Fuelling the next generation of leaders

My journey with London Business School started 26 years ago and every bit of it was fantastic. I did a full-time MBA from 1998 to 2000 and I especially loved that we had such an international student body compared to many other business schools. But most importantly, it was the kindness of the people in the community, whether it was peers or faculty, that made us into complete, well-rounded human beings.   

After I graduated, my connection with LBS continued as three of my younger siblings joined after me. We were the first family to have four siblings complete the MBA at London Business School, so LBS is closely intertwined with our family. Last year, I came back to LBS to continue my education and attended an executive course in private equity. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am returning for another course this month. Learning is a lifelong thing for me.   

It was the year of my first reunion, five years after graduation, when I began philanthropically supporting the School. I’ve always believed in giving back to educational institutions. This can take so many forms – from mentoring current students and inspiring female leaders or supporting philanthropically, there is a multitude of ways in which alumni can support their alma mater.  

I decided to dedicate most of my financial support towards scholarships at London Business School which is an area where I can see a clear case for support. There is so much talent out there in the world. I recognise I am privileged to have the opportunities I had and attend the schools I did. But unfortunately, not everyone has the same opportunities.

Education is extremely important to me and apart from philanthropically supporting educational institutions, my husband and I founded the United Lisbon International School in Portugal, where we live. One of the biggest impacts educational institutions like LBS can have in this area is through the leaders it nurtures and shapes. From my experience and from what I can see today, people come out of LBS as skilled and driven, but also kind, holistic and well-rounded leaders and those are exactly the kind of leaders we need to tackle the massive challenges we face – from climate crisis and conflicts, to hunger and poverty. Having four children, I constantly think about what tomorrow’s world holds for them. I believe it is only through education and being united that we can hope to solve these global problems.  

I am happy to give back to a place that has given me so much and enable LBS to fuel the next generation of leaders who will make our world a better place. By doing so, I hope to lead the way and inspire other alumni to give as well. After all, it was my former classmate and his passion who inspired my gift at our reunion all those years ago. I hope to continue this positive ripple effect and inspire others through my giving.