IBR Global MBA Testimonials
The process of creating value through work-integrated learning is extraordinary. It shifts the primary learning experience from the confines of academic institutions to the actual workplaces of our students. This transformation leads to an unparalleled sense of purpose, as it transitions skills training from theoretical teaching to the invaluable experience gained on the job.
Additionally, work-integration redirects the traditional focus of study from analysis to practical implementation. It is the act of implementation that has the power to bring about real change in the world. This new approach enables students to realize their potential in effecting positive changes within their work environments.
We invite you to explore the remarkable feedback from some of our students who have been willing to openly share their experiences of creating genuine value in their workplaces.
Nomathemba Ngwenya, Head of Treasury Sales and Business Development at First Capital Bank, Harare, Zimbabwe
02.2026 |
| My personal use of this course unit has been profound. It has equipped me with a practical framework for dissecting a company's performance beyond the headline figures, enabling me to identify drivers of financial outcomes. I now possess an appreciation for the complexities of costing services in a non-manufacturing environment, the strategic implications of pricing decisions and the critical role of timely and relevant feedback in driving organizational change. This knowledge is applicable to my professional development, empowering me to contribute to strategic planning, cost optimization initiatives and business performance management within any organization. The emphasis on humanizing content and communicating complex financial concepts in an accessible manner has enhanced my ability to bridge the gap between financial experts and operational management, a crucial skill for any aspiring leader. |
| Advanced Financial Planning |
Sandra Mutambiranwa, Cash Service Team Lead at Crown Bank, Harare, Zimbabwe
01.2026 |
| Working on the Customer Service Week case in conjunction with the insights gained from this course has significantly reshaped my perspective on management and value creation. One of the most impactful concepts for me was Malik’s principle of contribution to the whole, which highlighted the importance of ensuring every team member understands how their work aligns with broader organizational objectives. Applying this insight, I recognized that while the CSW initiative was operationally successful, I had not sufficiently communicated to staff how their efforts directly impacted client engagement and the Bank’s strategic goals. This realization has prompted me to think more deliberately about alignment, purpose, and motivation in all managerial activities. |
| Tasks and Tools of Effective Management |
Inga Mungandjera, Admitted Legal Practitioner at Namibian Qualifications Authority, Windhoek, Namibia
12.2025 |
| Personally, the study reshaped my understanding of marketing within a public sector context. I previously viewed our services as regulatory and compliance-driven. However, through engaging with entrepreneurial marketing literature (Nijssen, 2022), I realised that even statutory bodies must justify market opportunities, validate services with customers, and anticipate adoption challenges. What struck me most was the concept that solutions sell, not products. Evaluations and accreditations are not just bureaucratic processes they are solutions to stakeholders’ problems of uncertainty and risk. This insight has shifted my perspective from seeing services as administrative to recognising them as value-creating market offerings. |
| Strategic Marketing |
Nomathemba Ngwenya, Head of Treasury Sales and Business Development at First Capital Bank, Harare, Zimbabwe
12.2025 |
| Studying entrepreneurial marketing has changed my perspective on market entry and product development. The most significant value creation for me came fr om understanding the concept that solutions sell and products don't. Previously, I was focused on the platform's features (the product), such as the AI algorithm's complexity. Now, the focus is on the customer's problem and the value-in-use: the solution is "Intelligent Wealth, Effortless Access," which directly addresses the HNWI's need for superior, bespoke performance. The concept of effectuation marketing also made a difference. In a traditional banking, the inclination is to rely on predictive rationality and market research, which is irrelevant for a radical innovation. Embracing effectuation allows for an iterative, resource-focused approach, wh ere we engage with lead customers for co-creation, transforming unexpected feedback into opportunities. This mindset shift is crucial for navigating the uncertainty inherent in launching a radical innovation and will inform how I lead product development and market validation in the SBU, moving away from rigid planning toward agile experimentation. |
| Strategic Marketing |
Edwin Tsvere, Channels Director at Diaspora Insurance, Harare, Zimbabwe
11.2025 |
