Graduates
What Would You Tell Your Younger Self Before Starting the MBA?
At the conclusion of their MBA journey, every graduate of the Alfred Ford School of Management completes our Graduates Survey, offering candid reflections and personal advice drawn from their own experiences. Below, you’ll discover inspiring highlights, valuable advice, and insightful perspectives that provide an authentic window into how AFSM shaped their leadership, careers, and lives. This unfiltered feedback comes from professionals worldwide who embraced conscious leadership and transformative growth during their studies.
of graduates answered “Yes” when asked if they would recommend Alfred Ford School of Management to others. This reflects strong confidence in the value and impact of the AFSM program.
Source: AFSM Graduate Survey, responses collected up to June 2025.
Fouad Ben Larbi
- Belgium
- Generation 2025
- Customer Success Manager & Founder of Neoshore
- Open Survey
Ajay Kasishwar
- India
- Generation 2020
- Director – Communications, The Akshaya Patra Foundation
- Webpage
- Open Survey
Branko Drljača
- Croatia
- Generation 2025
- Head of Social Entrepreneurship | NGO Sector
- Open Survey
Highlight
Fouad’s path to the Alfred Ford School of Management began with a dream to become a purpose-driven entrepreneur — and a promise to lead by example for his daughters, Nisrine and Mayssa. After years of experience as a Business Development Manager in international companies, he launched his own outsourcing firm, Neoshore, and joined AFSM to consolidate his real-world experience with ethical, conscious leadership.
“This journey is more than a degree — it’s about proving to my children that with self-sacrifice and determination, we can overcome any limit.”
Advice to My Past Self
“Don’t hesitate. This program will challenge your mindset, push you to grow, and show you what it means to lead with integrity. Be ready to give it your all — the rewards will come.”
Interesting: Before joining, Fouad proactively reached out to AFSM students to understand the school’s values and expectations. Their reflections, along with AFSM’s mission to build ethical and visionary leaders, confirmed he was in the right place. Today, he uses the MBA teachings to lead his company with greater purpose and clarity.
Why Fouad Chose AFSM: A strong focus on Conscious Leadership aligned with his values | Flexible online format compatible with a business owner’s schedule | A visionary institution that values ethics alongside business results | Desire to consolidate over 20 years of experience into a formal, ethical business framework.
Ajay Kasishwar
Highlight: Ajay brings over 20 years of cross-industry experience and a deep commitment to service through his work in the non-profit sector. As Director of Communications at one of India’s largest food relief organizations, his professional journey has always been aligned with higher values. Yet, it was at the Alfred Ford School of Management that he found a unique path to integrate spiritual consciousness with leadership excellence. The MBA in Conscious Leadership offered him not just academic enrichment, but also a space for inner transformation.
“This isn’t just a qualification — it’s a journey of becoming a spiritually conscious thought leader. AFSM has helped me align professional impact with personal purpose.”
Advice: “Gain more clarity on the course structure early on. The deeper your understanding of the content and delivery, the better you can integrate the learnings into your leadership journey.”
Interesting: Ajay was already in a senior leadership role when he joined the MBA — but the program still created tangible advancements within his current organization. He was especially drawn to the program’s practical, case-based approach, as well as its strong ethical foundation rooted in wisdom traditions.
Why Ajay Chose AFSM: A rare curriculum that fuses management science with spiritual depth | Practical learning through real-world case studies, not rote memorization | The vision of forming leaders who are both efficient and elevated | A flexible online structure that fits the busy schedule of a senior professional.
Highlight: Branko is a Croatian social entrepreneurship leader with over a decade of experience in the non-profit and NGO sector. Currently heading the Social Entrepreneurship department at NGO OAZA in Zagreb, his professional journey has been shaped by a clear conviction: leadership must always be people-oriented, not task-driven. He joined the Alfred Ford School of Management after a long period of reflection, practical leadership experience, and a decisive alignment with AFSM’s values-based approach to management.
For Branko, AFSM was not a conventional career move but a natural continuation of his inner development. Having witnessed both ineffective and inspiring leadership in practice, he sought an MBA that would deepen his understanding of conscious leadership, ethics, and real human impact. The program strengthened his ability to lead with awareness, clarity, and responsibility—particularly in environments focused on youth, impact, and social change.
“The program strengthened my leadership skills, managerial competence, and ethical awareness. It helped me think more strategically, communicate more consciously, and lead with greater confidence and resilience.”
Advice: “Peer learning is crucial—don’t be afraid to share your thoughts. Use AI as a learning tool, not an answer generator, and constantly visualize how you would apply what you learn in real practice.”
Interesting: Branko rated his overall satisfaction with AFSM 10/10 and highlighted the program’s conscious leadership focus, practical application, and flexibility as key strengths. While he did not pursue an immediate career change after graduation, he uses the MBA as leverage to strengthen impact entrepreneurship programs for youth and to promote holistic, value-based leadership within local and international networks.
