Business School community.

You have an incredible 30-year connection to Imperial. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen at the Business School and wider University during that time?

Yes, it’s hard to believe it’s been that long! I started my Full-Time MBA in 1995, almost exactly 30 years ago before business tools like mobile phones, social media, and even email became widespread.

The Business School back then was still very much finding its feet. At the time, it was known as the Management School and was part of the Engineering Faculty. Fast-forward to today, and it is a world-leading Business School that is a separate faculty within Imperial.

Experiencing that evolution, from a small department to a globally recognised Business School has been amazing. Its role within the University has grown in prominence and importance. I recently saw a BBC article that described Imperial as a leading institution in “science, technology, engineering, medicine and business” underlining that business education has become an integral part of Imperial’s identity.

I think everyone who is connected to the Business School is extremely proud of that journey.

Do you have a favourite stand-out Imperial memory?

There are honestly so many. When you’re involved with somewhere like Imperial, you get to see a lot of amazing developments and activities. But if I had to pick one, it would have to be an event in 2016, where Imperial celebrated 25 years since Britain's first astronaut in space.

Helen Sharman, who works in the Department of Chemistry at Imperial, was the first British person in space in 1991. Astronauts from all over the world came to Imperial to mark the 25-year anniversary, and there was even a live link to Tim Peake who was, at that time, on the International Space Station.

If you ever want to feel humbled, stand in a room full of astronauts! That was definitely a stand-out moment for me.

You have been Chair of the Alumni Advisory Council for 12 years. What are you most proud of during that time?

One area I do feel particularly proud of is the Council’s role in supporting the development of the undergraduate programme at the Business School.

Historically, the Business School had always focused on postgraduate education. Undergraduate programmes were seen as the realm of the wider University, and it wasn’t something the Business School had ever really done. So, when the School proposed launching an undergraduate programme, it had to make a very strong case to do so.

I remember the Council meeting where it was presented to us. The Council members were so enthusiastic in providing input. Many of them had children who might be interested in studying business, giving it a truly personal connection. We could only discuss it for a limited time during the meeting, but afterwards, several members continued the conversation with the staff that were developing the programme.

Of course, the Council was just one stakeholder contributing to the process, but I think we did so in a very positive and constructive way. In its inaugural year it was the second most subscribed undergraduate course across the entire University. It has been such a success and is something I’m very proud to have been a part of.

Reflecting now, I also feel proud of helping to shape a Council with a strong identity and that works well as a team. At the end of the day, the AAC isn’t about any one person. My role was to make sure meetings run smoothly, to motivate, and to make people feel included. I hope that is something I have achieved.

What do you see as the biggest opportunity for the AAC in the coming years?

One of the most significant developments is the creation of task forces, where Council members and other alumni can collaborate outside of the Council meetings to get involved in key issues. It’s something we have wanted to do for a while, and it will provide a fantastic opportunity for alumni to get involved with specific initiatives such as lifelong learning, philanthropy or community engagement.

The University and the Business School really value the voices of the alumni community. So, if anyone is wondering how to get involved, I’d strongly encourage them to join one of these task forces.

What have your learnt from this role?

It’s always interesting chairing a group of talented volunteers. Whilst I have previous experience of this, each group is unique, and the dynamics are very different to chairing meetings in a business setting.

What has really struck me is the enthusiasm and commitment of everyone involved. We all lead busy lives, and yet we are all giving up our time and energy to help. It’s so important to respect the time and goodwill that volunteers offer. That goodwill can take time to build, and it’s important to recognise it, value it and appreciate it.

If I had to sum it up, I’d say the role has taught me a deeper understanding and appreciation of volunteering, and the strength of community that comes with it.

The other thing I’d add is around chairing itself. I think I’ve become better at it during the 12-year period. You learn to be a better facilitator, a better listener, to be inclusive and to motivate people. All those skills have definitely helped me.

Do you have any advice for alumni thinking of volunteering?

Don’t over think it. A lot of people hesitate to put themselves forward because they think, ‘What do I have to offer? What if other things get in the way?’, but everyone has something of value to offer.

There are so many ways to get involved with the Business School and make a real difference. Imagine your own life without education and then imagine helping someone else to experience what you’ve had. Is there any better incentive than that?

Volunteering is also a great way to continue your own personal and professional development. As I mentioned earlier, I learnt a lot during my time as Chair, and I know other volunteers have shared a similar experience. They enjoy giving back while developing personally from the experience. They learn new skills, gain insights into what’s happening at Imperial, build up their knowledge and their network. There’s a real sense of fulfilment, and a feel-good factor too.

So I’d say: don’t hesitate. Get in touch. Everyone has something valuable to give, and you will learn a lot along the way.

What message would you share with fellow alumni about the impact their collective giving can have on Imperial?

I’ve been a donor for many years, and I come from a time and place when education was largely free. It’s impossible to overstate the value of education, both personally and for society as a whole. But education isn’t free, and we need to find the funds to ensure people have access to it.

Giving doesn’t have to be in the form of a large gift. All the smaller contributions together add up to something powerful.

We’ve all benefited from an Imperial education, and it’s meant a lot to us. One of the best ways to understand the impact is to speak to someone who has benefited from a scholarship or read their testimonies. Their stories show what a difference the support has made to their lives.

What does it mean to you personally to be a part of the Imperial alumni community?

When you’re working in a job or a particular role, your perspective can become quite narrow, whether that’s because of your sector or your specific function. But being part of a community like Imperial really broadens your horizons. You’re interacting with people from all over the world and learning about things outside of your own professional sphere.

If someone asked me why they should get involved or attend an event, I’d say, you’ll learn so much just by stepping outside your usual field and getting involved with something completely different. Otherwise, we all risk becoming too narrow in our focus.

How do you hope your future relationship with the Business School and Imperial continues?

I’m still very much connected to Imperial - I remain a member of the Business School’s Advisory Board, and I will continue to be a donor to support its many great initiatives.

It’s so important to have a learning mindset and I want to keep expanding my horizons. Where better to keep learning than by staying connected with one of the world’s best educational institutions?

I would always encourage people not just to focus on what’s happening at the Business School, but to keep that connection with the wider University. We live in a world with many challenging issues, and seeing the work that is being done at Imperial makes me feel proud, positive, and hopeful for the future.

If you could sum up your time as Chair in three words, what would they be?

Pride. Joy. Belonging.