| Reflecting on this assignment has provided deep insight into how deliberate application of Malik’s tasks can enhance both personal and organisational value creation, which has profoundly impacted my management perspective. I now recognise that structured objective-setting, coupled with continuous supervision and performance measurement, directly motivates partners and aligns their activities with strategic goals, thereby increasing organisational efficiency. |
| Tasks and Tools of Effective Management |
Crispen Nyamutaira, Engineering management at Innscor Africa, Harare, Zimbabwe
10.2025 |
| have learnt about different cultures and got excited on how R. Gesteland categorized them. The book is so well researched that I started to implement it in my professional life and it applies. Knowledge of different cultures can be a reason why you will get the deal or lose it. Unfortunately, like Gesteland mentioned sometimes you will not know why you lost because of a simple gesture that will have annoyed client/supplier. Application of the knowledge gained will help in terms of also attracting investment from across culture borders. |
| Cross-Cultural Management |
Betty Schroder, Principal Project Coordinator and Advisor to Environmental Commissioners Office at Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Windhoek, Namibia
08.2025 |
| One of the most enlightening ideas I learnt from this unit was Malik's description of the structured approach to effective management. Before learning about systematic principles like goal clarity, resource allocation, and performance measurement, I had managed teams primarily through intuition and prior experiences. Seeing how even well-meaning projects can fail due to a lack of these foundations was especially eye-opening. My perspective changed from reactive to proactive leadership when I realised that managing is a skill that must be acquired. I benefited greatly from this new viewpoint since I feel more capable of handling challenging management situations with a useful toolkit. Additionally, I valued the focus on fostering trust and utilising employee strengths, which I had previously undervalued. |
| Principles of Effective Management |
Inga Mungandjera, Admitted Legal Practitioner at Namibian Qualifications Authority, Windhoek, Namibia
07.2025 |
| This assignment helped me critically assess my strengths and growth areas as a manager. I realized the importance of structuring decision authority and formalizing processes. Malik’s emphasis on managing complexity through clarity was particularly enlightening (Malik, 2015). Going forward, I aim to formalize all project workflows and proactively train colleagues—thus embedding value into NQA’s culture and systems. |
| Tasks and Tools of Effective Management |
Tatenda Makuni, Executive Director at Introcane Enterprises, Harare, Zimbabwe
07.2025 |
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At the time of writing this assignment, the website was still being developed hence the various aspects of search engine optimization were incorporated i.e, keywords, platforms for blogging which was beneficial to us. The assignment also offered insight into what other businesses are doing in applying digital technology to stay competitive which is a good benchmark for our growing business. Another benefit of this assignment is becoming familiar to the fact that, reaching, engaging and retaining customers is critical to the survival of the business and digital technology is a big part of it. Getting insight into the various ways was beneficial thus in equipping us with the right tools for making sure our business remains competitive and profitable. |
| IT and Customer Relations |
Inga Mungandjera, Admitted Legal Practitioner at Namibian Qualifications Authority, Windhoek, Namibia
06.2025 |
| The value created through this assignment extends beyond the immediate project outcomes, providing lasting benefits to both my personal development and the NQA as an organisation. By enhancing my management capabilities, I can contribute more effectively to the NQA’s mission, support the professional growth of my colleagues, and help drive the organisation’s long-term success. |
| Principles of Effective Management |
Setson Negumbo, Manager: Finance and Procurement at Ondangwa Town Council, Ondangwa, Namibia
06.2025 |
| Throughout,studying this course unit has significantly deepened my understanding of what it truly means to manage effectively within a public sector context marked by resource constraints and high accountability. One of the most profound insights I gained was the shift from viewing management as task execution to understanding it as a results-oriented and principle-driven discipline. Fredmund Malik’s framework challenged my previous assumptions and helped me recognise the strategic value of focusing on outcomes, leveraging strengths, and fostering trust. |
| Principles of Effective Management |
Setson Negumbo, Manager: Finance and Procurement at Ondangwa Town Council, Ondangwa, Namibia
06.2025 |
