Global Experience Week

Global Experience Week in Nairobi, Kenya: how can business address inequality?

Rebecca Pike — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:31:29 +0000

Global Experience Week in Nairobi, Kenya: how can business address inequality?

Rebecca Pike Tue, 04/03/2025 - 09:31

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Features

Global Experience Week is a transformative opportunity for MBA ��ý to step beyond the classroom and immerse themselves in international business landscapes. Last year, the ��ý travelled to Nairobi, Kenya—a dynamic hub of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and economic growth. The theme of the trip, ‘How can business address inequality?’, was the driving force behind the journey. Through company visits, panel discussions and interactive sessions, ��ý explored how businesses can support closing economic and social gaps. This experience empowers ��ý to think beyond traditional business models and consider how innovation and entrepreneurship can drive meaningful change.

Full-Time MBA ��ý, Rishabh and Annelise, took up the opportunity to explore a new culture and travelled alongside the other MBA cohorts to Kenya. In this blog, Annelise reflects on her journey and its impact on her professional growth.

Rishabh daily insights from Kenya.

10 May 2024

I’m Rishabh, a Full-Time MBA student at Imperial. We finally landed in Nairobi! As this is my first time in Africa, I’m eager to understand its markets, technological landscape and socio-economic development.

The significance of Global Experience Week

The trip immerses us in the practical application of addressing inequality through business, encouraging us to reflect on the impact we want to make in our careers. This experience bridges academic learning with real-world challenges, enriching our personal and professional growth.

11 May 2024

Ahead of the educational sessions, we visited Nairobi Mamba Village today, home to a Crocodile Farm, Ostrich Centre and Giraffe Centre.

Working with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

Working with NGOs, which operate independently of government influence to address social and political issues, I learned the importance of grassroots initiatives and how impactful they can be in driving social change and community-focused solutions in business.

12 May 2024

Following our busy first day exploring Nairobi Mamba Village, we went on a stunning safari at Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, organised by the Business School, where we saw buffaloes, baboons, pelicans and much more. It was truly an unforgettable experience.

Sustainability in a global business context

I learned that sustainability in business requires a tailored approach, considering the unique socioeconomic and cultural contexts of each market to have a long-term impact, especially in Africa.

13 May 2024

After a few exciting days of exploring Kenya, we took part in a range of insightful sessions today:

Kartik Jayaram (McKinsey Kenya’s partner): we discussed economic development and sustainability in Kenya. The main takeaway was ‘there is no one Africa – each country in Africa experiences divergent development paths.’ For instance, there are vast differences between African economies such as Morocco and South Africa.
James Mwangi (Founder and CEO of Africa Climate Ventures): we explored the impact of climate change on Africa and the effects of COP28 on African carbon markets.
Carlotta Dal Lago (Head of Business Development at Africa Legal Network): an Imperial Executive MBA Alum! She discussed the Flip Flopi project - which turns recycled plastic into boats and furniture, and the challenges of being an entrepreneur.
Atiq Anjarwalla (Senior Partner at Africa Legal Network): he shared the inspiring journey of creating a pan-African law firm that combines legal, tax, regulatory and commercial advice

Understanding business in Africa

The sessions taught me that Africa cannot be viewed as a monolithic entity; diverse governance, culture and business operations require localised strategies. This insight has reshaped my global business perspective and challenged my previously western-centric views.

14 May 2024

Continuing with the educational element of our trip, we had engaging sessions with Roam Electric, Koko Networks, and Freehand Movement, gaining insights into sustainable business models and African entrepreneurship. We tackled a business challenge in groups, developing and pitching a marketing strategy for Roam.

Personal highlights from the trip

Going on safari in Maasai Mara after our week in Nairobi was the highlight of my trip. Witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat was awe-inspiring and reinforced the importance of environmental sustainability, not just for people but also for the broader ecosystem.

15 May 2024

Following yesterday’s insightful interactive sessions, we reflected on personal passions and purpose with Professor Tim Weiss, with an exercise to identify the confluence of the three P’s of our life – Passion, Purpose, Profit.

