​​USB MBA alumnus Fatima Jakoet has been chosen as a Harvard African Fellowship candidate for the Programme for Leadership Development at Harvard Business School. Here she answers a few questions:

1.    Why did you decide to apply for the Harvard African Fellowship?

As a pilot and future airline captain and heading a non-profit organisation, I'm always seeking to develop and sharpen my leadership skills and enrich my knowledge base. When the opportunity was presented to apply for the Harvard African Fellowship Programme, I saw it as the ideal time for self development and to be able to present our country at an international leading institution.

2.   How does the process work to become a fellow?The first phase is an application process whereby one is required to write a motivational as well as an academic essay, as well as motivational letters from two references. Candidates are then shortlisted for the interview with the selection panel. The selected fellows then have to apply at Harvard for the programme which was approved for the fellowship. Six fellows are selected each year. Applying at Harvard Business School one would expect that there is a vigorous selection process in place and that the competition is tough for that final position as a fellow. Your academic history as well as your exposure and skills acquired is to your advantage. 

3.   How did your MBA prepare you for this new challenge?

The MBA has created a solid platform of knowledge of the business aspects. During the MBA experience (I always say that the MBA programme is not a degree; it's an experience) I had to ensure that I managed my time between flying overseas, jet lag and study time. My MBA colleagues were from diverse backgrounds and I was able to interact, learn from and share experiences during the active class participation and group work encouraged by USB's MBA programme. So in essence the USB MBA program gives me the confidence to attempt and partake in the Harvard Business School Programme. 

4.   What does the Leadership Development Programme entail?

The focus is on leadership, change, and innovation and comprises of four modules, two of which are on campus. I am excited as to how the whole experience will transform me as a leader and the interactions with global change makers.

5.   Which leaders do you admire and why?​​​

My values are spiritually based and therefore I would say that the Prophet Mohammed is the first person I would point out. His patience, perseverance, humility and ethics are admirable and can still be applied centuries later. The late Nelson Mandela - the one quality I admire the most is ability to forgive. And the my parents, and it's difficult to choose which one I would choose over the other because they each have different strengths which complement each other as a team. Their vision, gratitude, motivation and belief in the ability of their children and grandchildren constantly inspires me.