Current Student, Katia Bidoung, MBA 2026 reflects on Black History Month, the benefits of receiving the Black in Business Scholarship and the impact of being a member of the Black in Business Club.
What inspired you to pursue your studies at London Business School?
I first heard about London Business School during a conference with the CEO of my former company, Clare Woodman. She mentioned how her MBA had given her the competency and confidence to reach senior leadership. She was also a strong ally of the Black community. Thanks to her testimony, I saw London Business School as the ideal place to meet inspiring leaders committed to Diversity and Inclusion.
What did it mean to you to be selected as a Black in Business Scholarship recipient?
Being selected as a Black in Business Scholarship recipient meant I could afford these two years in London without the urgency to apply for part-time jobs. I was allowed to focus on my studies and make the most of professional and networking opportunities on campus. I felt relieved.
How has receiving this scholarship impacted your masters journey so far?
Thanks for the scholarship. I have been able to afford two trips organized by members of my cohort. Last October, 200 of us traveled to Tuscany for a week. We visited Pisa and Florence and enjoyed a winery tour. In December, the Snow Trek hosted a ski trip in Val-Thorens, France, for 300 students, and I learned to ski for the first time. Through these events and many others, I get to experience new activities and build strong relationships with fellow students worldwide.
How do you see this scholarship supporting your long-term career and leadership ambitions?
I have also used part of the scholarship to attend impactful conferences inside and outside the London Business School campus. I was inspired by some of the speakers and got to connect with like-minded attendees for potential future collaborations. One of the most moving speeches was by Bobbi Pickard, CEO of Trans in the City. Thanks to these, I feel a lot more equipped to understand the stakes of the business world today.
What advice would you give to future applicants considering applying for this scholarship?
My advice is to take the time to self-reflect and define how they have impacted their community’s diversity and inclusion and why they want to continue helping others in that direction. Sometimes, brainstorming with friends and family who know you well provides excellent insights.
What does being a part of the Black in Business Club mean to you?
To me, the Black in Business crew is a second family. It is a team of students with whom I can always be my most authentic self and get the joy and support I need. We rejoice from other members’ personal, professional, or academic news. Because we have members who have lived on all continents and worked in different sectors, we get to learn from each other and understand what being Black in Business means in Dubai, Lagos, or New York City.
Can you share any initiatives or events within BiB that have been particularly impactful for you?
Last November, BiB organized a three-day retreat on the Isle of Wight. During this retreat, we were lucky to attend a leadership masterclass by Masibu Manima, founder of Translate Culture, which helps companies use data for their strategy, marketing, and communication. I was inspired by how prioritizing strong values has helped his business grow brands to dozens of millions of pounds.
Why do you think clubs like Black in Business are so important in business schools and beyond?
Since we started the program last August, several students have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn about the cultures and experiences of the Black students on campus. London Business School is a university that prepares the leaders of tomorrow for management in a multicultural environment. For example, clubs such as Black in Business are at the heart of these conversations by presenting Black Fortune 500 CEOs during MBA Finance classes.
What does Black History Month mean to you personally?
Being born in France, where Black History Month is not officially recognized, I feel grateful for the opportunity to celebrate with fellow students, both Black and allies. The LBS school year is paved by festive cultural events in which all students have the chance to discover history from all over the world, from Diwali to Chinese New Year. I’m excited to count Black History Month as one of them.
How do you see yourself contributing to the legacy of Black leaders in business?
Since 2014, I have been involved in charity-led mentorship initiatives targeting young underprivileged students. Giving back and assisting future leaders is essential, as I assisted myself as a younger engineering student. I am committed to providing all the advice and networking opportunities that I have gained in my career to ensure that the leaders of tomorrow are even more diverse than they are today.
If you could leave one piece of advice for future Black students at LBS, what would it be?
One of LBS’s most significant assets is its cohort of students, so make the most of it. You will find friends, mentors, sponsors, advisors, inspiration, and more! That is what you will want to remember in 20 years.