Find out more

Alumni Advisory Council

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Full-Time MBA

7 minute read

Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

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22 October 2025

Alumni

Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018, is the founder of AfriBorder, a company which is revolutionising financial services and international trade across Africa through technology. With two decades of experience, Lola has held senior leadership positions across Europe and Africa, driving transformative change. In 2024, she was named winner of Imperial’s Emerging Alumni Leader Award, and more recently she joined the Business School’s Alumni Advisory Council and has just taken up the role of Co-Chair of Imperial's AI Alumni Affinity network.

Can you give us a potted history of your career journey?

I’ve been in my career for around 20 years now, and recently found myself reflecting on where it all began.

Back then, I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to study because I was good at both arts and sciences. I initially planned to become a doctor, but it didn’t feel like quite the right path for me. Then someone mentioned a foundation course in Computer Science to my parents. It was still a relatively new area at the time, and there was a lot of uncertainty about whether it would take off. But once I started the course, I just fell in love with Java. It felt like a second language to me, and that was where I found my flair.

My career kicked off when I got an internship at an investment bank as a software developer. It wasn’t a particularly popular career choice, especially for women! When I first started out there were maybe four or five women, out of around 40 people. It never really bothered me though as I enjoyed what I was doing so much.

From there, I worked at some of the key banks in Europe such as, Dresdner Kleinwort, Commerzbank, and, BNP Paribas before I moved back to Nigeria to lead the digital transformation of one of the country’s biggest banks.

Today, I run my own firm, Afriborder, which enables me to work on a much larger scale. My focus is on advancing digital technologies and digital trade across Africa, making it easier for people to trade and connect, no matter where they are.

What I love most about my work is the impact. It feels meaningful. Innovation changes lives. It saves people time, helps them do things they couldn’t before, and brings ideas to life they never imagined. Seeing the results in real-life is incredibly powerful.

The theme for Black History Month this year is standing firm in power and pride. What are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of my ability to evolve and grow. Technology is such a dynamic industry. What was cutting edge three years ago is now completely different, and today we are talking about innovations like AI. It’s a constantly changing industry, so staying relevant means staying up to date.

I’ve made a conscious effort to upskill and respond to changes in the industry. That’s not always easy, especially when life pulls you in different directions or you feel the urge to disconnect.

But that ability to keep learning, evolving and growing is something I am truly proud of!

How can those in leadership use their position to empower others?

Giving people a voice is one of the most powerful things a leader can do. It’s something I’ve always prioritized wherever I’ve worked, especially with those whose roles can often be overlooked. I make a point of asking, “what do you think?”, and you’d be surprised by how powerful that question is. It shows people that their perspective matters and that they have something valuable to contribute.

Ultimately, leadership is about people. If you’re leading an organization, then you are leading people. And beyond that, whatever business or initiative you’re running, it’s still people who will engage with it, use it, and bring it to life. That’s why it’s so important for leaders to understand people – what makes them tick and what drives them.

Of course, you also need to have a passion for your work. When you combine a heart for people with a heart for your work, leadership becomes something truly enjoyable and rewarding.

When people feel that they matter, it changes everything – how they work, how they relate to others and how they show up. And when they see your passion for the work, it inspires them to do more and be better themselves.

Can you tell us about any projects you have been involved with that help break down barriers?

The work I do is so exciting because we are at the forefront of global change. It’s a beautiful vantage point, especially when you are shaping policies or building solutions to real-world problems.

One project I’m particularly passionate about at AfriBorder focuses on increasing intra-African trade. Currently, trade between African countries sits at about 15-17%, compared to over 50% in regions like Europe and Asia. We are working with the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria, ODI Global, and other partners to align cross-border payments, digital identity and data systems to seamless enable trade. This includes looking at payment systems within Nigeria and across the continent, digital identity systems, and creating solutions and policies, all to drive meaningful change.

The goal is to increase the amount of trade happening between African countries. For me, that is what breaking down barriers looks like. We’re engaging stakeholders in the public and private sector, conducting research, and working to ensure there is visible, lasting impact.

The objective of trade is to improve lives. When people can trade more easily, they can grow their business and scale beyond borders. A trader in Ghana can sell to the rest of Africa with one click. A trader in Kenya can do the same. That kind of access improves livelihoods and strengthens economies. For me, I hope that can have a huge impact across Africa.

You mentioned you were one of just a few women when you started your career. What action would you like to see taken to encourage more Black women to pursue a career in finance, business and technology?

The first thing I would say is advocacy. From a young age, many girls hear limiting messages like, “This career isn’t really for women” or “It’s going to be really tough, maybe you should consider something else”. I remember being in meetings where people say, “programming is quite hard, would you consider design?” And I’d think “What does that even mean?” Women can do hard things. And what is ‘hard’ anyway? What one person finds difficult, another might find intuitive.

We need to do a lot of work at those early stages, when young people are just starting to consider their career options. There are still so many voices saying, “You’re a woman,” or “You might want to start a family, so choose a career that fits around that.” But women are already out there doing incredible things. That narrative is outdated and needs to change.

We also need to amplify the voices and stories of women who are already thriving in finance, business and tech. When people see someone who looks like them succeeding, they know it is possible, and it helps them visualise it for themselves.

You have tapped into your creative side by writing a novel, Lagos to London. Can you tell us more about that process?

I’ve always had a way with words, even as a child. That is probably why I struggled to choose between science and the arts growing up. Over the years, I had started several books but never finished them, until I decided my first novel would be Lagos to London.

Although it’s fiction, the story is inspired by my own journey of leaving my family and moving to the UK to study. It was a life-changing experience, and I know so many other people have gone through something similar: leaving their home to pursue new opportunities. The book is about stepping into new environments, thriving and finding success.

I believe that everyone has a story to tell, but too often we put ourselves in a box. We think, “I work in tech” or “I’m an accountant”, and assume writing is something only a professional writer can do.

The writing process wasn’t as straight-forward as I imagined. I think a lot of people assume you sit down and write until the book is done. But for me, I started, and then life happened, and I paused for nearly two years before picking it back up again. I finally completed it during Covid. It took much longer than expected, but I’ve learned life is about the journey. So, if you’re stuck on page one of your book for years, don’t be discouraged!

I’d encourage everyone to explore something outside of their career – whether it’s dancing, writing, poetry, or something else entirely. Writing took me to another world and introduced me to a whole new industry. I didn’t realise that publishing was such a complex ecosystem – there are publishing houses, royalties, marketing, and so much more. I went into it with a story to tell, and came out having learnt and grown during the process.

You joined the Alumni Advisory Council earlier this year. What impact do you hope you can have?

