Back From Scholarships to Philanthropy: Abdurrahman Joomye MBA’24J’s Journey of Giving Back Abdurrahman Joomye MBA’24J Share Abdurrahman Joomye MBA’24J, began his journey to INSEAD 13 years ago when he moved to France, from Mauritius, to pursue a career as an architect. He started working part-time in an architecture firm in Paris during his studies at Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Paris la Villette. He eventually rose to the role of Project Director, in a role that merged architecture and real estate law.Despite his accomplishments, Abdurrahman felt a gap in his business knowledge in order to reach C-suite level positions, prompting him to pursue an MBA. The proximity of INSEAD to Paris, which allowed his wife to remain in her role, and its global reputation made it a natural choice. His initial encounter with INSEAD was at an MBA fair in Paris, where discussions with Julio Suarez solidified his decision.Scholarships played a crucial role in Abdurrahman’s journey. His strategic approach to applying for scholarships involved identifying those he was most suited for, a complex process of manually gathering information, cross-checking eligibility, and selecting the best options. This led to him being awarded a scholarship for students from Mauritius, reflecting his deep connection to his homeland.“Being a scholarship recipient myself, I understand the transformative power of financial support. It’s a cycle of giving and receiving that drives meaningful change."Receiving a scholarship not only facilitated Abdurrahman’s education but also increased his earning potential, enabling him to contribute more significantly to philanthropy. This cyclical nature of giving and receiving is evident in Abdulrahman’s philanthropic efforts. For nearly a decade, he has contributed to an education fund designed to help Mauritian students pursue education abroad. Recognising the limited educational opportunities in Mauritius, the fund aims to guide talented students through application processes for Ivy League schools and other prestigious institutions, assisting them in securing scholarships and financial support.This dual role as a scholarship recipient and a benefactor underscores Abdurrahman’s dedication to education and community support. His efforts help address the educational limitations in Mauritius while also confronting the issue of brain drain. Abdurrahman understands that while many students may not return to Mauritius, the broader goal is to empower them to achieve their potential, whether at home or abroad.The dilemma of balancing professional aspirations with a desire to support his home country is a recurring theme in Abdurrahman’s life. He acknowledges the importance of earning a higher income abroad to support philanthropic efforts in Mauritius. His long-term goal includes returning to Mauritius with experience and networks to offer meaningful contributions to the local economy and education system.Abdurrahman’s story reflects the broader challenges faced by many in the diaspora: the struggle to support their home country while advancing their careers internationally. His journey underscores the value of education, strategic planning, and the importance of maintaining connections to one’s roots, all while navigating the complexities of a global career. Share Related Content Entrepreneurship Driving Change, Shaping the Future: Key Insights from the INSEAD Entrepreneurship Forum 2024 Read more HGIBS/sustainability Harnessing the Sun: Ondine Suavet’s MBA'13D Path to Renewable Energy Leadership Read more Faculty and Research Addressing Global Challenges: The Impact of INSEAD's Research Initiatives and Support Read more