A global perspective on business and leadership: my MBA Global Experience Week to the Nordics

Exploring sustainable innovation: a snapshot of the Global Experience Week in the Nordics

The Global Experience Week in the Nordics gave us the opportunity to explore Helsinki and Copenhagen, two of the world’s most progressive and sustainability-focused business ecosystems. We met with industry leaders, visited pioneering organisations, and took part in discussions that expanded our understanding of what’s realistically achievable in the fight against climate change.

The opportunity to connect with students from other MBA programmes, exchange ideas and learn from a wide range of perspectives was just as valuable. The week offered a well-rounded mix of academic insight, cultural immersion and professional development.

Lessons from the Nordics business culture

One of the most striking things I observed was the deeply ingrained culture of honesty, direct communication and positivity in the Nordic business world. These qualities drive more productive and ethical business outcomes, creating an environment where collaboration and trust thrives.

What impressed me further was the proactive approach Nordic companies take toward solving future challenges. Sustainability is not viewed as an isolated goal, but rather as a mindset deeply embedded into all aspects of business and society. And businesses utilise digital tools to enhance citizen wellbeing, promote energy efficiency and create transparent systems. This was a powerful reminder that environmental and technological transformation must go hand in hand.

Fireside chats and insights into global business leadership

Among the many insightful sessions that took place that week, two stood out to me in particular:

• A fireside chat with Tommi Juusela, Chair of the Board of Directors at the John Nurminen Foundation. His candid and reflective approach to the topic of climate change, as well as his personal leadership journey, offered valuable lessons on authenticity, strategic foresight and the human side of decision-making. It was truly inspiring to hear how someone can lead with conviction while navigating complex corporate environments.
• The Greenpeace talk. We were exposed to the organisation's strategies, challenges and bold advocacy. Understanding their role in the climate ecosystem broadened my perspective on stakeholder engagement and the potential for collaboration across sectors.

Both sessions challenged me to think beyond conventional business metrics and incorporate broader societal impact into my professional vision. It was a reminder that real leadership involves taking responsibility, influencing systems and bringing others along in the pursuit of sustainable and inclusive change.

The human side of global learning

Beyond the academic insights, the trip was deeply enriching on a personal and interpersonal level. It was a unique opportunity to engage with a group of my peers from diverse cultural, educational and professional backgrounds. It gave me a better appreciation of how collaboration thrives in inclusive settings.

A couple of unforgettable highlights include:

• Hiking through Nuuksio Forest on our first day in Finland. It offered a perfect blend of natural beauty, informal networking and allowed space for personal reflection. 
• Cycling through Copenhagen as an introduction to the city’s historical sites, urban design and sustainable infrastructure.

I came away with a better understanding that leadership is not only about strategy and results, but also about empathy, openness and building bridges between people. And with effective leadership, innovation and sustainability can flourish. The human side of this trip and the lessons it offered will stay with me for years to come.

Why are global experiences essential to the MBA journey?

Our week in the Nordics has been the highlight of my MBA experience. It offered a unique opportunity to step outside of the classroom and observe how academic concepts are applied in diverse, real-world settings. The experience challenged us to reconsider traditional models of success and reinforced the importance of international exposure in developing future leaders.

How the Global Experience Week has influenced my career

A lot can change in a week. Travelling to the Nordics has prompted me to re-evaluate my own values and career goals, placing a stronger emphasis on sustainability, innovation and international collaboration.

I now feel more confident engaging with global stakeholders and navigating cross-cultural partnerships. I am clearer on the leader I aspire to become, one is who globally aware, responsible and forward-thinking.

My key takeaways from the Global Experience Week

This amazing global experience has left me with several lasting insights:

• Leadership involves challenging the status quo and seeking solutions beyond conventional boundaries.
• Innovation is most powerful when it is purposeful. The Nordics demonstrated how design, technology and sustainability can to tackle major global challenges.
• Cultural intelligence matters. Understanding local contexts enhances decision-making and collaboration.
• Sustainability is not optional – it must be embedded into every strategic decision.
• Cross-sector collaboration is crucial in solving systemic issues like climate change.

These insights have already begun to influence how I approach my own projects, particularly in embedding impact as a central measure of success.

Advice for future MBA Global Experience Week participants

If you’re preparing for your own Global Experience Week, whether it be to the Nordics or elsewhere, here’s my advice:

1. Go into the experience with an open mind and a genuine curiosity to learn, not only from the lectures and company visits but also from the people around you.
2. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone; whether that means cycling in a new city, participating in group reflections, or speaking with senior leaders, every interaction adds value.
3. Be fully present and immerse yourself in both the academic and cultural elements of the trip. These experiences are not just about learning, they’re about transformation.
4. And finally, enjoy it. The connections you make, the ideas you absorb, and the inspiration you gather will stay with you long after the trip ends.

My experience on the Global Experience Week to the Nordics: Karunnya Menon

Throughout the week, we discovered various new technologies in the areas of sustainability and how the Nordics have sustainable living woven into their culture. From 3D-printed construction at Hyperion Robotics to ground-breaking nuclear energy technology at Copenhagen Atomics, we were given insights into ways in which businesses are looking to revolutionise their industries. 

My personal highlight must be CopenHill. They designed a manmade ski slope around a waste incinerator; they also used the energy generated from burning waste to create heat and power. Witnessing how businesses can transform unappealing places into an enjoyable and educational experience was truly incredible.

After company visits, the cohort would discuss what we thought worked well with the innovations and reflect on how this could be applied or adapted to suit different business needs around the world. It helped us understand the business and their innovations much better, creating a more wholesome experience. In a way, we were not just learning about the Nordics culture but combining that with all the other cultural experiences in the group and making it a truly global experience.

Overall, the chance to meet companies and gain insights into their businesses gave us hope that with innovation and determination, we can save the world from climate change.

Choose the Global Experience Week to the Nordics for mind blowing innovations and experiences with your friends that you will carry with you for the rest of your life.