It’s an honour to be part of the Alumni Advisory Council. For me, it’s about making sure there are strong regional ties and that alumni stay connected to the school to drive lasting impact. I believe in the vision of Imperial, especially the commitment to lifelong learning. There are so many ways we can learn beyond the classroom. We learn through networking and the connections we build too.

There’s so much value to be unlocked when alumni and the Business School stay connected. Imperial brings together some of the most innovative minds in the world, and when alumni engage, we can achieve so much more together.

This is a powerful community. There is so much opportunity to connect, build relationships, grow professionally, and share ideas that could have a global impact. Where else would you want to be?

What advice would you give to new ��ý, as they start their Imperial journey?

Be your own competition, not anyone else’s. Wake up every day and ask yourself, “How can I be better than I was yesterday?”. You’re on your own unique path and it’s not about comparing yourself to others. If you approach each day with that mindset, you’ll become unstoppable!

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Weekend MBA

8 minute read

Getting to know the new Alumni Advisory Council members

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Getting to know the new Alumni Advisory Council members

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

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30 July 2025

Alumni

Our new Alumni Advisory Council members gathered for their first meeting earlier this month, joining eight other current council members. As they officially begin their three-year tenure, we took the opportunity to find out more about what they hope to bring to the Council and the Business School community – and what they think is the best thing about being an Imperial alum!

From top left: Fejiro Amam (MSc Management 2022), Lola Aworanti-Ekugo (Weekend MBA 2018), Ansumana Bai-Marrow (Global Online MBA 2023), Rahul Bansal (Full-Time MBA 2009), Felicity Box (Full-Time MBA 2023), Tina Chen (Full-Time MBA 2018), Divyank Gupta (MSc Management 2019), Damla Khan (Weekend MBA 2023), Albert Li (MSc Management Science 1989), Foudil Mattoo (PhD 2009), Sofia Skevofylaka (MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management 2020), Jonathan Tai (MSc International Health Management 2024) and Kirk Zieser (MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance 2023), have all been selected to join the Council this July, each for a three-year term.

Embracing a global community

All thirteen of our new Council members have expressed their commitment to strengthening alumni connections around the world, with many highlighting the sense of community as one of the most valuable aspects of being an Imperial alum.

The best thing about being an Imperial alum is the lifelong access to a global network of innovative, driven, and intellectually curious professionals.
Albert Li, MSc Management Science 1989

London based Global Online MBA 2023 alum, Ansumana Bai-Marrow, told us that there is “genuine excitement amongst the alumni to remain connected with each other, and with the Business School and university.” These connections aren’t just limited to the UK. Our new Council members are based across four continents, and we will be working closely with them to ensure that alumni can get involved with their local alumni community, wherever they are based in world.

Damla Khan, Weekend MBA 2023, added, “Being based in Singapore, I’m especially passionate about strengthening regional ties and creating opportunities for connection, mentorship, and professional growth.” As a board member of the Hellenic Imperial Alumni Association, Sofia Skevofylaka, MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management 2020, has seen first-hand the benefits of regional connections, commenting that “wherever you go in the world, there’s an Imperial connection nearby ready to support and inspire you.” And with nearly 80 regional, alumni-led groups around the world, there are plenty of opportunities for alumni expand their networks.

Tina Chen, Full-Time MBA 2018, summed up our global community perfectly:
The global network of proud Imperial alumni and current ��ý makes me feel at home even when I'm abroad.

Cultivating a network of support

It’s no surprise that our new Council members are eager to give back to the community and support fellow alumni and the wider Business School network.

It’s so encouraging that, the overwhelming majority of the time, people jump at the chance to be helpful to a fellow Imperial alum.
Ansumana Bai-Marrow, Global Online MBA 2023

Divyank Gupta, MSc Management 2019, is particularly keen during his tenure to champion alumni engagement, mentorship, and talent development within the Imperial community. As a current Mentor to three Imperial ��ý, Jonathan Tai, MSc International Health Management 2024 is equally enthusiastic about supporting the next generation. Speaking about his mentees, Jonathan told us that “the joy I felt as they celebrated their achievements was as if they were my wins.”

Some of our alumni have been on the receiving end of mentorship and advice from other alumni and told us how much that support meant to them. Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022, said, ‘‘On multiple occasions, I’ve found great value in reaching out to fellow Business School alumni who have enthusiastically offered their support. I’m grateful to count many of them as friends and mentors who have contributed significantly to both my personal and professional journeys”.

Council members who graduated more recently are particularly well-placed to support our newsest alumni. Felicity Box, Full-Time MBA 2023 told us, “Being a recent graduate, I remember very clearly what it is like to be a student at the Business School, and the challenges of joining or re-joining the workforce soon after. I aim to enter conversations with this transition in mind, finding ways to make it easier for ��ý.” Fellow 2023 graduated Kirk Zieser, MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance added, “I’m proud to give voice to the thousands of alumni worldwide and particularly to represent young alumni, who play a key role in advocating for the Business School and often rely on the alumni network to develop their careers.”

Providing professional and strategic insights

All of our new Council members bring a wealth of professional and strategic insights, across a variety of industries and international markets.

I see this as an opportunity to support the alumni community with meaningful connections and ensure that Imperial’s influence continues to grow across industries and borders.
Foudil Mattoo, PhD 2009

Foudil, who has worked at energy trading companies in Europe and the Middle East, hopes to bring a global outlook and his professional network to the Council. Rahul Bansal, Full-Time MBA 2009, similarly brings a global perspective shaped by over two decades of experience across innovation, entrepreneurship, and the UN system. His focus will be on fostering collaboration across emerging markets, philanthropy, and purpose-led enterprises. Rahul added that he is particularly excited to “work with the wider alumni community to contribute towards Imperial’s leadership in sustainability that addresses the most pressing challenges of our time.”

Meanwhile, Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018, brings 20 years’ experience in fintech, financial services, and trade. She wants to support the long-term success of Imperial Business School by leveraging her global experience, professional insights and network, adding that she aims “to help foster a vibrant, value-driven alumni community that drives professional growth and enhances collaboration”.

Looking ahead

With such a diverse and passionate group of individuals, the Alumni Advisory Council is well positioned to strengthen Imperial’s global alumni network, foster meaningful connections, and support the next generation of leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.

They join current members, Joanne Linder (Full-Time MBA 1996), Elynor Chiu (Full-Time MBA 2011), Salwa Darraj (MSc Economics & Strategy for Business 2014), Andrew Fernando (MSc Finance 2007), Yann Helle (Weekend Executive MBA 2010), Adrian Matze (MSc Risk Management and Financial Engineering 2014), Roya Rahnejat (MSc Risk Management 2007) and Melanie York (Full-Time MBA) 1993).

