It was great stepping out of the routine to dive into the world of executive learning. With a background steeped in tech and a touch of strategy & leadership, I decided to embark into the Modular Executive MBA journey at Bayes Business School.

And guess what? It's been a whirlwind of insights, especially the recent professional development weekend at the Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa – our Achieving Your Potential getaway that came just at the right time, after an intense month of studies and exams.

The grand getaway

It was indeed an escape from the urban crowd into the serenity where the only task at hand is to unlock the hidden part within us and work with cohorts on exploring ourselves and solving problems.

I was part of a diverse group of dreamers and doers, all geared up for a weekend designed to challenge and change us. The stunning backdrop of our weekend retreat was perfect for some deep reflection!

The learning lab

Our very own Bayes superheroes, Alessandro Guidici (Reader in Strategy and Director of the Modular Executive MBA programme), and Alexander Cross (Head of Coaching & Leadership Development), alongside the Careers and Professional Development team, turned our weekend into a learning lab.

We were split into 4 groups, each with one instructor and a plenty of reflective exercises and deep discussions, we dissected our career paths and stitched together future ambitions.

It was like holding a mirror up to our potential and discovering the courage to step into it.

Team building activities

Saturday kicked off with us getting our hands dirty (quite literally) in team-building activities and deep dive into each person top 5 strengths.

Imagine a bunch of executives speaking openly and sharing their challenges – it was not just about fun and learning but about fostering trust and collaboration.

As we laughed and learned, we realised that leadership isn’t about steering the ship alone; it’s about ensuring everyone can sail together, even if it means getting soaked once in a while!

Partnership in action

Nothing bonds a team quite like a shared goal... We learned the coaching technique and switched roles and practiced on how to listen and inspire instead of advising and directing!

During a fireside chat, we heard from experts and current leaders between us about the importance of leadership and coaching skills.

True story: the best leaders are also the best inspirers. They listen effectively, ask powerful questions, and offer constructive feedback, all while maintaining a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

The takeaways

As the weekend wrapped up on Sunday, it felt like we all walked away stronger, more confident, armed with a deeper understanding of our abilities and how to channel them into our roles as future CEOs and entrepreneurs.

We’ve not just learned, but lived the principles of leadership, followership, and partnership. One of the many reflective moments where we all shared and grew together.

The MBA life unfolded

And for those of you wondering what it’s really like to be an Executive MBA student at Bayes? It’s this – it’s intense, it’s friendly, and it’s incredibly insightful.

You’re not just gaining knowledge; you’re building a community that pushes you to be better, do better, and achieve more.

Weekend at glance

As we wrap the weekend, there was an immense sense of anticipation for the future. The Achieving Your Potential weekend didn’t just teach us how to better lead, partner, or coach – it showed us the horizon of our capabilities, and now, we’re all set to sail toward it and change our daily routines.

If you're contemplating an MBA, think of it as the key to unlocking a version of yourself you’ve always known exists but haven't met yet.

Bayes isn’t just about the classroom; it’s about the experiences that help you to step up in your career and discover your potential.

And there you have it, friends – a snippet of my life-changing weekend and I can't wait to see where this journey takes me and all of us in the coming semester.

Looking forward for Kenya international weekend in March 2024, another place for excitement, groupwork, learning and achievements!