MBA Student Profile: Ngareta Linehan

Upon receiving a distinction in my second MBA subject (Managing People and Organisations) I took the time to reflect on the opportunities I have received in my journey towards a purposeful career.  

In 2012, I made it my goal to achieve career satisfaction by obtaining a career that would allow me to make a positive impact in the world. I currently espouse this at New Business Assistance where I help people set up their own small/micro businesses. 

Whilst this journey has been fulfilling, it would not have been possible without the Women in Leadership MBA scholarship. This opportunity granted by the Business School provided me with immense financial support.

With both scholarship subjects now completed, some of my key learnings so far include:

• The productive outcome of healthy conflict
• The importance of psychological safety with regards to eliciting genuine responses
• The miracle of double diamond design thinking in uncovering creative solutions
• Realising that working together in a group we can leverage individual strengths and offer fresh perspectives on business problems. Together the whole is more significant than the sum of each person’s individual contribution
• When making organisational changes, sometimes, the small inexpensive things yield better results by moving people hearts and minds toward a new goal

On a personal level, I have come to understand the type of leadership style I want to adapt. I have also learnt to be more confident in myself, particularly when it comes to voicing my opinions and contributing in meetings. The MBA has also enabled me to see the bigger picture for my career where I am not just focused only on my immediate area of responsibility.

Whilst I’m not sure what my future holds, I believe that the MBA is positioning me to make a positive impact in some small corner of the planet.

I am filled with gratitude that I have been able to undertake the MBA and i am particularly thankful for the Women in Leadership scholarship in opening the door for me to commence my studies. The MBA has provided me with so many meaningful experiences, changing the trajectory of my life in such an inspiring manner. 

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