How can you be a global leader if you don’t understand parts of the world that you will lead? Those were the wise words from Dr. Lameck Osinde, one of my dear professors at Ivey Business School. His question sparked a realization in me. Before graduating from Ivey, I wanted an experience that would bring my leadership journey full circle—an experience that would broaden my perspective by seeing the world through a new lens. I aimed to explore new places, learn new perspectives, and forge new connections.
Fortunately, Dr. Osinde also coordinates the Ubuntu Management Education Initiative, and it was here that I was introduced to an incredible opportunity. The Ubuntu program offers Ivey students the unique chance to teach in one of five African countries: Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Ghana. In these countries, we demonstrate Ivey’s case-based method at host schools to equip local students with the tools to make a lasting impact in their communities. The opportunity was twofold: (1) to share knowledge with our African peers by introducing them to case-based learning, and (2) to share knowledge with our Ivey peers through the case studies we write, inspired by the real African businesses we encountered. So, in July 2024, I packed my bags and travelled to Rwanda for a month.
Flying Miles Outside My Comfort Zone
During my time in the Ivey MSc Digital Management program, I've experienced countless moments of growth that have shaped me into the kind of innovative leader who will define the next generation of business. There are many opportunities for this kind of transformation at Ivey, whether through the Ivey Essential Core Presentations, the Ivey Digital Innovation Conference (IDIC), or the Ivey Digital Innovation Studio (IDIS). But as excited as I was for this next experience, I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel waves of fear and doubt leading up to my departure for Africa. In those quiet moments, I thought about everything that could go wrong—being so far from home, barely knowing anyone, the language barrier, standing in front of an unfamiliar classroom, travelling alone for the first time, and navigating an entirely new country. But I reminded myself that you cannot suffer from what doesn’t exist. Why is it that our biggest fears are nothing more than imagination? So I didn't back out of going to Africa—and I'm so grateful that I didn't.
When I reflect on my life's best and most rewarding experiences, they all share one thing: they required me to step out of my comfort zone, and be comfortable with feeling uncomfortable somewhere along the way. There were many reasons to say no to going to Africa, but many more reasons to say yes. Now, I can confidently say that Africa was an unparalleled opportunity to push my boundaries, challenge myself, and engage with extraordinary people from across the globe.
Global Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Rwanda taught me invaluable lessons—ones you can’t get from a classroom. On a professional level, I gained a deeper understanding of the mindset and skills needed to thrive in today’s globalized world. One of the most important takeaways was learning to adapt my communication style—something constantly emphasized at Ivey. I learned to speak more calmly and with greater clarity. With English not being the primary language there, I refined my ability to simplify complex theories and convey context effectively across cultural and linguistic barriers. This experience also gave me a new level of confidence in speaking in front of unfamiliar audiences, no matter the situation. Ultimately, engaging the class, keeping everyone focused on the content, and adapting to the room became second nature.
Beyond professional growth, the personal lessons had the most profound impact. I connected strongly with the students and locals that I met in Rwanda, listening to their stories of happiness, resilience, perseverance, and ambition. Their narratives—and Africa’s as a whole—are far richer than what is often portrayed in the media, and I am grateful to carry these stories with me as part of my journey. I also immersed myself deeply in Rwandan culture, which reintroduced me to the value of patience and the art of being present. I experienced this through small but meaningful moments, like waiting 1-2 hours for meals at restaurants or waiting for students to arrive at class. Instead of relying on instant transportation, I found peace walking around Rwanda for hours without fully knowing where I’d end up (I averaged around 15,000 steps a day!). I relearned how to be comfortable with myself and my thoughts without distractions from my phone. In contrast to the fast pace of life in Canada, I found bliss in spending an entire afternoon at a coffee shop, simply sharing and listening to stories while watching the clouds move across the sky. As cliché as it may sound, Rwanda truly taught me to appreciate and take in every moment.
Final Thoughts
So, if there’s one thing I hope you take away from my experience, it’s this: You don’t have to say yes to everything, but finding a balance between the familiar and the unfamiliar is necessary for growth. Remember, it’s better to do something scared than not to do it at all. And above all, if you find yourself at the opportunity, travel! Explore every small crack, crevice, and corner that this world has to offer. You’ll find joy and discovery in new experiences, new friends, new hobbies, new places, and new knowledge.