By Anushree Mathur, MBA2025
The opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world contexts and drive tangible impact was one of the key reasons I chose to pursue my MBA at London Business School. Among the most transformative experiences at LBS are the Global Experiences – intensive, faculty-led programmes that challenge students to navigate new industries, economies, and cultures. This February, I participated in the Lima Global Experience, a dynamic week filled with hands-on learning, cultural immersion, and social impact, alongside a diverse cohort of over 70 fellow MBA students.
Driving Social Impact
One of the highlights of the week was the opportunity to work on live consulting projects aiming to drive real change for local small businesses and NGOs. My team collaborated with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to refine the financial management of their fundraising strategies. Leveraging the diverse expertise within our team – ranging from Consulting to Finance and Marketing, and spanning nationalities from Georgia to India, Switzerland, Indonesia and the USA – we developed strategic recommendations to enhance efficiency and enable more data-driven decision-making. Applying our MBA learnings to help drive tangible impact for a local, mission-driven organisation, despite only being there for a week, was an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Exploring Peru’s Dual Economy
Throughout the week, we explored the stark contrasts shaping Peru’s economy – strengths, challenges, and future outlook. Guided by Professors Dominic Houlder and Aytekin Ertan, we engaged with industry leaders to unpack the forces driving Peru’s trajectory. The key theme of the week was the duality of the Peruvian economy and its pressing need for reinvention. Peru is a global powerhouse – ranking as the world’s second-largest producer of copper, silver, and tin, a major fruit exporter, and an internationally renowned cultural and culinary destination. Yet surrounding this, 70% of the workforce operates informally, exacerbating inequality, while political instability clouds long-term growth. We had the rare opportunity to discuss these dynamics with the CEO of Cía de Minas Buenaventura, a leading firm in Peru’s most vital sector – mining, which contributes over 10% of GDP and 58% of exports.
Beyond industry and macroeconomic trends, we explored the human side of the economy. At Lugar de la Memoria, a museum honouring victims of Peru’s internal conflict, we gained powerful insights into the country’s resilience and ongoing struggles. Conversations with LBS alumni at Club Nacional, a historic institution once reserved for Peruvian aristocracy, offered another perspective on Peru’s evolving social fabric. But the most striking contrast came during our community immersion with MedLife in San Juan de Miraflores, where we witnessed firsthand the deep socio-economic divide that continues to shape everyday life in Lima.
Immersing in Lima’s Vibrant Culture
As part of the week, we also had the chance to immerse ourselves in Lima’s vibrant culture, creativity, history, and, of course, incredible food. We meandered through Barranco, the city’s bohemian art district, filled with vibrant street art, independent galleries, and a thriving creative scene. A true highlight was indulging in Peru’s world-famous culinary scene, where we savoured delicacies such as Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, and Ají de Gallina. Our gastronomic journey wasn’t just about tasting; we also donned aprons for a Peruvian cooking class organised by the GE team, trying our hand at mastering the techniques behind these iconic dishes.
The week culminated with an unforgettable closing event at La Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca clay pyramid and important archaeological site. Dining at the renowned restaurant next to this landmark was a surreal experience. A fun fact: Peru grows over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, and our meal seemed to feature half of them, with long tables laden with potatoes in every form imaginable—boiled, fried, purple, and even in liquid form!
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip to Machu Picchu
Of course, no trip to Peru could be complete without visiting one of the world’s greatest wonders. Outside of the GE, I had the privilege of organising a trek to Cusco for 40 MBA students, where we explored the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, wandered through the picturesque city of Cusco, and hiked the Rainbow Mountain. Exploring some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world with my classmates made the adventure even more special, forging bonds that will undoubtedly last far beyond our MBA journey.
Final Reflections of an Unforgettable Experience
The Lima Global Experience was much more than just an academic course – it was a transformative journey of learning, cultural immersion, and personal growth. From working on impactful consulting projects to exploring Peru’s rich history and dynamic economy, the experience pushed me beyond my comfort zone in a new continent, and broadened my perspective on global business. Having taken three terms of Spanish language classes during my MBA, this trip also gave me an incredible opportunity to put my skills to the test and added a deeper layer of connection to the cultural experience. Most importantly, it forged lasting friendships with an incredible cohort, making it easily one of the most unforgettable highlights of my time at London Business School.