Embracing diversity and empowering global talent at CUHK Business School
CUHK Business School is dedicated to nurturing future leaders who will drive impactful change in business in the region and beyond. It is home to young talent hailing from around the world who are eager to fulfil their potential through its holistic education, forge lifelong relationships, and immerse themselves in the vibrant city.
Lavanya Anthwal (GLEF, Year 3) discovered her enduring passion for the study of economics during her high school years in India, and this passion has only grown stronger during her time at CUHK Business School. As a student of the Global Economics and Finance Programme, Lavanya values the fresh perspective the programme provides on economics through the lens of finance and how the two subjects intertwine. Driven by her curiosity about people, she also pursued a minor in psychology, which helps her understand economic theories and financial data from a human perspective.
In moments of doubt, Lavanya finds solace in a well-worn book she brought from India, Misbehaving by Nobel Prize winner Richard Thaler. Apart from delving into the realm of behavioural economics, the book chronicles Thaler’s academic journey, providing Lavanya with a comforting resonance. “It offers a very humane approach to economics. It highlights Thaler’s struggles, which reassures me that challenges are an intrinsic part of the journey,” she reflects.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Lavanya has experienced tremendous personal growth by discovering and embracing her authentic self. As she adapts to the foreign environment, she also feels a strong calling to share her own culture with the local community. Alongside six other international students, she co-founded the South Asian Student Association (SASA), organising a range of activities to foster cultural exchange with fellow students.
Growing up in a traditional education environment in Kazakhstan, Damira Aktay (IBBA, Year 3) shares her unique encounter in a marketing course led by Dr. Kenneth Justin Lee. The course not only instilled in her the creative mindset essential for marketers but also brought out her extroverted side in unexpected ways.
To encourage his students to think outside the box and present their work with exceptional creativity, Dr Lee thoughtfully coined the term “MADketing”, which is printed on the masks he distributes to students. As an illustration, Dr Lee invited the entire class to dance during a marketing presentation. The creative approach of conducting the class went beyond enhancing Damira’s marketing skills. “I have always been an introvert. Studying here has pushed my boundaries and taught me never to be afraid of asking for more.”
Having spent three years in CUHK Business School, Damira has come to realise that education extends beyond textbooks and theories. “It is about cultivating mental agility and the courage to embrace the ever-changing world of business.”
Venturing into her first overseas study experience away from her Indonesian home, Beatrice Djayasaputra (GLEF, Year 1) embarked on a journey of self-discovery in an unfamiliar cultural environment.
As a fresher, Beatrice enjoys immersing herself in the diverse and vibrant community at CUHK. She cherishes the myriad of opportunities which broaden her horizons and enable her to forge meaningful friendships across borders. Despite encountering language and cultural differences, Beatrice believes proactive communication helps her integrate with the community.
During moments of longing for her Indonesian home, Beatrice finds comfort in a seemingly ordinary notebook. The precious keepsake is meticulously crafted and filled with photos and words of encouragement from her family. Each page holds treasure trove of memories and serves as a constant reminder of her family’s unwavering support. Among the words etched in her heart, Beatrice fondly recalls her mother’s reassuring motto, “You don’t have to be the best, but always do your best.”