We’re excited to see the impact they’ll make together, and how the wider alumni community can get involved in shaping the future of the Business School.

Find out more

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Volunteering

5 minute read

Thirteen alumni selected to join the Imperial Business School Alumni Advisory Council

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Thirteen alumni selected to join the Imperial Business School Alumni Advisory Council

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

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Imposter syndrome is something our careers consultants encounter frequently when supporting professionals through moments of growth, transition, and increased responsibility.

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Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

11 June 2025

Alumni

Following an application process, thirteen alumni have been selected to join the Alumni Advisory Council (AAC). Applications were open for a month between January and February this year, with nearly 100 applications submitted.

The Alumni Advisory Council represents our global community of nearly 40,000 alumni. They are some of the Business School’s strongest advocates and play a vital role in supporting our strategic initiatives and alumni activity. We strive for the Council to be representative of our alumni body, with a diverse range of graduation years, industry, programme of study and geographical locations. We are proud that our new cohort joining the Council represent four continents and nine different Business School programmes.

Celebrating the new Council members, Rebecca Martin, Head of Alumni Engagement (Business School), said:
I am delighted to welcome our new Alumni Advisory Council members. All thirteen alumni have already been contributing to the School in a variety of ways, and I am so pleased they have all agreed to continue that support for the Business School and all of you – our alumni. I know that they will be fantastic representatives for the community.

They will be joining current members, Joanne Linder (Full-Time MBA 1996), Elynor Chiu (Full-Time MBA 2011), Salwa Darraj (MSc Economics & Strategy for Business 2014), Andrew Fernando (MSc Finance 2007), Yann Helle (Weekend Executive MBA 2010), Adrian Matze (MSc Risk Management and Financial Engineering 2014), Roya Rahnejat (MSc Risk Management 2007) and Melanie York (Full-Time MBA) 1993).

In May 2025, Josh Liu (Full-Time MBA 2005), Victoria Reanney (Executive MBA 2005) and Tennessee Watt (MSc Management 2028) completed their terms as Alumni Advisory Council members. We are incredibly grateful for all the support they have given the Business School and alumni community. Chair of the Council, Joanne Linder (Full-Time MBA 1996) will be stepping down in October 2025, and the process to find a new chair is ongoing.

Meet your new Alumni Advisory Council Members:

Having served as DSAC President and SSC Chair during his studies, Fejiro Amam (MSc Management 2022), represents the voice of recent alumni. Since graduating, Fejiro has worked primarily in consulting and tech, including roles at Bain & Company and Xero.

Lola Aworanti-Ekugo (Weekend MBA 2018) was the winner of the Emerging Alumni Leader Award, at the Imperial Alumni Awards in 2024. Founder of AfriBorder, she has led major digital initiatives, advised African governments on tech-driven growth, and serves on several boards.

Ansumana Bai-Marrow (Global Online MBA 2023) is also on the committee for Imperial’s Black Alumni Network, helping to inspire and support Black heritage alumni. He is the UK Head of Compliance at Permira Credit.

Rahul Bansal (Full-Time MBA 2009) has served as a mentor and volunteer for social enterprises and is currently an Honorary Visiting Fellow at Imperial. He wants to bring a global perspective shaped by over two decades of experience across innovation entrepreneurship as well as in the UN system.

As one of our most recent graduates, Felicity Box (Full-Time MBA 2023) is well-placed to provide support to those preparing to graduate themselves. She is currently Senior Solutions Engineer at Sweep, working with complex organisations to solve their ESG data challenges.

Tina Chen (Full-Time MBA 2018) is the founder of social enterprise, HumaniTea. She regularly visits Imperial to support current ��ý and alumni, whether by giving talks about her entrepreneurial journey, getting involved with the Enterprise Lab or acting as a peer mentor.

Divyank Gupta (MSc Management 2019) is currently Global Category Manager in Medical Affairs R&D at GSK. Divyank is a champion for alumni engagement, and has played an active role in the alumni community since graduating, including mentoring ��ý and hosting alumni meet-ups.

Based in Scotland and Singapore, Damla Khan (Weekend MBA 2023) brings a global perspective and entrepreneurial spirit to the Council. She is the founder of education service company Brainsteins, and is part of the Imperial Entrepreneur’s Pledge, supporting future innovators.

Based in Hong Kong and Singapore, Albert Li (MSc Management Science 1989) wants to use his role on the Council to strengthen alumni networks in Asia. He is a finance and AI professional with over 40 years of experience across IPOs and tech investments.

Foudil Mattoo (PhD 2009) is a director of a consulting firm that specialises in building models for asset valuation and risk management for energy markets trading. With experience across international markets, he would like to bring his global outlook to the alumni community.

Sofia Skevofylaka (MSc Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Management 2020) plays an important role within the Imperial Alumni Association of Greece, organising numerous events and networking opportunities for alumni based in the country. She is the CCO & Cofounder of a management consultancy.

Jonathan Tai (MSc International Health Management 2024) graduated from the Business School earlier this month, having already completed his medical degree at Imperial. He is a GP at Nuffield Health, an NHS Urgent Care Doctor, Alumni Mentor and Medical Advisor of HealthTech startups.

Kirk Zieser (MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance 2023) is based in the USA, working for Broward County Resilient Environment Department in Florida. He is a strong advocate for the alumni network and is eager to foster the same sense of community for alumni that he enjoyed as a student.

Find out more

Visit our Alumni Advisory Council

Volunteering

4 minute read

Alumni profile: Ivan Kovynyov, founder of the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Alumni profile: Ivan Kovynyov, founder of the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Imposter syndrome is something our careers consultants encounter frequently when supporting professionals through moments of growth, transition, and increased responsibility.

13 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

31 January 2022

Alumni

This year sees the 50th anniversary of the very first Pride March in the UK in 1972 and this LGBT+ month the focus is on ‘The Arc Is Long’, highlighting the continuous journey towards full equality. We spoke to members of our alumni community who told us why it is still so important to champion LGBT+ rights and the role that organisations can play in supporting and educating their staff.

The LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

Ivan Kovynyov (Weekend MBA 2020) founded, and was President of, the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club at Imperial Business School back in 2018. The club, which has continued to grow from strength to strength, provides a platform connecting ��ý and alumni with companies and organisations hiring in a more inclusive manner.