Why Branko Chose AFSM: Strong alignment with conscious and ethical leadership values | People-centred leadership philosophy | Practical, real-world application through cases and projects | Flexible online format suited to NGO leadership | Access to diverse peers and industry experts
Kushmika Singh
- South Africa
- Generation 2025
- Academic & Business Editor | Entrepreneur in Ethical Leadership
- Open Survey
C.V. Sirisha Dhaveji
- India/Singapore/USA
- Generation 2023
- Project Officer | Education Sector
- Open Survey
Tanya Hussein
- Iraq/USA
- Generation 2023
- Finance Professional | Customer & Financial Services
- Open Survey
Kushmika Singh
Highlight: Kushmika discovered the Alfred Ford School of Management years ago, when an article about its launch caught her attention. As an academic and business editor with more than a decade of consulting experience, she had long been driven by a simple but powerful goal: to empower people to make better decisions and live more meaningful, ethical, and healthy lives. Her work — whether editing manuscripts, advising clients, or building teams — has always centred on respect, honesty, and cooperation. When she began searching for an MBA aligned with her values, AFSM’s emphasis on ethical and conscious leadership immediately resonated with her vision.
Her experience in the program reflected this alignment. She rated the MBA 10/10 for overall satisfaction, 8/10 for meeting expectations, 8/10 for faculty, and 10/10 for applying classroom learning in her professional life. The combination of flexibility, human-centred teaching, and values-driven curriculum strengthened her leadership, sharpened her strategic thinking, and deepened her commitment to ethical decision-making.
Advice: “Embrace every challenge, pace yourself, find balance, and take every opportunity to learn — this journey will help you grow in ways you can’t imagine. Enjoy every moment.”
Interesting: Although Kushmika did not change roles immediately after completing the program, she experienced significant internal growth: greater confidence, stronger leadership skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. She is now focused on building two mission-driven ventures — a self-sustaining editing business and a business-coaching consultancy dedicated to training leaders in ethical and conscious leadership. Her long-term aspiration is to uplift communities by helping individuals and organisations make values-based decisions that foster cooperation and trust.
Why Kushmika Chose AFSM: Strong alignment with her philosophy of ethical leadership | Flexible online format ideal for balancing entrepreneurship and study | Supportive faculty and a warm, values-driven learning environment | Practical curriculum with conscious leadership at its core | A program that reinforces personal transformation alongside professional skill-building.
C.V. Sirisha Dhaveji
Highlight: A lifelong admirer of values-based leadership, Sirisha’s turning point came the day she met India’s former President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. His example of humility and wisdom left a lasting impression — and inspired her to seek leadership development grounded in compassion. That’s what led her to the Alfred Ford School of Management. For Sirisha, AFSM’s Conscious Leadership MBA aligned perfectly with her cultural roots, her dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s teachings, and her goal of bringing integrity and empathy into today’s competitive workplaces.
“Leadership without humility and compassion remains hollow. This program empowered my conviction that true strength lies in ethical, conscious leadership.”
Advice: “Don’t wait for things to become perfect — the world needs compassionate leaders now. This MBA is more than a degree; it’s a personal and spiritual transformation.”
Interesting: Sirisha joined the MBA while working full-time in Singapore, and her dedication paid off. She experienced career advancement during the program and rated it a 9–10 across every academic and leadership category. She credits AFSM for boosting her confidence, improving her collaboration skills, and giving her a foundation for long-term impact.
Why Sirisha Chose AFSM: Deep alignment with ethical and spiritual leadership | Strong connection to the legacy of Srila Prabhupada | An opportunity to blend project management with inner development | Practical learning for post-pandemic leadership challenges | Flexibility to study while working full-time.
Tanya Hussein
Highlight: Tanya, originally from Baghdad and now based in Pennsylvania, entered the Alfred Ford School of Management as a full-time professional balancing work, family, and the desire to grow beyond her current role. With more than six years of experience supporting customers in the financial services sector, she wanted an MBA that would build her leadership, sharpen her analytical skills, and give her the confidence to support people navigating financial challenges.
The online format of the AFSM MBA was exactly what she needed: flexible, diverse, and designed for self-paced learning. Through the program, she strengthened her strategic thinking and improved her communication and collaboration skills — qualities she now applies daily in her interactions with clients and colleagues.
“Make sure it is credentialed in the USA.”
A reminder from her own journey: do your due diligence, understand the accreditation framework, and make choices confidently.
Advice: Stepping into an MBA pushes you out of your comfort zone. Embrace that discomfort. It’s where leadership ability, professional maturity, and new opportunities begin.
Interesting: Tanya’s long-term vision is rooted in service. After years of watching customers struggle with budgeting, debt, and financial anxiety, she wants to become a specialist in money management — someone who can guide others toward stability and well-being.
Her academic background in history and her cross-cultural experience add depth to her leadership style, helping her understand people, context, and behaviour in ways that go beyond spreadsheets.
Although she hasn’t yet had a career jump, she considers the program valuable for personal growth, increased confidence, and improved professional communication.
Why Tanya Chose AFSM: Flexible online structure suited for full-time professionals | Strong focus on conscious leadership | Diverse international student community | The drive to advance into leadership and financial coaching roles | Desire to gain broader business knowledge and strategic capability | Interest in helping others achieve financial well-being through ethical guidance.
