Nishka Hemrajh              

HEC Paris

“An ambitious, adrenaline junkie and food enthusiast who is always ready for a challenge/adventure!”

Hometown: Durban, South Africa

Fun Fact About Yourself: When I was young girl, I wanted to be a ballerina and did dance lessons for more than 10 years in pursuit of this rather unrealistic dream (given my skill level).

Undergraduate School and Major: University of the Witwatersrand – Bachelor of Science (Actuarial Science)

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Investment Consultant at Mentenova

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of HEC Paris’ MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The motto of the school – “Learn to dare” – drew me in. I think I have always been scared to take big risks in my Entrepreneurial journey and I loved HEC’s Entrepreneurial specialization and focus. I cannot wait to learn throughout my MBA and to finally have enough courage to dare after it.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at HEC Paris?  I am most excited about the student clubs at HEC Paris. These are student run clubs that provide a platform to enhance our leadership skills as well as deep dive into certain industries. I am especially interested in the Entrepreneurial Club and the Luxury Club. Given the school’s reputation and location, it has deep ties to the luxury industry and I’d love to learn a bit more about this.

HEC Paris is just 17 kilometers from Paris. What do you see as the best part of earning your MBA so close to Paris? Being in such close proximity to one of the greatest cities of all time will undoubtedly be an exhilarating experience! I cannot wait to immerse myself in the vibrant culture of Paris (and eat all the pastries). However, what is equally as exciting is the prospect of living in a community of such diverse peers in a more tranquil setting. I really cannot wait to experience what I think will be the best of both worlds.

Historically, over 90% of HEC Paris’ MBA students hail from outside France. Why is exposure to global diversity so critical to business success? I come from a country known as the “The Rainbow Nation”. I’ve experienced the power of diverse perspectives throughout school, friendships and in corporate environments. Witnessing firsthand the strength that emerges from a team enriched by varied backgrounds and outlooks, I’ve come to appreciate the ease of thinking outside the box. As I embark on my journey at HEC, I look forward to learning from my diverse cohort, embracing global perspectives, and fostering a truly inclusive experience.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment so far has been when one of my client’s, as an Investment Consultant, asked me to be an Independent Trustee on their new Transformation Trust. This role has reinforced my skill and has showed me how to make a significant impact through my work with the upliftment of previously disadvantaged groups. This position has further fueled my passion for creating positive change and advancing opportunities for underprivileged communities.

Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience successful? I would like to be able to look back and say I gave it my best shot, in terms of grabbing opportunities and working diligently. I would also love to walk away from the MBA with lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into HEC Paris’s MBA program?  My advice would be to not hold anything back in your application. When you apply, commit fully and don’t be afraid of failure. The application will require a lot of self-reflection, be honest with yourself and your goals. Sometimes we become our own greatest obstacles.

DON’T MISS: MEET THE HEC PARIS MBA CLASS OF 2025