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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. 

 

By: Camila Batres

May 5, 2023

Preparing for my upcoming trip to Dubai has reminded me of my last visit there six years ago. At that time I was fresh out of high school and unaware of the country’s cultural nuances. I'm eager to return as a business student and make the most of the city's learning opportunities. I plan to immerse myself in the culture, network with local professionals, and gain new insights to enhance my understanding of international business.

I am grateful to have an opportunity to travel with my classmates who have become like a second family to me. I look forward to sharing this adventure with them and creating unforgettable memories. I'm also a little nervous about navigating a new business environment in a new country. Nevertheless, I'm confident I'll take on the challenges and make the most of this fantastic opportunity.

My team’s work with our Industry Partner Visa has been a fascinating journey so far. Our project focuses on helping Visa promote circular economy practices such as buying and selling secondhand goods worldwide. This project presents exciting opportunities for sustainable growth. 

Initially, we narrowed the scope of the problem but our partner advised us to think more creatively. After stepping back and contemplating the bigger picture, we analyzed the UAE population and identified how most blue-collar workers could benefit from recommerce practices. Our partner has been impressed by how we took their suggestions and reinvented our way of thinking. Witnessing the evolution of our partnership with Visa over the semester has been truly remarkable.

So far CAP has been an incredible learning opportunity for me as a business student. I'm grateful for the chance to work with Visa and my team and I'm excited to see where this journey takes us. I plan to continue learning and growing with my classmates and partner once we get to Dubai!