Ramya Ramanujam
- India
- Generation 2025
- IT Professional | Leadership & Technology
- Open Survey
Balvinder “Bob” Kapoor
- Kenya/USA
- Generation 2023
- Business Executive | Hospitality, Tourism & Organizational Leadership
- Open Survey
Sylvester Bezegr
- Ghana
- Generation 2025
- Zonal Supervisor & Missionary | Non-profit Sector
- Open Survey
Highlight: Ramya, born in Srirangam and now based in Bangalore, joined the Alfred Ford School of Management with the determination to develop both her professional expertise and her inner leadership compass. Coming from the fast-paced IT sector, she wanted more than technical advancement — she wanted a program that aligned skill development with ethics, resilience, and human values.
The AFSM MBA became a transformative experience. With perfect 10/10 ratings across every category, Ramya not only switched companies but also gained a significant career boost. She strengthened her strategic thinking, improved communication, deepened her ethical awareness, and built the confidence to navigate the rapid shifts of today’s technology landscape.
“One of the unique MBA programs globally — conscious leadership that teaches us to practice ethical principles along with joyful leadership.”
Advice: Embrace the uniqueness of the program. Apply the principles daily. Let conscious leadership shape not only your professional decisions but the way you show up in life.
Interesting: What drew Ramya to AFSM was its mission: cultivating ethical, conscious, globally minded leaders grounded in both modern business knowledge and timeless wisdom.
She wanted to become a leader who creates positive environments, designs innovative IT solutions, and aligns business strategy with social responsibility.
During the program, she developed adaptability, resilience, and the courage to reinvent her path — qualities that helped her secure new opportunities even before completing the MBA.
Why Ramya Chose AFSM: Deep alignment with ethical and conscious leadership | Global mindset rooted in timeless wisdom | Flexible online structure supporting self-paced learning | Comprehensive and practical curriculum | Supportive and engaged faculty | Real-world projects that strengthen confidence and critical thinking | A transformational approach to leadership development for modern professionals.
Balvinder “Bob” Kapoor
Highlight: Bob, born in Nairobi and now based in Los Angeles, brought more than two decades of leadership experience in hospitality and tourism when he enrolled at the Alfred Ford School of Management. As an executive overseeing a company of around 40 employees — and simultaneously serving as the Congregational Director for ISKCON Los Angeles — he wanted an MBA that blended professional advancement with values-driven leadership. He sought to sharpen his managerial skills, deepen his strategic thinking, and align his leadership style with the principles of conscious, ethical governance.
The AFSM MBA supported that vision precisely. Throughout the program, Bob strengthened his leadership qualities, refined his decision-making abilities, and developed the confidence to navigate complex organizational environments. During his studies, he switched companies and experienced clear career growth, applying his new insights to both his business responsibilities and his service within the ISKCON community.
Stay on track.
Advice: Consistency is everything. Keep pace with the modules, remain committed, and the transformation will unfold naturally.
Interesting: Bob’s motivation extended far beyond career advancement. As an initiated devotee and longstanding servant of Srila Prabhupada’s movement, he saw the MBA as a way to cultivate leadership qualities rooted in simplicity, high thinking, and ethical clarity. His goal is to expand his business ventures while simultaneously strengthening ISKCON’s resources, management, and long-term sustainability — especially through acquiring and developing properties that benefit the global mission.
He appreciated the flexibility of the online learning format, the practical nature of case studies, and the strong emphasis on conscious leadership — a philosophy that resonated deeply with both his personal values and professional responsibilities.
Why Bob Chose AFSM: A desire to strengthen leadership and ethical decision-making | Deep alignment with conscious leadership principles | Flexible online format suitable for busy executives | Comprehensive curriculum with real-world application | Strong foundation to support ISKCON managerial service | Pathway to expanding his business portfolio responsibly and sustainably.
Sylvester Bezegr
Highlight: With more than two decades of service as a missionary and Zonal Supervisor, Sylvester joined AFSM as one of the most senior members of his cohort — a living reminder that growth has no expiry date.
He chose the program because it mirrored his own values: humility, service, ethics, and lifelong learning. What he found was a transformative experience that refined his administrative skills, strengthened his strategic perspective, and deepened his ability to lead teams with compassion and spiritual groundedness. His journey inspired many classmates, proving that leadership is ageless when the heart remains open.
“Conscious leadership widened my perspective and renewed my confidence. This program didn’t just expand my skills — it expanded my service.”
Advice: “Pursue this program wholeheartedly. It will strengthen your leadership and refine your character. The investment you make here will guide your mission for years to come.”
Interesting:Even with decades of leadership behind him, Sylvester found himself growing in unexpected ways. He applied AFSM’s teachings immediately — improving communication, fostering collaboration, and guiding his teams with greater clarity. The MBA became more than an academic path; it became a personal renewal.
Why Sylvester Chose AFSM: Alignment with his life of service | A program built on ethics and conscious leadership | Flexible study for those working in demanding environments | Practical case studies rooted in real challenges | Faculty and mentors who lead with integrity and compassion.
