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Introducing our new Oxford-Pershing Square Scholars: Celebrating a decade of impact and partnership

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We are delighted to introduce this year's new cohort of Pershing Square scholars, who are set to become future leaders addressing global challenges.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Oxford-Pershing Square Scholarship as we welcome Evelyn Elizabeth Miller, Hatem Zakir, Nami Battsogt, Shannon Schulz, and Wina Yoman as the 2024-2026 intake. These exceptional individuals, selected for their academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to social impact, will undertake the MBA and Master's in various disciplines, preparing them to tackle the world’s most pressing issues. They will benefit from a range of on-course opportunities, including a spring 'trek' to New York hosted by the Pershing Square Foundation, and mentorship opportunities. 

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the partnership between Saïd Business School and the Pershing Square Foundation, Soumitra Dutta, Peter Moores Dean, hosted a drinks reception with representatives from the Foundation, stakeholders involved in managing the scholarship, current and alumni Oxford-Pershing Square scholars. A commemorative book highlighting the impact of the scholarship, and the remarkable achievements of its beneficiaries was presented to the Foundation during the reception (main picture). This event provided an opportunity to express deep gratitude to the Foundation for its extraordinary generosity, and celebrate the success of the scholars.


 

We are proud to welcome this year's Oxford Pershing Square Scholars, a cohort of outstanding individuals who are not only academically brilliant but also deeply committed to creating lasting, positive change in the world. These future global leaders exemplify the core values of Oxford Saïd which include rigorous intellectual training and a passion for solving the most pressing challenges of our time.

Soumitra Dutta

Peter Moores Dean, Saïd Business School

The reception also served as a moment to reflect on the achievements of the past decade and to look forward to many more years of meaningful collaboration. The scholarship significantly enhances our collective journey towards positive change and strengthens the School by attracting top talent dedicated to making a global impact. 

Soumitra added: 'As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Oxford-Pershing Square Scholarship, we are especially thankful to the Pershing Square Foundation for their continued support and partnership, which has empowered us to nurture the next generation of transformative leaders. We look forward to witnessing their impact across industries and societies.'

Evelyn Elizabeth Miller
Evelyn Elizabeth Miller

Evelyn Elizabeth Miller

From: United Kingdom

Current Most Recent Role: Digital Consultant (Freelance) and Marketing Manager, Kerrison Exhibitions Ltd

Partnering Subject: MSc in Social Science of the Internet

As a multidisciplinary creative and sociologist with a background in the arts, publishing, startups, strategy, marketing and digital consulting; Evelyn’s work reflects a strong commitment to creativity, innovation and community-building across sectors.

I feel so grateful to have been awarded the Oxford-Pershing Square Scholarship and for my community of family, friends, and colleagues who have supported me on my journey to Oxford Saïd. I feel excited to immerse myself in university life, become part of Oxford’s global community of scholars, and embrace any opportunities that may come my way. This is such a special opportunity.

Evelyn Elizabeth Miller

Pershing Square scholar

Hatem Zakir
Hatem Zakir

Hatem Zakir

From: Egypt

Current Most Recent Role: Capital Markets Analyst, the World Bank

Partnering Subject: Master of Public Policy

Passionate about making finance work for development, Hatem helped structure $15bn in financing packages for 20 countries at the World Bank. At Oxford, he's diving into how policy and business can team up to mobilise capital and close the development funding gap.

It's not just about earning the degrees; for me, it's about joining a community of driven individuals who understand that solving global problems requires more than one perspective. The chance to learn alongside others who share this multidisciplinary mindset is what truly excites me.

Hatem Zakir

Pershing Square scholar

Nami Battsogt
Nami Battsogt

Nami Battsogt

From: Mongolia

Current Most Recent Role: Investment Analyst, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

Partnering Subject: Master of Public Policy

Passionate about scaling energy transition efforts in developing countries, Nami has worked in infrastructure financing in London, Beijing and Ulaanbaatar. At Oxford, she will focus on the private sector's role in development finance.

I am tremendously grateful to the University of Oxford, Saïd Business School, and the Pershing Square Foundation for granting me the opportunity to pursue the 1+1 MBA as a Pershing Square Scholar. I am committed to driving meaningful change in the fields of energy transition and sustainable development, where public and private sector collaboration is key.

Nami Battsogt

Pershing Square scholar

Shannon Schulz
Shannon Schulz

Shannon Schulz

From: Australia

Current Most Recent Role: Senior Digital Consultant, ERM, the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy

Partnering Subject: MSc in Environmental Change and Management

Working at the intersection of technology and the environment, with experience in corporate consulting and at UNESCO, Shannon leverages data and analytics to help global organisations manage climate change impacts. The 1+1 MBA will enable Shannon to work at the forefront of sustainability. 

I am deeply grateful to the foundation for the opportunity to pursue my learning and leadership journey at Oxford surrounded by the best and brightest minds. The world is becoming increasingly interconnected and digitally enabled, and the MBA 1+1 will allow me to combine my twin passions of sustainability and technology to help organisations achieve transformative change.

Shannon Schulz

Pershing Square scholar

Wina Yoman
Wina Yoman

Wina Yoman

From: Australia

Current Most Recent Role: Manager, Bain & Company

Partnering Subject: MSc in Education (Digital and Social Change)

Passionate about equitable learning and having previously defined education strategy for a leading Australian philanthropy and developed AI use cases at Bain, Wina is quietly optimistic of EdTech's potential in being co-created and shaped to drive outcomes for the diverse needs of learners.

Most of all, I'm excited by the opportunity to learn from the diverse experiences across the Oxford community. It's a community of incredibly talented & passionate people, and I hope to bring the same optimism and passion to the conversations and friendships over the years.

Wina Yoman

Pershing Square scholar

Find out more about the scholarships available at Oxford Saïd