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By: Camila Batres

May 18, 2023

Dubai greeted me warmly with a welcoming atmosphere for residents and tourists alike. It amazed me how comfortable the city has become with foreigners, instantly putting me at ease. I eagerly delved into the local business environment, exploring beyond the usual tourist spots. This hands-on approach gave me a deeper understanding of Dubai's growth as a global business hub.

Connections made in Dubai were remarkable. Carl, our primary partner at Visa, went beyond a professional relationship, showing genuine interest in getting to know us personally. Our encounter with the CEO of NowMoney validated our hard work and inspired us to pursue innovation and entrepreneurship further. These connections emphasized the value of networking and lasting relationships.

Interaction with the host country's culture was also extraordinary. I immersed myself in bustling markets, savored local cuisine, and even had the privilege of meeting Emirati royalty, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan who shared unique insights into his vision of Dubai's future with the class. Visits to NYU Abu Dhabi and the Museum of the Future also showcased the UAE's educational and technological landscape, emphasizing knowledge, technology
and innovation. 

A memorable moment was our final dinner cruise where we celebrated our accomplishments. The vibrant dance floor, set against the stunning cityscape, united participants from diverse backgrounds. My classmates in the Botho Emerging Markets team created a magical ambiance with Afro, Latino, and Arab music blending seamlessly. We danced, laughed, and created lasting memories, cherishing the transformative power of shared experiences.

This program differed significantly from on-campus courses at GWSB. It blended academic learning with practical experiences in an international setting. Immersion in Dubai's business environment broadened my horizons, offering unparalleled educational and personal growth opportunities. Overall, my Dubai experience was enriching academically and personally. The connections made, cultural experiences, and insights into business and technology will have a lasting impact on my journey.

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By: Jesse 

May 23, 2023

My CAP experience as finally come to a close. I embarked on an amazing and transformative adventure with my classmates to Dubai, UAE. The experience left an indelible mark on me, opening my eyes to the vast opportunities and cultural diversity present in the international business landscape. 

One of the most significant takeaways from my experience in Dubai was realizing the profound depth and richness of the international business landscape. The intricacies of conducting business within the UAE, particularly the unique free-zone model designed to foster foreign direct investment, made me understand that there is a sea of hidden depths when conducting international business. I now understand that there is much more to learn about this subject, and I am eager to explore it further.

Jesse (second from left) pictured with members of his CAP team and
Industry Partners

That being said, the skills and knowledge I acquired during the program have already begun to shape my daily life both professionally and academically. Professionally, the connections I made and the invaluable insights shared by industry experts have provided me with a solid foundation as I pursue a career in consulting. Additionally, the experience of working closely with a client, preparing, and delivering presentations, has boosted my confidence and equipped me with invaluable strategies and techniques. Experiencing the Middle East firsthand has also forever changed my worldview. While Dubai’s tolerance and internationality is unique within the larger region, its international allure and multicultural fabric allowed me to glimpse the accessibility and potential for the wider region. 

On a more personal level, immersing myself in this program, I’ve been introduced to a diverse group of successful individuals from various backgrounds. Their stories demonstrated that success does not follow a linear path and that goals can evolve along the way. This realization has shifted my perspective, allowing me to be more adaptable and open-minded in navigating the twists and turns of my own journey. 

As I bid farewell to Dubai, I carry with me a newfound appreciation for the complexities of international business and the diverse opportunities it presents. The experiences and knowledge gained during this program will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors, both professionally and academically. Dubai has forever imprinted itself in my heart, leaving me with cherished memories and a broader understanding of the world we live in.

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By: Jesse 

May 14, 2023

It’s been a week since my classmates and I began our incredible adventure in Dubai. I’ve come to appreciate how this city is a land of fascinating contrasts, where modern skyscrapers coexist with the timeless beauty of the desert. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by a scorching desert sun. Eager to explore, I ventured out to iconic landmarks like La Mer, the Dubai Frame, and Jumeriah Mosque.

As the program began, I discovered a unique blend of business practices in Dubai. English being widely spoken made it easier to navigate the professional landscape. However, I learned from out guest speakers that the local customs and traditions remain deeply rooted, reminding us to embrace cultural nuances when conducting business. It was an eye-opening experience that broadened my perspective on global entrepreneurship. Further immersing myself in the local culture, I seized the opportunity to sharpen my bargaining skills when we took a group trip to the Grand Souk. Later in the week, my CAP partner surprised us with a truly remarkable experience – a meeting with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a member of royalty. This encounter left an indelible mark on our journey, as we realized the significance of the relationships formed and the doors that open through such connections. It was a humbling reminder of the power of networking and the value of genuine experiences.

Not only has this program been a great for new experiences, but it has also provided us the space to grow closer as classmates and friends. Exploring together, sharing cultural encounters, and embracing new experiences fostered a bond that transcended the classroom. These connections will undoubtedly endure, serving as a reminder of the strength and diversity within our MBA cohort. To this end, the CAP experience has thus far been incomparable to anything else I’ve done at GW. 

 

To compare CAP to traditional on-campus courses would be an injustice. The experiential learning model exposed us to invaluable lessons beyond the realms of textbooks. We delved into a new culture, a different way of life, and a thriving business hub, expanding our understanding of the world. This opportunity has been a transformative part of our education, molding us into well-rounded global leaders. I can’t wait to see what exciting new adventure we get into tomorrow.

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By: Jesse 

May 7, 2023

My CAP journey has me placed in Dubai, one of the most fascinating cities in the world. It's a modern, multicultural city that's also steeped in tradition and history. I can't wait to explore the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and the breathtaking Dubai Fountain. I’m also really looking forward to experiencing the vibrant culture and trying
new foods.

I have had the honor of being partnered with Botho Emerging Markets Group, a consulting firm founded by Ghanaian entrepreneur Isaac Kwaku Fukuo in 2006. Their mission is to connect investors, companies, governments, and non-profits who are interested in the world’s fastest growing markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Botho has been a leader in guiding organizations to success in some of the world’s newest industries, and they are now looking to bring the African creative economy to the Middle East. 

To get ready for the trip I’ve been busy practicing my Arabic, mentally preparing for the crazy hot weather, and making my final checks packing my suitcase. I'm most excited about meeting my clients after an amazing semester working with them. However, I'm also a little nervous because I want to give them a good presentation! Working with my team and client partner has been amazing. Botho tasked us to discover the most lucrative creative industries across Africa and determine how best they can be monetized for a Middle Eastern market. After extensive research, our team has identified two cultural festivals as the focal points of our investigation: WeLovEya Festival (EYA) and the Lagos International Jazz Festival. These festivals are full of creative energy, and I can't wait to finalize all the last-minute details of our presentation in Dubai! As I prepare to leave, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible opportunity that GWSB and the G&EE team have given me. I'm excited to share my journey with you all and document every moment on this blog. 

 

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