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Throughout the study of this unit, I gained valuable insights into the complexities and strategic considerations involved in attracting and managing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). One of the most significant personal revelations was understanding how deeply cultural sensitivity, legal structure, and regulatory compliance influence investor confidence and long-term project sustainability. This knowledge has sharpened my ability to assess international business opportunities with greater precision and has equipped me to engage more effectively with foreign investors. |
| International Business Law |
Chris Lamprecht, Senior Business Analyst at ooba (PTY) Ltd., Cape Town, South African Republic
06.2025 |
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Supply chain management has almost always been a black hole of mystery to me until I started this assignment. The assignment provided some much-needed clarity. Understanding the idiosyncrasies which make up the supply chain, especially in an industry such as Insurance sales, has open new doors and directions of though and progress I can employ in my daily tasks to contribute to ooba’s move toward the top 5 rankings in the Insurance industry. |
| Operations Processes and Supply Chain Management |
Lincoln Taruvinga, Deputy Managing Director at Quickfix Hardware, Calgary, Canada
05.2025 |
| Engaging in this evaluation has provided meaningful value both to me and to the workplace. On a personal level, it has deepened my understanding of how structured performance management—when aligned with strategic goals—can significantly impact employee motivation, operational efficiency, and business outcomes. It also sharpened my ability to apply HR theory, such as Armstrong’s performance management principles, in a practical, small business setting. |
| Appraisal and Performance of Human Resources |
Inga Mungandjera, Admitted Legal Practitioner at Namibian Qualifications Authority, Windhoek, Namibia
05.2025 |
| This assignment has enhanced my understanding of international investment strategies and the legal frameworks supporting them. It has provided me with practical skills in structuring investment proposals and has added value to NQA by aligning its future growth with international funding and partnership opportunities. The integration of cross-cultural, legal, and economic perspectives offers a comprehensive framework for responsible and mutually beneficial investment facilitation. |
| International Business Law |
Admire Toga-Nxele, Project Development Manager at Uinge Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
05.2025 |
| I have not only learned the technical aspects of creating an investment proposal but also developed a deeper appreciation for the complexities of investment processes. I feel more prepared for the real world applications given that an investment proposal is a crucial document for securing funding and forming partnerships and so I am prepared for future business engagements personally and as a project manager. |
| International Business Law |
Daniela Kelling, Senior Program Delivery, Lead Strategic Feasibility Manager at UCB, Monheim, Germany
04.2025 |
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Completing my assignment on "International Business Law" has been an enriching experience. I created a fictional company and drafted a proposal for a UK investor, highlighting the advantages of investing in Germany. In terms of value creation, this module has significantly expanded my knowledge of international business law and investment strategies. The true enrichment came from creating a proposal for an investor and delving deeply into the topic of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This practical application has enhanced my ability to navigate the complexities of the broader business world, beyond my current experience. |
| International Business Law |
Lincoln Taruvinga, Deputy Managing Director at Quickfix Hardware, Calgary, Canada
04.2025 |
| I have come to appreciate the importance of a structured marketing strategy that aligns closely with business objectives. This involves understanding target audiences, crafting tailored messages, and selecting appropriate channels to effectively reach potential customers. The emphasis on deeply understanding customer needs and preferences has been enlightening. Recognizing that customer satisfaction is pivotal to business success has reinforced the necessity of placing customers at the core of our marketing efforts. |
| Strategic Marketing |
Itayi Marufu, Concentrator Manager at Bindura Nickel Corporation, Bindura, Zimbabwe
04.2025 |
| This assignment is a game-changer for both me and my employer, bridging my technical expertise with strategic leadership and aligning with our organizational goals. For me, it’s a catalyst for professional growth. |
| Managing IT and Strategy |
Michael Matengu, Environment Officer: Air Quality at Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb, Tsumeb, Namibia
04.2025 |
| This assignment has allowed me to view our organization in a more positive light, particularly in terms of organizational development. It has provided valuable insights into how different leadership roles and approaches can play a significant role in the success or downfall of the organization. I have also learned the need and value of referencing. |
| Organisational Development |