To achieve this I wanted to get exposure to the methods, ideas, suggestions and experiences that are captured in GIBS’ exceptional track record in the field of business education.


In theory, for me the MBA – especially one that focuses on Entrepreneurship – offered a high-level advanced business degree aimed at increasing the likelihood of developing or growing a successful business through the acquisition of a vast body of practical, business-related knowledge in the shortest amount of time. Having graduated, I’d say (and I am of course speaking subjectively from my own experience) an MBA focused on entrepreneurship differs from an executive MBA in that it is tailored towards those who are already in business or are thinking of going into business for themselves and thus focuses on entrepreneurial development.


My recommendation to anyone out there considering an MBA is to aim for the business school that teaches what you want to learn and attracts like-minded people. So for those looking to grow or set up their own business, choose an AMBA- accredited school that offers an entrepreneurship programme and ideally one with a focus on the business areas you know for example ENPC School of Management for technology and entrepreneurship, Nottingham, EMLYON, University of Cambridge Judge Business School for Entrepreneurship, GIBS or Stellenbosch for emerging markets, etc.


My other recommendation when you are considering where to study is that if you want to do business in a specific geographic region then you want to attend a business school that is based there as it gives you a localised education as well as networks. In my case that’s why I chose Africa; while some of the subjects covered are international in nature, it makes a big difference when you apply them in an African context. In addition the experiences and stories you learn from your fellow students are invaluable.


In my experience the real value of an MBA programme lays 20% in the academic curriculum and 80% in the experiences that fellow students share during classes. Thus I prefer more experienced business people to young people with just a little experience. That is not to say I don't value enthusiasm and passion - but I prefer to learn the tricks of the trade of how others do it on the ground. Hence my preference for accredited schools such as Insead, London Business School, IE and many others, as AMBA’s accreditation criteria asks that all students have at least three years postgraduate management experience.


So, is the intense pressure, hectic schedule, logistical hassles and steep learning curve paired with enormous sacrifices worth it? As an entrepreneur was it worth it? In my opinion the answer to both is a resounding yes. The biggest value I derived was the learning from my fellow students and my business now employs ca 1.850 people in primary healthcare sector in Africa."


York Zucchi - AMBA’s Global AMBAssador


York is one of AMBA’s 33 Global AMBAssadors. Each AMBAssador is chosen by their accredited business school to champion quality management education and responsible leadership. Together the Global AMBAssadors will create a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and engagement with MBAs, business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators across the world. They also offer advice to MBA seekers via AMBA’s Facebook page.


To research MBA study, find out more about the Association of MBAs and to find accredited


MBA programmes, visit www.ambaguide.com.


INSPIRING GLOBAL EXCELLENCE


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