When Dr. Nouf Mahmoud joined the Executive MBA program at HEC Paris, she brought with her a sharp scientific mind, a results-driven mindset, and the determination to build something meaningful. What she didn't anticipate was how deeply her thinking - and her philosophy of business and leadership - would evolve.
In her own words, Nouf shares how the EMBA reshaped not just her business, but her entire approach to decision-making and growth.
“Within a few months after graduating, I not only applied what I learned; I digested it. The ‘Test Your Own Startup’ specialization built the foundational anatomy of my business: from identifying researchers’ and students’ needs to building fast, lean, and impactful services.
One of the most powerful lessons I internalized was how to make people feel the pain of their problems and see the light of our solutions. Within two months of launching, we secured international accreditation – not by chasing it, but by making our value undeniable. The EMBA gave me the lens to look beyond local expectations.
Coming from a scientific background, I was focused on ‘control,’ ‘precision,’ ‘results,’ and setting painful targets. But business doesn't reward rigidity. The program shifted my approach from a cautious problem-solver to a strategic negotiator with a flexible mindset. The real shift came from learning how to step back from the microscope and see the ecosystem.
The return on investment? It’s far richer than revenue – it’s the maturation of every skill.
My advice to other founders: Don’t pursue an EMBA just for the credential. Use it to reshape how you see, how you listen, and how you act. It’s not just a business school; it’s a fundamental shift.”
Nouf’s story is a powerful reminder that true learning extends beyond the classroom - it’s about rewiring how we think, lead, and create. For founders navigating complexity or scaling purpose-driven ventures, her journey highlights the deeper value of investing in personal evolution.
Because in the end, success isn't just about revenue. Sometimes, it’s about perspective and the growth that comes with it.
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