I am a PhD candidate in International Business Management with a specialization in Finance, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. I hold an MBA from GIBS and have thirty years of corporate experience in the mining sector, having worked with diamonds, platinum, coal, and gold. My area of expertise is sustainability, and I currently work for a gold mining company where I support the company’s vision to empower communities and advance societies.

My focus is on identifying and implementing high-impact community projects to address our mining legacy and ensure responsible social closure of mines. This role seeks to define a standard for the organization globally to leave host communities with sustainable livelihoods and viable economies long after mining has ceased.

I was drawn to ISM during the COVID-19 lockdown when I had spare capacity and sought to acquire new skills. ISM's hybrid program and its selection of courses enticed me, and I wanted an international qualification to complement my MBA. After my application interview and exchange with Dr. Kommel, I had no doubt that this was the right decision.

What has been your most memorable experience at ISM so far? It could be a course, an event, or a specific interaction that had a significant impact on you.

Where do I even begin? There have been so many! I think ISM as a whole—its academics, fellow students, the lessons learned, and the camaraderie—has been a powerful force. My journey has been fabulous, with every interaction, touchpoint, and class being rewarding. I have not had a moment of regret. It has been an adventure that has helped me grow significantly as a leader. The self is much stronger than ever. I am eternally grateful for the lessons and the beauty that is Paris.

How do you think ISM is helping you achieve your career goals? Share specific skills, knowledge, or experiences that have been particularly beneficial.

ISM has opened up a wider window of opportunities for me. The dissertation process alone has revealed many possibilities for a second career. Concepts like Mindful Leadership and transcending levels of consciousness from just surviving to collaborating and interconnecting stand out strongly. The collective power is much more potent than individual power. At my age, chasing a career is not the goal; finding meaning in life is much more compelling. My program at ISM has provided an outlet that is both joyful and rewarding. And of course, I have learned to ‘respect APA.’

What are your future aspirations after completing your program at ISM? Share what's next for you after your studies.

Who knows? The possibilities are endless. The challenge is dedicating time to do it all while ensuring my qualification counts for something. It would be sad not to monetize my ISM investment. Watch this space! But first, a month-long holiday in a very happy place somewhere in the world where there is nature, beautiful landscapes, and glorious sounds.