“My aim in creating the club was to promote the interests of students who identify as LGBTQ+ and Allies, to help companies across the industries recruit and retain more inclusively, to encourage the self-identification of LGBTQ+ colleagues and increase LGBTQ+ visibility among senior executives and at a board level.”

How can organisations be more inclusive

Now the Practice Lead in Tech Advantage Consulting & Advisory at Zühlke Group, Ivan shares his thoughts on how organisations can support their LGBTQ+ staff and create an inclusive atmosphere:

“Many businesses have already undertaken significant steps towards a more inclusive workplace by ensuring equal promotion chances, tackling homophobic bullying and supporting the coming-out process in a workplace. As well as adopting practices to attract and retain LGBTQ+ talent.

Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has elevated my self-esteem and gave me strength in my professional and private live.

“However, there is still a large number of practical issues to be solved: offering assistance and parental leave for both partners, including bereavement leave and transgender medical coverage, installing gender-neutral toilets and others. Addressing the implicit bias towards the LGBTQ+ people should be one of the top priorities across the businesses.”

“The societal developments of the recent decades have set the foundations for an inclusive future. It is crucial to keep this momentum and secure the achievements of the recent past. For this reason being supportive of the LGBTQ+ community and colleagues is more important than ever."

Moving forward

Looking back, Ivan reflects that he was not as confident as he is now in talking about his personal life and how it crossed over into the workplace:

“Founding the Imperial LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club back in 2018 has been part of my professional coming-out. It is so nice to see how the club has developed over the last years and the many things it has done to support a more inclusive workplace. However, back in 2018, it was very challenging for me to stand up and talk about my identity to the broader public. Luckily, so many people have encouraged me and helped me my along the way. From many conversations with my supporters, I have learned that you should never let fear, insecurity and doubt prevent you from pursuing your dreams and following your agenda.

“This has been a big takeaway for me. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has elevated my self-esteem and gave me strength in my professional and private live.”

Culture and Inclusion

Volunteering

Programme

Weekend MBA

2 minute read

Alumni profile: Alberta Asafo-Asamoah

Francesca Hoare — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Alumni profile: Alberta Asafo-Asamoah

Francesca Hoare Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Imposter syndrome is something our careers consultants encounter frequently when supporting professionals through moments of growth, transition, and increased responsibility.

13 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

4 November 2021

Alumni

Alberta Asafo-Asamoah (Full-Time MBA 2021): inspiring entrepreneur, aspiring social impact investor and Women of the Future Awards MBA Star joint winner!

As an outgoing MBA student from the Business School, Alberta has already demonstrated outstanding leadership skills with her hard work earning her the Dean’s Impact Scholarship Award, as well as the Edie Hunt Inspiration Award, the best business pitch idea at Imperial’s Pitch ‘n’ Mix and also admission into the Black Valley accelerator programme.

We spoke to Alberta about her time at the Business School, her creative initiatives to tackling social problems and her commitment to helping SMEs achieve scale.

My time at Imperial

During my time at the Business School, I was an active volunteer, holding various leadership positions such as the Vice President of ImperialMBAWomen, a student-led club that seeks to bring together women across all Imperial’s MBA programmes and to celebrate their initiatives.

I was honoured to be the first European co-award recipient of the Edie Hunt Inspiration Award - a global award organised by the Forté Foundation celebrating the contribution that an individual has made to her school or community to advance women into business leadership positions.

I was also the Employer Relations’ Director for Africa Business Club and my goal was to help facilitate the club’s mission to connect Imperial talent to Africa-based opportunities, promote BAME talent within Imperial and beyond, and create industry specific content to bring BAME businesses and professionals into mainstream focus. I was able to form relationships with businesses and represent the Club on panels such as Imperial’s Employer forum to discuss how companies can build stronger relationships with Imperial student clubs.

By supporting emerging social impact enterprises and young entrepreneurs, I hope to open up opportunities for them and empower them to achieve their potential.

My current role and responsibility

I have spent a majority of my career in corporate banking, building relationships with businesses with turnover of ￡50m+ in the UK and providing debt finance to aid in their growth. After over four years in banking, I decided to combine my passion for social development and finance by pursuing a career in entrepreneurship and impact investing.

During this transitional phase, I founded AlgebraInTheCity (“AITC”) in 2018, an educational tuition and consulting business, to help bridge the educational attainment gap. I realised that there was a disparity in the curriculum used in selective schools, which encouraged problem-solving, in comparison to lower-income districts, which took a linear approach.

Since inception, I have developed my own method of teaching for young ��ý between the ages of 9 and 16, many who have successfully secured entrance into competitive schools and obtained excellent results.

My hope is to develop AITC by creating free educational content online, with free maths instructional videos for ��ý aged between 11 and 16, which focus on the KS3 and KS4 GCSE curriculum in the United Kingdom, the WAEC syllabus across the West African countries and SAT/SSAT/ACT for schools that use the U.S curriculum. I also want to further explore my entrepreneurial goals by digitising AITC and making 11+ and selective exam resources available on the platform which I hope to launch shortly.

Through AITC’s community outreach programme, I have been involved in managing the operations of two charities called ‘Little Cherubs Kids Club’ and ‘Fantastic Learning’. It has been a privilege to support their tremendous growth, as well as develop the programme syllabi and lead on sourcing funding for the business.

The future

My vision is to lead social impact projects in London and across Africa. To this end, I have successfully secured a role as a Senior Investment Analyst for a new gender equity fund managed by a global venture capital fund. I will be a consultant for the firm, working to support over 100 women-led enterprises in Africa on their mission to create social, environmental and economic impact by sourcing and evaluating investments for their business.

Separately, over the past year, I have also been working on developing a tech-focused fashion e-commerce platform for the African market. After recognising the gaps in the fashion ecosystem, namely lack of access to variety and quality brands across the continent, the limited financial support for emerging brands to grow and other infrastructure problems, I saw a need for a fashion and beauty platform tailored to the needs of local consumers.

My ultimate goal is to support local brands, promote sustainable shopping habits and in the long term, expand the business model to incorporate grant and microfinance products for designers. By supporting emerging social impact enterprises and young entrepreneurs, I hope to open up opportunities for them and empower them to achieve their potential.

Programme

3 minute read

Alumni Q&A: Irfan Khan (MBA 2000)

Francesca Hoare — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:26:19 +0000

Alumni Q&A: Irfan Khan (MBA 2000)

Francesca Hoare Thu, 27/02/2025 - 09:26

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

6 November 2025 Alumni

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

22 October 2025 Alumni

Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018, is the founder of AfriBorder, a company which is revolutionising financial services and international trade across Africa through technology.

