If I were to pick one of the true highlights of my IMD MBA journey, it would be my Global Network Week at EGADE Business School, Monterrey, Mexico. It was my first visit to Mexico, and from the moment I arrived, I felt at home. My new friend, Juan, welcomed me warmly, took me around the beautiful city, and introduced me to its local culture, food, and spirit. Monterrey struck me as a city built on entrepreneurial dreams full of energy, ambition, and people who hustle with heart.
I instantly fell in love with Mexican food. The spicy sauces reminded me of home. I was made to try corn mixed with cheese and sauce, probably the tastiest street food I’ve ever had. We visited museums, explored the city, and ended the evenings with long conversations about life and purpose. It was a perfect start to the week.
When classes began at EGADE, I was amazed by the diversity of participants. Students came from across the world, and every interaction added a new perspective. The sessions on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), taught by Professor Félix Cárdenas, were eye-opening. I learned how entrepreneurs can acquire existing businesses, lead them, and create value. The discussions on financing and structuring deals were deeply practical and gave me new ideas for the future.
Being an entrepreneur, I could connect with the course deeply. ETA combined entrepreneurship, finance, and leadership. I particularly liked how Professor Félix explained that acquisition is not about taking over but about carrying forward a legacy. It made me think of my own business and how succession and stewardship play a crucial role in long-term success.
Every day brought something new. From running along the Calzada track, one of the most scenic and peaceful routes I’ve ever seen, to visiting the Heineken brewery, where I witnessed operational excellence at scale, the experience was both educational and inspiring. My morning runs at Calzada became my quiet time to reflect, surrounded by trees, mountains, and warm sunshine. The panel on search funds in Mexico gave me confidence that such models could grow in emerging economies like India as well.
Our team’s presentation on ETA was a great bonding moment. Working together, sharing laughter, and presenting our ideas gave me a sense of joy. Outside the classroom, I had some wonderful outings with my IMD friends Jens, Julian, Miquel, Stefan, and Steffen. Deborah, the EGADE coordinator, was incredibly helpful throughout the week and even organized a wonderful cultural fest that brought everyone together.
The session with A.J. Wasserstein was another highlight. His message stayed with me: great CEOs work on the business, not in it. Focus on customers and employees, and build organizations that last. It perfectly summarized what leadership should be.
Mexico gave me warmth, perspective, and inspiration. The GNAM course was a reminder that true learning happens when we step outside our comfort zones. I left Monterrey with new friends, new ideas, and a wider sense of what’s possible.
