The intersection of purpose and strategy: my Oxford experience
One word captures my time at Oxford - “empowering.” The programme didn’t just provide tools and insights — it renewed my conviction to face challenges head-on and advocate for change in both my life and my career.
When I enrolled, I wasn’t just signing up for a course. I was starting a journey to redefine my approach to business and professional development. At the time, I was navigating the delicate balance of working in a corporate environment, and conceptualizing a health-focused technology venture all while recovering from fibroid surgeries. As someone who values intellectual rigor and tangible feedback, I was looking for a programme that combined both, and most importantly, one that could help me solve the universal pain points women face within a fractured healthcare system by transforming them into impactful solutions. Oxford delivered on all fronts.
Navigating complexity: why I chose Oxford
Launching a new venture is thrilling, but it also demands resilience, which is a quality I was putting to the test in more ways than one. My own health journey had shown me the gaps in healthcare and resources available to women, and it fueled my mission to address those gaps. Still, I faced the typical challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship: refining a scalable business model, clarifying our value proposition, and preparing for market entry in a global landscape. Choosing Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford felt like the logical next step, as it offered the credibility of a world-class institution and the flexibility that fit seamlessly into my life.
Immersive learning and global connections
From the very first module, the programme was a masterclass in blending theory with real-world impact. One session on revenue modeling stands out vividly. It pushed me to reevaluate my assumptions, adding layers of nuance to our financial and product strategy. Professor Thomas Hellman and the faculty didn’t just teach; they challenged us to think critically, drawing on their own expertise to make complex concepts feel approachable, accessible and actionable. The virtual format was anything but impersonal. Breakout discussions with a cohort of senior professionals from different industries and geographies sparked ideas I hadn’t considered. These interactions weren’t just networking opportunities. They were catalysts for new perspectives. Hearing how others approached challenges in their fields created a pathway to solutions I could apply to my current and future ventures.
The true measure of any learning experience is how it shapes you afterward. For me, the changes have been infinite.
Key moments of growth and adaption
A standout moment was diving into a case study on market entry strategies, which felt particularly relevant as we strategize our pilot into international markets like Ghana. It was more than just an academic exercise; it was a roadmap I could adapt and implement. The programme didn’t shy away from challenging us, but the structured support made even the most demanding assignments feel achievable. Balancing the coursework with the demands of working in startups and recovering from surgery wasn’t without its hurdles. Yet, those challenges underscored the value of resilience, a consistent theme throughout the programme. Every module, lesson, discussion, and assignment seemed to echo the idea that growth often comes through dealing with the hard stuff.
Turning theory into measurable impact
The true measure of any learning experience is how it shapes you afterward. For me, the changes have been infinite. I translated our existing data points into concise measurable pricing strategies to better reflect the economic realities of global markets. In doing so, I restructured our revenue model and refined our pitch to investors, making it sharper and more compelling. More importantly, I’ve gained the confidence to articulate my vision and lead with clarity.
For future participants: take the leap
If you’re on the fence about joining an Oxford executive programme, my advice is straightforward: don’t hesitate. The experience is both practical AND transformative. It’s not just about gaining knowledge but about learning to think strategically. This programme will expand your skill set, reshape how you approach your solutions, and give you the confidence to lead any venture. I’m excited to complete the full Oxford Venture Series and continue this journey to take my venture to the next level. Hope to see you there.
Find out more about the Oxford Entrepreneurship: Venture Creation Programme
