Before I started my MBA studies, I was working in a multinational bank as an operational manager and running a part-time evening theatre in Mumbai. I researched MBA programmes at over 20 universities in the UK before settling on the Liverpool MBA.
Why did you choose the Liverpool MBA?
I fell in love with the University of Liverpool campus and the city. Speaking to alumni of the programme helped to confirm my decision. While I was dissatisfied with my job, it was still a tough decision to leave my comfort zone to experience something new, however my time at the University of Liverpool Management School turned out to be life changing!
Which aspects of the MBA course do you think have been most beneficial to your career development?
The diverse student cohort, highly supportive staff, well organised curriculum and teamwork tasks helped me to learn new skills. Acting as a social representative allowed me to interact with other MBA students regularly and learn how to cope with new responsibilities. The programme content (particularly the finance and human resource management modules), and networking opportunities offered by the MBA Guest Speaker Series – where I learnt new ideas and concepts – proved invaluable when planning my own start-up. The regular exchange of ideas and experiences with other students has definitely enriched me. I’ve always had an inclination towards contributing in one way or the other to society. Even before joining the Management School, I regularly donated to charitable organisations in India. However, it was only during my MBA experience that I learnt about the contribution a start-up can make to society.
Can you describe your current role?
My business i-Solarlite aims to provide electricity to developing countries by harnessing solar renewable energy. The idea resulted from studying the non-electrification of rural communities as part of a corporate responsibility module. In 2013 I was delighted to win the top prize of £20,000 to invest in the business at the Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Award. Even though we call ourselves a ‘for-profit social enterprise’ the satisfaction of contributing to the lives of rural populations remains a game changer.