Later, we toured a coffee roastery, learning about the local coffee industry

Key takeaways

Innovative solutions: enterprises like Sanergy are driving impactful change within its community by providing private washrooms in low-income neighbourhoods then converting waste into fertiliser, creating a sustainable business ecosystem.

Sustainable transport: companies like ROAM (the pioneers of electric motorcycles) and BasiGo (leasing electric buses) highlight how sustainable transport can thrive with accessible financing.

Tailored business strategies: the unique aspects of each region in Africa emphasise the importance of adaptability and cultural sensitivity in global business operations.

16 May 2024

Today we had sessions with BasiGo and Regen Organics on investing in Kenya. Witnessing innovative solutions firsthand was inspiring.

Beyond the academic experience

While the sessions provided valuable business insights, the experience deepened my cultural awareness and reinforced the importance of understanding local contexts before doing business.

17 May 2024

It’s our last day! To close off our trip, we explored impactful healthcare innovations and discussed decolonising international development aid. We left Kenya reflecting on how we can create meaningful change.

Advice for Global Experience Week participants

Be open to new perspectives. Ask questions, embrace change, and take in every moment. The Global Experience Week is an incredibly transformative trip, and I feel privileged and grateful to have had this opportunity, it is something I’ll always carry with me.

The Global Experience Week in Nairobi was more than just a trip. From witnessing innovative business solutions to reflecting on the impact they want to make in their careers, this experience challenged ��ý’ assumptions, while highlighting the importance of cultural awareness and adaptability in global business. As they return to their studies, they take with them fresh perspectives, meaningful connections, and a deeper understanding of how business can drive change and challenge inequality.

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My Global Experience Week to Kenya: sustainability in business

Rebecca Pike — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:04:03 +0000

My Global Experience Week to Kenya: sustainability in business Rebecca Pike Mon, 22/04/2024 - 15:04

Global learning is a unique aspect of the Imperial MBA experience. In May, our Full-Time MBA and Weekend MBA ��ý travelled to Nairobi, Kenya, as part of their Global Experience Week.

Over the course of the week, ��ý had a chance to engage with local businesses and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), visit conservation areas and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Africa. This unforgettable experience allowed ��ý to broaden their understanding and perspective on the critical themes of inequality and sustainability in a global business context.

Caterina Menichelli, a Full-Time MBA student, and Bernard Gaimbu Takala, a Weekend MBA student, reflect on their experience in Nairobi, sharing key learnings around sustainability in business and how the trip has enriched their learning experience.

The Global Experience trip to Kenya was an eye-opening journey that offered deep insights into the challenges and opportunities present in the African business landscape. It was an immersive experience that combined academic learning with practical exposure, fostering a greater appreciation for the diversity and potential within the continent. Caterina Menichelli, Full-Time MBA

Caterina Menichelli, Full-Time MBA

My Kenya experience

During the trip, we undertook several key academic activities that significantly contributed to my professional growth. We participated in workshops with local businesses, where we analysed their business models and proposed strategic improvements. These sessions sharpened my consulting skills and allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

We also attended seminars on the economic landscape of Kenya, led by experts from various sectors. These seminars provided deep insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within the Kenyan market, enhancing my understanding of economic and political factors influencing business operations in emerging markets.

Overall, these academic activities not only enriched my knowledge but also equipped me with practical skills and a nuanced perspective on global business strategies.

Working with local Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs)

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

Understanding sustainability in business

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

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

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

Learning about sustainability at a local business

Understanding business in Africa

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

Tackling inequality in business

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

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

Exploring Nairobi

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

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

Caterina Menichelli and coursemates on safari

Key takeaways

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

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

Advice to other MBA ��ý

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

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

Bonding with coursemates in Kenya

Bernard Gaimbu Takala, Weekend MBA

My Kenya experience

The Global Experience Week to Kenya was very enlightening for me. It gave me a small insight into the dynamic and rapidly evolving business landscape of Africa. The trip offered a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of entrepreneurs and businesses, from a first-class legacy law firm to innovative startups in the sanitation sector. The experience underscored the immense potential for growth in Africa, especially with the anticipated influx of over 700 million young Africans into the labour force.

A sustainability standout

One standout example is Sanergy, a company we visited in Kenya that exemplifies the principles of a circular economy and closely aligns with the triple bottom line approach of People, Profit and Planet.

