Beyond Books: A Tale of Growth and Success at Sunway University
Globalisation and entrepreneurship lie at the core of what Saadman envisioned for himself in his career. Making use of the knowledge acquired during his Sunway days, Saadman combined that with his business acumen to truly expand his enterprises beyond the borders of Bangladesh. Now he divides his time between Dubai, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, USA, Brazil and Bangladesh.
Saadman graduated from Sunway Business School after studying the Business Studies Programme offered in partnership with Lancaster University. The programme prepared him with essential business knowledge such as Accounting, Finance, Supply Chain Management, International Markets and other diverse modules. This provided Saadman with a global and diverse perspective of how synergy can be achieved from different perspectives. “From the moment I stepped onto the campus, I was greeted by a vibrant and inclusive community of educators, fellow students, and staff who were dedicated to fostering a rich learning environment,” says Saadman about his time at Sunway Business School.
Reflecting on his journey at Sunway Business School as an international student, Saadman opted to do a cross-regional analysis between Bangladesh and Malaysia for his final year project. “That gave me a different perspective of how consumers in different regions can react to different marketing approaches”. This perspective helped Saadman to understand and grow his life insurance business in Bangladesh which he took control of in September of 2019, four months after he graduated from Sunway Business School. Moreover, Saadman’s involvement in the Student Professional Development extracurricular activity not only prepared him for corporate life after graduation but also provided him with an enriched campus life during his years of study at Sunway Business School. State-of-the-art facilities like the library and sports facilities gave him the motivation to achieve and do more during his time there. “When I saw that Sunway Business School had unveiled its ‘think tank’ on campus to support young entrepreneurs on their startup goals, it was a dream come true. That showed me how fostering entrepreneurial spirit was at the forefront of Sunway University” said Saadman.
During the mandatory internship period of Saadman’s programme as an international student, it was not the easiest journey to secure a position. Most companies would rather develop their local talents rather than international students. Nevertheless, Sunway Business School provided Saadman with the right support and put in considerable hours with him to secure a position at AirAsia, the world’s largest budget airline where at the time, Saadman was the 3rd intern they had ever hired. Almost immediately after graduating, Saadman joined his family business at Energy Solution BD, a power producer and Engineering Service provider in Bangladesh. His dedication to sustainability was evident immediately as his first line of action was to rush into renewable energy through the means of utility and rooftop Solar Power Plant. He aims to contribute to the net zero goals of his government and his personal goal of reducing his company’s carbon footprint.
Sunway Business School’s focus towards teamwork throughout all the coursework has taught valuable lessons to Saadman in terms of leadership skills, being able to work as a team and moments of individual flair during presentations and assignments. Saadman’s experience at Sunway Business School proved to be a memorable one as his closest friends and confidants studied and graduated with him. Between jet-setting and boardrooms, Saadman spends quality time with his former classmates while sharing a meal or taking a vacation together.
While profitability is a key metric for Saadman to consider in his professional life he believes that Sunway Business School has taught him to consider the triple bottom line theory and incorporate it into his company ethos and culture: People, Planet and Profit. In the ever-changing industry of energy and mineral resources, sustainability is a constant consideration in the 21st century. Traditional forms of power generation are being phased off and every government is deciding on a date to reach their net zero emission desires. Saadman is at the forefront of that industry where perseverance, tenacity, patience and steely resolve are required to navigate those rough seas and come out on the other side.
To the current and future students of Sunway Business School, Saadman would like to urge them to remember that university is not just a destination; it is a transformative experience waiting to unfold. Embrace the challenges, relish the opportunities, and savour the knowledge that you are about to embark on a journey that will shape not only your career but also your character. In the lecture halls, laboratories, and collaborative spaces, you will encounter not just subjects but ideas that challenge and inspire. You will forge friendships that will endure, and mentors who will guide you beyond textbooks. The campus is not merely a collection of buildings; it is a vibrant community where diversity is celebrated, and perspectives are broadened. This chapter of your life is a canvas waiting for your unique imprint.
In conclusion, Saadman’s journey academically and professionally is beyond books and curriculum, it is the result of what a good education and environment can provide to a human being who has the proper motivation. Saadman’s journey underscores how Sunway Business School’s commitment to the global perspective, teamwork, and entrepreneurial support catalyzed his success. His achievements in renewable energy and dedication to sustainability exemplify the transformative power of a supportive educational environment and the university’s enduring commitment to student growth.
Edited by
Arumugam Muthusamy
Sunway Business School
Email: [email protected]