If you’re reading this, it means I made it into Semester 2/4 of my MBA at the Michigan State University – Eli Broad College of Business (Go Green!)—and in one piece! It was touch-and-go for a while, but here we are.
Few (mabe many) Updates:
Semester 1 was ROUGH.
Balancing the transition from running several businesses full-time to diving into full-time academia was no small feat. I had to rework my entire routine—from responding to emails at odd hours (the entrepreneurial way) to dedicating my time to classes, studying, and assignments. It was a complete recalibration of my “normal.”
Winter Break? A Marvel.
For the first time in what feels like forever, I didn’t travel (to Africa). Instead, I spent most—let’s be honest, all—of my time indoors. It was a season of reflection, writing (finally), and recalibrating my perspective on being back in school. I’ve come to realize that I genuinely enjoy being a student, and I might just stay in academia for a while longer.
Progress at Ntha Foundation and Kwathu Kollective.
I’ve spent significant time refining and advancing our efforts. We recently partnered with the Malawi University of Science and Technology to host the first Kwathu Kareers workshop, and the learnings were invaluable—not just for the students, but also for my team and I. On top of that, we’re actively planning CIDCON Africa 2025 (so exciting!) and launching our first global student exchange pilot program. I can’t wait to share more soon.
Bien Corporation and Q2 Corporation Updates.
I finally dusted off the Bien Corporation Africa files (the ones I left behind in 2022 when I joined the UN) and made real progress. I might even have incorporated Q2 Corporation in South Africa. But more on that later.
Winter in Lansing? It’s REAL.
Let’s talk about Lansing winters: warmer clothing, protected hair, and learning to embrace the cold. I partly moved here for the experience of a real winter (New York winters were… meh), and I have no regrets. Sure, it’s freezing, but the beauty of the snow-covered scenery is breathtaking—if you can ignore the biting cold.
New Roles, New Excitement.
I’m thrilled to share that I’m now a Graduate Teaching Assistant with the College of Engineering at MSU. It’s an opportunity I’m incredibly excited about. I also continue to serve as the Career Liaison for the #BroadMBA #Classof2026. And, of course, I’m still immersing myself in research on the gaming industry as I gear up for my internship with Xbox.
Looking Ahead.
There’s so much to reflect on, and even more to look forward to. I plan to write more this year (follow this blog at byntha.com for updates). I might even return to my podcast, The Lessons Conversation, time-permitting.
So, here’s to a brilliant 2025 ahead! Happy New Year (yes, it’s still a new year). I’m wishing you joy, growth, and success in all your endeavors. ♥️✨
With some winterly love,
– Ntha
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