21 March 2025

Alumni

Irfan Khan completed his MSC in Engineering & Physical Science in Medicine at Imperial before going on to study for his MBA at Imperial Business School in 2000. Irfan is a visionary leader with over 25 years of experience dedicated to transforming healthcare in emerging markets, particularly in South Asia and Africa. As the Group CEO of Evercare Healthcare Group, he oversees a network of hospitals and clinics, pioneering patient-centered, sustainable healthcare systems. Renowned for his strategic foresight and empathy-driven leadership, Irfan has championed initiatives that enhance healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality. His legacy includes fostering talent development, advancing digital health innovations, and building resilient systems to serve underserved communities. Irfan's work exemplifies a lifelong commitment to ethical, impactful healthcare leadership.

How did your studies at Imperial help inform your career in the healthcare sector?

Having come from an engineering background, my MSc in Engineering & Physical Science in Medicine at Imperial was my first experience of working in healthcare. We had the opportunity to work with clinicians and doctors, and it helped me to gain a much deeper understanding of medicine. I did my MBA at Imperial a few years later, which brought together the two pieces of the puzzle, business and medicine, to give me a holistic understanding of the healthcare industry.

My specialisation during my MBA was customer-focused strategy, which has been key to my work in hospitals. Healthcare is an emotional industry—you are dealing with people who are unwell, often someone’s friend or family member—so understanding a patient-centric approach was incredibly important.

Imperial's strength lies in its diverse student body and wide range of courses. Pursuing my MBA at a STEM-focused university was highly beneficial, as it naturally integrated science, technology, and medicine concepts.

What professional achievement are you most proud of?

For me, the standout achievement is about the people I work with. I think one of the major mandates of leadership is to build other leaders, not to just have followers, and I’m very proud of the talent I’ve helped to nurture in the countries we work in.

At Evercare, we operate in the emerging markets such as Kenya, Nigeria and Pakistan. It can be the case that future leaders in these markets end up leaving the country and taking their skills elsewhere. I have taken a personal interest in identifying, developing, and retaining future leaders within the countries where we operate.

There is no single formula for identifying aspiring leaders. The most important quality is a strong desire to learn. We can then get them the opportunities and qualifications they need to move forwards.

What do you think are the most important qualities for someone in a leadership position?

When you are in a leadership position, being a good communicator and an empathetic leader is very important.

I’d also say integrity for leaders is key. This is especially the case in a sector like healthcare where quality, ethics and patient safety must be paramount. In healthcare, we are responsible for people's lives, so there can be no compromise.

I work across lots of different cultures and countries, and there is one basic principle which applies everywhere, which is respect. You must be humble and willing to learn from each other.

What drew you to study in the UK and Imperial?

I chose Imperial for its reputation. Whenever I watched science or technology news, many of the experts featured were from Imperial. I think London is an amazing city to be a student in – it’s diverse, accepting and so well connected. It was a no-brainer really!

What does it mean for you to be an alumnus of Imperial?

Studying at Imperial is one of the best decisions I made in my life! When you tell people where you did your degree, it automatically brings a level of respect to the table. I have spent a good 25 years building my career and I think a lot can be attributed to the solid foundation I got from Imperial.

It’s important for me to give back—whether by giving talks or providing opportunities for Imperial ��ý to gain work experience in our hospitals.

The world is increasingly complex, with many career options available. I want to help ��ý navigate these opportunities. Many people may not consider a career in healthcare unless they are doctors or nurses. However, it is an incredibly rewarding field with diverse opportunities.

Programme

3 minute read

IWD 2025 - Sabine Haas (Executive MBA 2014)

Francesca Hoare — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:26:19 +0000

IWD 2025 - Sabine Haas (Executive MBA 2014)

Francesca Hoare Thu, 27/02/2025 - 09:26

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Imposter syndrome is something our careers consultants encounter frequently when supporting professionals through moments of growth, transition, and increased responsibility.

13 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

28 February 2025

Alumni

For International Women’s Day 2025, we interviewed Executive MBA alumnus Sabine Haas about her career and how we can address inequalities for women in the workplace.

Can you give us a brief overview of your career journey to date?

My career began in advertising, where I worked with global agencies such as Publicis, Grey Worldwide, and Ogilvy. During my time as a working student at IBM, I discovered the B2B world, which led to a career spanning over 17 years in global marketing, eCommerce, and digital strategy.

At DigiKey, RS Components, and TE Connectivity, I have focused on data-driven marketing strategies to connect with engineers and technical buyers. Throughout my career, I have seen how powerful data insights are in shaping market strategies, audience engagement, and digital transformation. Not assuming you already have the answer leads to deeper analysis, better decision-making, and more innovative solutions.

What learnings from your Executive MBA have you brought to your job?

I wouldn’t limit my learnings to my job but also to other aspects of life - the strong belief that I can achieve anything when I truly put my mind to it. Completing an Executive MBA while working full-time was challenging, but I successfully managed it while having a great time. So, what should hold me back from other challenges?
At Imperial, you truly feel that your opinion is valid and matters. Even if it differs from others, it is considered a valuable perspective. This is something I actively encourage in teams. We don’t need to agree on everything - groupthink often proves ineffective. I highly value and welcome differing opinions as they challenge my beliefs and foster growth. The worst thing that can happen in an organization is when people stop speaking up.
One of the most valuable lessons I realized later is that beyond technical skills, understanding organisational behaviour is critical. Thank you to Jonathan Pinto for providing invaluable business life lessons!

What drew you to study at Imperial?

For some reason, Imperial was always where I wanted to study. The mix of entrepreneurial culture, its strength in science, and its global reputation made it the perfect choice for me.

As we mark International Women’s Day, how can we encourage more women to pursue a career in the tech industry?

Early Exposure to STEM: We must start in schools by exposing ��ý to STEM fields and highlighting successful role models.
Mentoring and Sponsorship: Women need access to mentors who can provide guidance, support, and career development opportunities.
Inclusive Company Cultures: Organisations must implement policies that actively support diversity, equal pay, and career progression for women.
Visibility and Storytelling: More women in leadership roles should share their career journeys to inspire others.

Can you tell us more about any projects and initiatives you have worked on to help address inequalities and uplift women?

Through my involvement with WE United - a network that unites women and men to promote gender parity in the electronics and industrial industries - I have seen firsthand the power of mentorship, leadership development, and championing diversity. DigiKey is a platinum sponsor, and I am driving this initiative for DigiKey in EMEA.