Sanergy operates a hybrid model that combines for-profit and non-profit arms to address the sanitation crisis in Nairobi's informal settlements. The model not only addresses environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting recycling but also contributes to social sustainability by improving public health and creating jobs for residents.

What I learnt about business in Africa

The trip reinforced that there is immense potential for innovation and growth on the continent. Understanding and adapting to local contexts is essential for successful business operations in different regions.

It highlighted the critical role of private enterprises in driving development and sustainability, while also raising important questions about the balance between private sector initiatives and government responsibilities.

28 May 2024

Student blog

Global Experience Week

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The Weekend MBA Global Experience Week to Iceland

Helen Richardson — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 12:16:35 +0000

The Weekend MBA Global Experience Week to Iceland Helen Richardson Tue, 23/11/2021 - 12:16

In September, the Weekend MBA class of 2020-21 set off on a trip of a lifetime to the spectacular country of Iceland for their Global Experience Week. This hands-on, cultural immersion module exposes MBA candidates to a new culture and business market. In today’s global business environment, it’s important for ��ý to adopt an international perspective, and the Global Experience Week is a chance to develop this important skill.

Iceland: a sustainable business hub

Every year our ��ý head to a different country for the Global Experience Week: in 2021 the destination was Iceland. Renowned for being a leader in sustainability, Iceland was the perfect place to learn about the latest innovations in renewable energy and green business practices.

Meeting their classmates at the airport, along with some ��ý from the Global Online MBA (this module is an option part of their programme), the group boarded the flight for a week-long adventure. Spending an entire week with their classmates is a great opportunity for the class to step away from the business of working while studying for their MBA part-time, and get to know one another better.

Throughout the week, ��ý heard from some of the most inspiring minds in Iceland. From business leaders, industry experts and politicians, these presentations shared insight into the shape of the business landscape in the country. They then had the chance to see some of these innovations in practice:

"We started one of the days by looking into the future of sustainable fishing and it involved having fish grown on land in a controlled environment. Every step of the process was really detailed in terms of energy use, wastage and planning."

Phillip Phrakaysone

Weekend MBA 2020-21

Outside of talks and networking, the ��ý experienced the stunning natural environment of Iceland. Walking through ice caves, climbing volcanoes and relaxing in the Blue Lagoon were all on the agenda.

The Global Experience Week isn’t just a trip to explore a new business market, but also a time to reflect and apply the knowledge learned over the course of the MBA:

"It’s been quite impressive to see how everything that I’ve learned in the past year and a half has contributed to a better understand of a business community."

Ioana David-Narby

Weekend MBA 2020-21

The Global Experience Week is part of the Weekend MBA programme and an optional module for the Global Online MBA. Modules may be converted to remote delivery subject to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

23 November 2021

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Global Experience Week

Global Experience Week in Nairobi, Kenya: how can business address inequality?

Global Experience Week in Nairobi, Kenya: how can business address inequality?

The ultimate guide to choosing a part-time MBA at Imperial

Do you feel like an imposter? Insights from Sophie Scott's Masterclass

From Bilaspur, India to London: building my global business outlook at Imperial Business School

Rishabh daily insights from Kenya.

10 May 2024

The significance of Global Experience Week

11 May 2024

Working with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

12 May 2024

Sustainability in a global business context

13 May 2024

Understanding business in Africa

14 May 2024

Personal highlights from the trip

15 May 2024

Key takeaways

16 May 2024

Beyond the academic experience

17 May 2024

Advice for Global Experience Week participants

Explore our programme

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My Global Experience Week to Kenya: sustainability in business

Caterina Menichelli, Full-Time MBA

My Kenya experience

Working with local Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs)

Understanding sustainability in business

Understanding business in Africa

Tackling inequality in business

Exploring Nairobi

Key takeaways

Advice to other MBA ������ý

Bernard Gaimbu Takala, Weekend MBA

My Kenya experience

A sustainability standout

What I learnt about business in Africa

The Weekend MBA Global Experience Week to Iceland

Iceland: a sustainable business hub

Are you interested in joining the next Weekend MBA cohort?

Advice to other MBA ��ý