Exploring Innovation and Entrepreneurship: London Business School MBA Students' Inspiring Journey to Palestine

It’s becoming a? yearly ritual- the visit of MBA students from 英国伦敦商学院 . This extraordinary initiative has emerged as a powerful bridge connecting Palestine's thriving tech and entrepreneurial scene with the global academic community. Under the theme of "Fostering Innovation & Entrepreneurship in Palestine," the visit was meticulously curated, setting the stage for a transformative experience.

The excitement surrounding this venture was palpable as David Meyer, a professor of economics at London Business School, expressed his enthusiasm. He highlighted how this journey has become a cherished tradition, one that continuously unveils the dynamic startup sector in Palestine. The students embarked on this journey with open minds, eager to immerse themselves in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Gaza Sky Geeks and Flow Accelerator, two instrumental players in the Palestinian entrepreneurial ecosystem, orchestrated the event with precision, anchored in the overarching theme of "Contextualizing the Drivers of Innovation." This theme, a flagship endeavor of London Business School's Global Experience program, promised to unveil the multifaceted landscape of Palestinian entrepreneurship.

This annual visit is not just a mere excursion; it's a gateway to transformative experiences. It has the potential to reshape perceptions of Palestine, providing students from diverse backgrounds and corners of the world with invaluable insights into the Palestinian context. This context is a tapestry woven with challenges and opportunities on economic, political, and technological fronts.

The event kicked off with an informative introduction by Alan el Kadhi, Director of Gaza Sky Geeks. Alan provided valuable insights into the Gaza Sky Geeks program, its context, and the challenges it addresses. He also offered young students guidance on ways to support GSG, including mentoring, donations, and creating internship opportunities for Palestinian tech talents.

A key highlight of this initiative is the presence of Sam Bahour , the Managing Partner at Applied Information Management (AIM) . Mr. Bahour possesses a profound understanding of the Palestinian context. His ability to articulate the challenges facing Palestinian entrepreneurs is invaluable. Through engaging discussions, students gain a deep experience of the intricacies that define the entrepreneurial journey in Palestine.

An enlightening panel discussion titled "The Future of Tech Business in Palestine" unfolded, featuring an all-star lineup of successful women in tech and business. Amber Amleh, Managing Partner at Ibtikar Fund ; Dr. Mona Dmeidi, chair of IEEE Palestine and founder of STEMpier; and Majd Khalifeh, CEO of Flow Accelerator, brought their wealth of knowledge to the forefront. The panel, moderated by Rand Safi, GSG's West Bank Manager, created an atmosphere of inspiration and empowerment. Students eagerly fired questions at the panelists, grasping the essence of resilience and innovation that defines Palestinian entrepreneurship.

David Meyer noted that this visit has benefited the students by opening their eyes to the fact that businesses can thrive even in regions marked by socio-political challenges. It has broadened their horizons, revealing untapped business opportunities and the potential to use their skills to support Palestinian startups.

One student, Andrew Anjsim, shared her profound learning experience, highlighting how this visit had reshaped his perspective on the Arab state. He expressed how the visit had educated him in ways he never anticipated. Moreover, he emphasized the potential for international collaboration and the wealth of knowledge and talent he encountered among Palestinian entrepreneurs.

At the end of the visit, there was a 'Speed Dating' session with LBS students and Palestinian Startup founders, In these interactive sessions, LBS students had the unique opportunity to connect with Palestinian entrepreneurs. These interactions, often forming the bedrock of future collaborations, were not just about exchanging business cards but fostering authentic relationships grounded in shared values and aspirations.

LBS students departed Palestine with a profound appreciation for the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that thrives amidst the challenges. This annual ritual is not just about a visit; it's about forging enduring bonds and expanding horizons. It's a testament to the power of knowledge, connectivity, and the unyielding spirit of entrepreneurship in one of the world's most inspiring places – Palestine.

Anas Chazi from Montreal, Canada, and an LBS student shared his amazement at the quality of speakers, the diversity, and the incredible knowledge exchange he witnessed in Palestine's ecosystem. Each year, this visit leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the students, affirming the belief that innovation knows no borders and entrepreneurial zeal transcends boundaries.

In a world where barriers are often emphasized, this annual journey to Palestine stands as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, connectivity, and the pursuit of knowledge. It is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a brighter future for entrepreneurs.