Additionally, as a mentor and coach at Imperial London, I am passionate about supporting the next generation of leaders. The future of tech depends on creating spaces where diverse perspectives drive innovation.

My advice to women

Stay curious—keep learning, ask questions, and embrace new opportunities.
Don't apologise or make yourself small—be proud of your achievements. You’ve put in the work and earned them, so own them with confidence.
Support others—championing one another is key. Be an ally, celebrate achievements, and help create opportunities for others.
Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Success isn’t just about working hard - it’s about having advocates who recognize your potential, challenge you to grow, and actively support your career development.

Are there any women role models who have inspired you professionally or personally?

At DigiKey two incredible women inspire me: Stacy Hartmann and Linda Johnson.

Stacy Hartmann was one of my first managers at DigiKey, and I was always amazed by her deep understanding of all aspects of the business. She always knew the right people to connect with to get things done. She is open-minded, supportive, and ensures that her team has the resources and connections needed to succeed.
Linda Johnson, Executive VP of Operations at DigiKey, has had an astonishing career in our industry. Her knowledge, leadership, and dedication to supporting others—particularly through her work on the Advisory Council of WE United - are truly inspiring.

And, of course, Jackie Maddox, the founder of WE United. Jackie keeps pushing for equality and is relentless in her drive. Even when setbacks occur, she continues advocating for progress, proving that persistence is key to change.

You volunteer your time to Imperial running the Frankfurt chapter. What does it mean for you to maintain that connection with Imperial as an alumnus?

Dr. Lisa Weigand actually founded the chapter last year, so I won’t take credit for it! When I saw what she was doing, I reached out to her because I thought it was a great initiative. I had always hoped for a Frankfurt chapter, and now we are co-hosting it together. I’m grateful to have met Lisa through this experience and to be driving this initiative together with her. We have another session planned for Q1, so keep an eye out for updates in the Newsletter, Plexus, or LinkedIn.

Beyond that, I had a wonderful time at Imperial. Being surrounded by intelligent, dedicated people was both inspiring and fun.

I must admit, though, that returning to a traditional work environment after experiencing Imperial's dynamic and innovation-driven atmosphere sometimes required adjustment. The collaborative mindset and problem-solving approach I embraced at Imperial continue to shape how I engage with challenges in the workplace today.

Staying connected with Imperial alumni reminds me of that stimulating environment, provides opportunities to give back, and allows me to network with like-minded individuals who share a common background. It’s always great to take a trip down memory lane together!

I’d love to hear your personal story - please feel free to reach out on LinkedIn!

Culture and Inclusion

Executive MBA

Volunteering

Programme

Executive MBA

Celebrating International Women’s Day

5 minute read

Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022

Francesca Hoare — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:21:54 +0000

Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022

Francesca Hoare Wed, 12/02/2025 - 14:21

4 March 2026 Alumni

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

27 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Imposter syndrome is something our careers consultants encounter frequently when supporting professionals through moments of growth, transition, and increased responsibility.

13 February 2026 Alumni

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

16 October 2025

Alumni

Originally from Nigeria, Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022, currently works in the Strategy and Operations team for Xero, a cloud-based accounting software company. During his studies at Imperial, he served as DSAC President and SSC Chair, winning the Dean’s Community Award for Inclusive Business. Since graduating, Fejiro has kept his strong connection to Imperial by advising ��ý, attending events, and most recently, becoming a member of the Alumni Advisory Council.

Can you give us a potted history of your career journey to date?

After completing my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering at Loughborough University, I served for a year as Vice President of their Student Union. It was a senior role to take on so early in my career, and it accelerated my learning significantly.

It was while I was studying for my master’s at Imperial Business School that I became really interested in consulting. I was drawn to the idea of focused problem-solving and the opportunity to work across different industries.

After graduating, I worked as an Associate Consultant for a bit. I spent about half my time in the Private Equity group, completing commercial due diligence for various clients, and the other half in the general practice, working on a range of projects, predominantly in financial services and fintech. I realised fintech was where I wanted to focus long-term, so I pivoted in that direction.

That led me to my current company Xero, in the Strategy and Operations team. They are a cloud-based accounting software company that started in Australia and has since expanded into the UK and US markets. A big part of my role is figuring out how we can best serve our UK customers. What I enjoy most is the creative, problem-solving element - working with people across the business to take a goal and ask, “How do we actually get there?”

The theme for Black History Month this year is “Standing firm in power and pride". What are you most proud of?

It’s funny to me that this is still the thing I feel the most proud of, because there are other things I’ve done that I’m really proud of and grateful to have had the opportunity to do. But honestly, what stands out is that I started university really young, at 17, and moved from Nigeria to the UK by myself, having never been to the country before.

I found a way to settle into a new environment, and I know that’s something a lot of international ��ý go through. I think what makes me proud is how I just threw myself into it and did it all independently. I was living in a whole new country and starting a whole new life. Over time, I’ve built a community here of friends and people I care about. It’s been a process of branching out, going through this adventure, and coming out the other side relatively okay.

My advice for others in a similar situation is to embrace the adventure of it all. I think people can get scared or overwhelmed by the “newness” of everything, from the cold (which was a big shock for me!) to seeing so many different people from different parts of the world with their own traditions and ways of life.

But it is an adventure! You’re being exposed to so much - new ways of thinking, new ways of living, and new types of people. If you embrace it, rather than retreating or only sticking with people who are just like you, I think you become a more well-rounded person. It’s certainly the approach I took. I just went headfirst into everything, and I think I’m better off for it.

How do you think leaders can use their own power to empower others?

There’s a lot of attention placed on a leader’s ability to lay out a vision and inspire people to move in the direction of that vision. I do think that’s important, but if we’re talking about making people feel empowered, I think it goes a long way to give people agency. To ask for their opinion, lean into it, and give them the opportunity to express themselves and make decisions.

This is something I’ve experienced myself recently. Whenever I wasn’t sure about something, I’d say to my manager, “This is kind of a big decision”. I’d go to him and explain the problem, lay out a couple of options, and ask for help. And he’d always respond with something like, “Oh, that’s interesting. What do you think?” He’d push me to come out of just presenting options and actually make a decision and talk through why I thought one direction was the right one. More often than not, he’d say, “Yeah, that makes sense to me. Go do that.”

That was incredibly empowering. It made me feel like my opinion was valued. But more than that, it was empowering to receive deference from someone in a leadership position. It was someone leaning on my expertise and judgment, rather than just dictating the direction from the top down. I think that’s a really great skill in a leader.

