Busayo Ladapo

University of Toronto, Rotman School of Management

“Creative and innovative entrepreneur, transforming beauty standards globally with strategic acumen and passion for empowerment.”

Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria

Fun Fact About Yourself: If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to fly. Imagine being able to soar across the skies to explore every corner of the globe. while basking in breathtaking views and exploring diverse cultures and experiences.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lagos, Biochemistry

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Dynamite World Empire Ltd, Chief Executive Officer

Integrative thinking is one of the cornerstones of the Rotman MBA experience. What does integrative thinking mean to you and how have you been able to apply it thus far? To me, integrative thinking is the art of weaving together diverse perspectives to forge innovative solutions. It’s like being a conductor of an orchestra, ensuring all different instruments play in harmony. In my entrepreneurial journey, I have merged unique insights from various team members to create distinctive business strategies that stand out in competitive markets. This approach not only led to innovative product designs but also fostered an inclusive and collaborative company culture.

What has been your favorite part of Toronto so far? Why? Toronto’s vibrant and diverse cultural scene has captivated me the most. I am fascinated by the city’s blend of global cultures, which mirrors the diversity of the global market exceptionally for business leaders. The city’s multicultural neighborhoods provide a mini-tour of the world, offering insights into consumer behaviors across different cultures that are invaluable for my businesses and relationships.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Toronto Rotman’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The defining element of Toronto Rotman’s MBA program that captivated me was The Creative Destruction Lab (CDL). As an entrepreneur passionate about innovation and technology, the opportunity to engage with one of the world’s fastest-growing venture labs was a major draw. CDL’s unique model of pairing MBA students with start-ups and seasoned entrepreneurs offers a rare, hands-on experience in the world of entrepreneurship. This was crucial for me because it aligned perfectly with my aspirations to lead a black-owned conglomerate. The prospect of directly applying academic learnings to real-world business challenges, while receiving invaluable mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and investors, made Rotman an irresistible choice for my MBA journey.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Toronto Rotman? The Foundations of Strategic Management course has been the most interesting for me. This course is like a master key that unlocks the mysteries behind why some companies soar high while others struggle to take off. It goes beyond the textbook, diving into real-world scenarios where business giants and startups play a high-stakes game of strategic chess. I’ve learned to look at businesses not just as entities selling products or services, but as intricate puzzles where every piece, from supply chain decisions to employee motivation, fits into a larger strategic picture. The course has transformed my thinking. Now, when I see a company excelling, I understand the deep-rooted strategies at play, the clever positioning against rivals, and the innovative leaps they take to stay ahead. It’s like having X-ray vision in the business world, seeing layers deeper than the obvious.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment in my career so far has been transforming my passion into three successful global businesses: a revolutionary skincare line, a trendsetting fashion label, and a premium hair extensions brand. Each venture started as a dream to empower young women across the world with products that make them feel confident and beautiful, while celebrating our rich African heritage. What makes this journey extraordinary is not just the successful scaling of these businesses in under five years in fiercely competitive markets, but also the incredible impact we have been able to create. The real power of these achievements lies in the messages from women around the globe who feel seen, valued, and confident through our products. This resonance of self-love and empowerment that our brands have fostered across continents is the true measure of success and the most rewarding aspect of my entrepreneurial journey.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: My most significant accomplishment as an MBA student at Rotman transcends academic excellence, but has been marked by two monumental achievements: the prestigious scholarships I have received through the Forte Fellowship and the Creative Destruction Lab. Winning the Forte Fellowship scholarship was more than a personal triumph; it was a powerful endorsement of my potential to inspire and lead a new generation of female business leaders. Simultaneously, earning another scholarship as a Creative Destruction Lab Fellow propelled me into the forefront of business innovation, where I am excited to navigate the complex and challenging world of startups in Toronto. I am proud to say that with the CDL, I am not just observing but actively shaping the future of business with likewise exceptional and brilliant minds. These accomplishments are the cornerstones of my MBA journey fueled by relentless ambition, transformative impact, and an unwavering commitment to diversity and innovation in the business world.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? My most cherished memory from my MBA journey so far is the formation and flourishing of a tight-knit community of African students and professionals. In a new environment, far from home, we have created a support system that wholeheartedly celebrates and supports one another regardless of our diverse cultures and backgrounds. It is a truly incredible and powerful testament to our unity, resilience, and mutual support. The priceless memories we share serve as a reminder that no matter where we are in the world, our community’s spirit remains a grounding and uplifting force, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness that is truly unparalleled.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Toronto Rotman’s MBA program? My advice to potential applicants is to be authentic and reflective in your application. Rotman values diverse perspectives and unique stories, so highlight what makes you stand out, whether it’s your entrepreneurial ventures, cultural background, or unconventional career path. Demonstrate how these experiences have shaped your business acumen and leadership potential, and showcase your willingness to grow both personally and professionally. Finally, demonstrate how the Rotman MBA aligns with your career goals and how you plan to contribute to the vibrant community at the business school. Best of luck and have fun with the application!

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