A graduate of the Executive Track within the HEC Paris Executive MSc & MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship online degree program anticipated in 2024, Fatima Laher has consistently been captivated by the enthusiasm surrounding fresh concepts, the excitement of addressing challenges, and the endeavor of constructing something from the ground up. Her journey has led her through various corporate roles, consulting assignments, and projects at diverse phases—but regardless of her location, she has remained devoted to one objective: making a significant impact.

A Career Anchored in Exploration and Transformation

Throughout the years, Fatima has ventured across various sectors and regions, crafting a career that showcases her flexibility and commitment to ongoing growth. From corporate positions to consulting endeavors, she has persistently sought prospects that stimulated her intellect and empowered her to contribute strategically in influential capacities. However, as her passion for entrepreneurship intensified, she reached a pivotal moment: it was time to consciously dedicate herself to her own initiatives.

Why Choose HEC Paris?

The HEC Paris Executive MSc & MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship caught her attention due to its blend of academic challenge and practical significance. The program’s adaptable, online format enabled Fatima to pursue her academic goals while maintaining her professional commitments—a crucial element in her decision-making process. Equally significant was the chance to engage with a diverse, global network of learners, each contributing unique insights on innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Having felt somewhat “stuck” prior to her enrollment, Fatima expressed, “I was hesitating. I needed a shift in perspective. But then I began taking short courses on Coursera, conducted some exploration, and discovered [the degree program] was entirely online. So, I proceeded and realized this was essential for me.”

During her time in the program, Fatima crafted and evaluated novel business concepts, honed her strategic acumen, and deepened her comprehension of the financial, operational, and human factors essential for launching and growing ventures. “It offered a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse areas within the entrepreneurial realm,” she remarked. Additionally, Fatima valued the real-world project that enabled her to guide a tangible idea through the stages of business strategy and validation.

Embracing the Entrepreneurial Mindset

Fatima’s experiences in the program allowed her to refine her approach to challenges and prospects.

“I cherished the design thinking and the organizational design, which I had not encountered before and that significantly broadened my outlook.”

She emerged equipped not only with a more robust toolkit for business but also with an entrepreneurial mindset—confident in her capacity to take initiative, handle ambiguity, and lead with vision and intention. Inspired by the coursework, Fatima observed, “I immediately began having more productive discussions with not just my clients, but I also walked into my CEO’s office and asserted, we need to discuss organizational structure.”

Guidance for Future Learners

Fatima’s journey serves as a compelling illustration for professionals contemplating their next move—whether they aspire to launch a startup, spearhead innovation within a company, or consider a career shift.

Her advice for those contemplating a degree stresses the importance of understanding your “why.” Fatima shares, “Be clear within yourself about why you wish to pursue this. What are your goals? Then, align your actions with that outcome. This will motivate you to invest the necessary time and effort to see it through.”

Reflecting on the effort she committed to reach graduation, Fatima emphasizes, “Put in the work. I know individuals utilize ChatGPT to simplify their lives. However, the depth of knowledge I acquired from thoroughly studying the material is invaluable. I dedicated time to read the content, and I found it incredibly fascinating and thought-provoking. It truly broadens your perspective.”

For anyone considering the HEC Paris program, Fatima’s journey reinforces several key insights: it’s never too late to invest in yourself, learning alongside a global community can be life-changing, and impactful entrepreneurship begins with a defined purpose.

Looking to the Future

As she pursues her path after graduation, Fatima is committed to applying her newfound knowledge to endeavors and initiatives that resonate with her principles. Whether offering advice, creating, or leading, she brings a profound dedication to innovation that makes a difference—and she is just at the beginning of her journey.

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