The Sheffield MBA has helped me to see myself a global leader

Norest Nyasha Marwa.
Norest Nyasha Marwa
Postgraduate student
MBA
2026
Norest came to Sheffield from Zimbabwe to study his MBA. He reflects on the key aspects of his MBA experience that have developed his skills and transformed his mindset.
Norest Nyasha Marwa.

I wanted to refine my leadership and decision-making skills in a global context

Before starting my MBA, I was leading operations as the Founder and Director of AgroMenta and Ship&Sort Logistics in Zimbabwe. My work involved food supply chains, logistics coordination and mentoring young farmers. I was also actively involved in research and policy discussions on climate change, food security and sustainable agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Despite this practical experience in entrepreneurship, I still needed formal tools to scale ideas and lead at a global level. I wanted to refine my leadership and strategic decision-making skills in a global context. An MBA felt like the next step to bridge local impact with global thinking.

The Sheffield MBA's structure was the perfect choice for someone with global ambitions

The Sheffield MBA stood out to me for its emphasis on responsible leadership, practical challenge modules and the diversity of its student community. The inclusion of consultancy, internationalisation and personal development as core pillars made it the perfect choice for someone with global ambitions like mine.

Throughout the programme, the themes of leadership, entrepreneurship and consultancy have been central. The Marketing Consultancy Challenge, New Venture Creation Challenge and Organisational Crisis Management module have given me a hands-on approach to problem solving and decision making. I've developed a stronger ability to lead ethically, think entrepreneurially and offer practical solutions to complex business issues.

Sheffield provided the perfect environment for reflection and growth

Moving to the UK was both exciting and humbling. Sheffield quickly felt like home because of its friendly community, diversity and calm rhythm - a perfect environment for reflection and growth. I also found a sense of belonging in student groups and Christian-based communities that reminded me of home.

The word 'Sheffield' in Christmas lights.

Returning to studies was definitely an adjustment, especially balancing coursework with part-time work and business interests. However the programme is well-structured and the support from academic staff, peers and student services helped me find my rhythm. The collaborative environment made it easier to re-engage with academic life.

The London Career Safari was an incredible opportunity

One of the standout highlights of my MBA journey was the London Career Safari. It was an incredible opportunity to visit top-tier companies, network with industry professionals and gain first-hand insight into what leadership and innovation look like in real-world corporate settings. The experience deepened my understanding of career possibilities post-MBA and helped me visualise how I could apply my skills in different sectors.

The international study trip gave me a global perspective on management practices

Another unforgettable moment was the international study trip to Germany. Immersing ourselves in Germany's business culture, touring companies and engaging in cross-cultural workshops, gave me a global perspective on management practices. It also allowed me to bond my cohort in a new environment, reinforcing the value of collaboration and adaptability.

Norest and fellow students outside Mannheim Business School.

The Personal, Professional and Career Development module helped me refine my leadership style

The Personal, Professional and Career Development helped me to refine my personal brand, leadership style and long-term vision. It gave structure to my self-development journey, from CV workshops to mock interviews and personal reflection sessions. It's not just about finding a job, it's about becoming the kind of leader who creates opportunities for others too.

My dissertation has made me more passionate about designing efficient and resilient systems

For the Individual MBA Challenge, I decided to do a traditional dissertation. My topic is 'Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience in UK Care Providers: Strategies for Service Continuity During Disruptions'. This research has deepened my understanding of operational risks in critical sectors and has made me more passionate about designing systems that are both efficient and resilient.

The MBA has helped me to see myself a global leader

The Sheffield MBA has expanded my horizons. I now see myself as a global leader with the mindset and tools to work across industries. It has also clarified my desire to work in sustainable operations, consulting or innovation within the health or food systems sectors.

In the short term, I am to join a graduate or management development programme in the UK that aligns with my interests in healthcare. Long term, I want to return to Africa and scale AgroMenta into a regional platform that empowers farmers, enhances food security and promotes inclusive growth.

My advice for future MBA students

Come with purpose. Be open to being stretched, challenged and changed. The Sheffield MBA is not just about modules, it's about mindset. If you're looking for a place where knowledge meets community, ambition meets humility, and dreams become strategy, this is it.