You won the Dean’s Community Award for Inclusive Business while you were a student. Can you tell us a bit more about the initiative?

The idea first came about during my undergraduate studies at Loughborough University, where I served as the Chairman of the International Students Network. Every year we hosted International Day, an event that gave international ��ý the opportunity to showcase their culture through dedicated stalls. These featured everything from traditional artefacts to food and drink, allowing ��ý to express their heritage in an authentic way. It was a beautiful celebration of culture that not only made participants feel proud of their backgrounds but also invited others to learn and engage with cultures they might not have encountered before.

When I joined Imperial, I knew I wanted to try something similar. As President of the Dean’s Advisory Council, I helped organise our own International Day that welcomed over 100 ��ý.

From a breaking-barriers point of view, I think it made it easier for people to connect with cultures they potentially hadn’t before. I’m incredibly proud of the event and the impact it had. I loved seeing everyone enjoy themselves and build a deeper appreciation for different backgrounds and ways of living.

You joined the Alumni Advisory Council earlier this year. What impact do you hope you can have on the Business School and alumni community?

I think the really big value of the Imperial alumni community, like many alumni networks, is the sense of connection it builds. People are genuinely motivated to help each other as they leave university and embark on their career.

I’ve definitely been the kind of person who has reached out to follow alumni to ask questions about a job, or to ask for advice. I think that is an example of how having a community that is strong and connected, and that people are proud of, can help improve outcomes for all its members.

As a member of the AAC, I want to advocate for anything we can do to strengthen the connection people feel to the Imperial alumni community. I want to enable people to get as much value out of the community as possible, whether that is through outreach, events, or creating opportunities for people to meet and connect.

I also think it’s important for the School to consider how its decisions impact the long-term outcomes for alumni. Not necessarily prioritising alumni over everything else, but keeping us in mind as part of the broader conversation.

Ultimately, what I’m hoping to achieve is a stronger, more engaged community. A more perfect union, if you will!

What are the benefits of staying connected as an alum?

Imperial is one of the best universities in the world and attracts very smart people who go on to do amazing things. There is so much value in having access to that group of people, whether you want to have mentorship, build something together or just throw ideas around. It wouldn’t ordinarily be that easy to access so many talented people!

More than that, these are people who want to help you. I feel that sense of connection with fellow Imperial alums as we’ve had that shared experience, and you feel a sense of solidarity. You may not even have a connection to some of these people, but you still get a sense of them wanting to help you on your journey.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt so far?

A huge life lesson, and a principle I try and live by, is focusing on useful I can be, whether that is with friends or in the workplace.

I don’t mean that in a transaction sense of “what can I do for you, so you can do something for me”. I mean genuinely asking “how can I meaningfully contribute to the people and situations around me?”

I think approaching anything with that mindset helps you make better decisions, become more professional, and be a stronger contributor to whatever you are a part of. For example, in moments at work where things feel unclear, perhaps the next step in a project isn’t obvious, it’s easy to freeze or wait for someone else to give direction. But if you approach that situation with the question “How can I be useful to the people around me?” it forces you to be more proactive. Maybe others are also feeling stuck or overwhelmed. So, look for ways to help such as gathering more information, offer to take something off someone’s plate, or just be a sounding board.

When you apply that principle on a bigger scale, I think that it can lead to a life that is much more purposeful. You start thinking, how can I be useful to my community, to my friends, to my family, and you begin to find ways you can improve the lives of the people around you. When you start to see the real impact of that further down the line, it can be hugely motivating.

A new cohort of Business School ��ý started out on their Imperial journey last month. What advice would you give them?

I’d reiterate what I said earlier about embracing the adventure of it all, even it feels overwhelming at first. Look for exciting things you can do, meet new people or try a new club. Embrace the variety that London and Imperial have to offer.

Secondly, I would say have fun! Yes, it is a university, and the aim is to learn and earn your degree. However, I think that a part of your personal growth is about more than what you learn in the classroom, it is also about meeting people and developing as a human being. So, make sure you enjoy yourself along the way.

Finally, I would say make the most of the support and facilities available to you at Imperial. For example, I really benefited from the Careers Service and the Imperial Enterprise Lab. It can be helpful to start thinking sooner rather than later what life might look like after university, so be proactive and make sure you use the support on offer as much as possible.

Volunteering

Programme

MSc in Management (MiM)

8 minute read

Volunteering

Alumni Advisory Council: New Chair and Vice-Chair appointed

Alumni Advisory Council: New Chair and Vice-Chair appointed

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

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Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

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Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

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Getting to know the new Alumni Advisory Council members

Getting to know the new Alumni Advisory Council members

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

Embracing a global community

Cultivating a network of support

Providing professional and strategic insights

Looking ahead

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Thirteen alumni selected to join the Imperial Business School Alumni Advisory Council

Thirteen alumni selected to join the Imperial Business School Alumni Advisory Council

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

Meet your new Alumni Advisory Council Members:

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Alumni profile: Ivan Kovynyov, founder of the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

Alumni profile: Ivan Kovynyov, founder of the LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

The LGBTQ+ and Allies Business Club

How can organisations be more inclusive

Moving forward

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Alumni profile: Alberta Asafo-Asamoah

Alumni profile: Alberta Asafo-Asamoah

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

My time at Imperial

My current role and responsibility

The future

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Alumni Q&A: Irfan Khan (MBA 2000)

Alumni Q&A: Irfan Khan (MBA 2000)

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Joanne Linder, Full-Time MBA 1996

Black History Month: Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, Weekend MBA 2018

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IWD 2025 - Sabine Haas (Executive MBA 2014)

IWD 2025 - Sabine Haas (Executive MBA 2014)

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

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Celebrating International Women’s Day

Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022

Fejiro Amam, MSc Management 2022

Besnik Mustafa (Weekend MBA 2025)

Alumni Careers: Understanding imposter syndrome and career growth

Alumni Careers: Helping Alumni Stay Visible and Valuable in the Age of Remote Work and AI

Can you give us a potted history of your career journey to date?

The theme for Black History Month this year is “Standing firm in power and pride". What are you most proud of?

How do you think leaders can use their own power to empower others?

You won the Dean’s Community Award for Inclusive Business while you were a student. Can you tell us a bit more about the initiative?

You joined the Alumni Advisory Council earlier this year. What impact do you hope you can have on the Business School and alumni community?

A new cohort of Business School ��ý started out on their Imperial journey last month. What advice would you give them?