Date February 25, 2025
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Through the lens: The IE Brown Executive MBA Cape Town experience

Take a look at the IE Brown Executive MBA Cape Town immersion experience through the students' lens, as the cohort works with township entrepreneurs and explores local culture, history and business challenges.

Students in the IE Brown Executive MBA program recently visited Cape Town, South Africa, for the annual immersion experience. This week-long residency is a core component of the 15-month Executive MBA curriculum, designed to expose students to entrepreneurial opportunities in developing regions.

Over the course of the week, the cohort collaborated in teams to develop innovative business solutions for township entrepreneurs. Students attended lectures on South Africa’s history, culture and business landscapes, tackling real challenges faced by township communities and applying creative problem-solving skills to design solutions tailored to the local environment.

Beyond the classroom, the experience offered countless opportunities for cultural discovery. From dinners with local entrepreneurs to thoughtful conversations with community leaders, students were fully immersed in Cape Town’s vibrant energy.

The Cape Town immersion is a testament to the IE Brown Executive MBA program's commitment to fostering socially responsible leaders equipped to drive positive change. To learn more about the program, visit emba.brown.edu. 

The group kicked off the weeklong residency by enjoying delicious wine and food at the vineyard, one of the few owned and operated by Black South Africans.
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The group kicked off the weeklong residency by enjoying delicious wine and food at the vineyard, one of the few owned and operated by Black South Africans.

Students visited Robben Island, gaining insight into South Africa’s history. The visit provided important insights into the leadership and legacy of Nelson Mandela as he peacefully ushered in democracy and rights for all South Africa.
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Students visited Robben Island, gaining insight into South Africa’s history. The visit provided important insights into the leadership and legacy of Nelson Mandela as he peacefully ushered in democracy and rights for all South Africa.

Students posed in front of the Robben Island Museum World Heritage Site sign, commemorating their visit to the historic landmark.
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Students posed in front of the Robben Island Museum World Heritage Site sign, commemorating their visit to the historic landmark.

To thank project sponsors from the townships, the session was capped off with an informal social gathering. Pictured are leaders of the South African Busy Bees Rugby Team joined with the IE Brown team.
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To thank project sponsors from the townships, the session was capped off with an informal social gathering. Pictured are leaders of the South African Busy Bees Rugby Team joined with the IE Brown team.

Many students visit famous South African sites before the project work starts. A team enjoys the views from Chapman’s Point Drive.
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Many students visit famous South African sites before the project work starts. A team enjoys the views from Chapman’s Point Drive.

Students enjoyed the picturesque views and natural beauty of South Africa.
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Students enjoyed the picturesque views and natural beauty of South Africa.

Project work starts prior to arrival in South Africa and the week supporting entrepreneurs is intense, but there is time to partake in the natural beauty of Cape Town.
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Project work starts prior to arrival in South Africa and the week supporting entrepreneurs is intense, but there is time to partake in the natural beauty of Cape Town.

Program Director Brendan McNally pictured with Kayle Solms, a South African partner who supports the program logistics.
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Program Director Brendan McNally pictured with Kayle Solms, a South African partner who supports the program logistics.

Chapman's Peak Drive and perfect view of Houts Bay.
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Chapman's Peak Drive and perfect view of Houts Bay.

Final presentations by students to their project sponsors capped the intensive week. Over 70 people gathered to hear student insights and recommendations.
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Final presentations by students to their project sponsors capped the intensive week. Over 70 people gathered to hear student insights and recommendations.

Business Leadership for a Better Future

A unique program designed for working executives, Brown's partnership with IE Business School offers students a globally ranked and triple-certified Executive MBA that bridges the gap between addressing strategic business priorities and creating positive impact.

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