Folahan (Fola) Ajayi-Femi

Ivey Business School at Western University

“I am someone who finds opportunities in every situation.”

Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria.

Fun Fact About Yourself: I used to be a sprinter, I ran 200 metres and 400 metres in secondary school until university.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lagos, Major (Sociology). Pan-Atlantic University, Major (Marketing Communication and Management)

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: The Coca-Cola Company Africa.  Senior Manager, Category Insights Flavors

How has the case method enriched your learning? The case method has been my most challenging learning experience at Ivey, but this is precisely why I chose the school. The depth of the cases, crafted by faculty in collaboration with industry experts, is remarkable. They delve beyond the surface of concepts to explore their real-world applications. Initially, the case briefs may seem ambiguous, prompting thoughts like, “What am I supposed to do with this?” However, this ambiguity encourages deeper thinking and consideration of various possibilities and reasons behind actions. This method allows for individual and team exploration of solutions.

One memorable case involved a complex business merger that initially seemed overwhelming. Through collaborative analysis and class discussions, I developed a multi-faceted understanding of strategic decision-making in real-world scenarios. Even when solutions are incorrect, the process of learning through doing is invaluable. Additionally, class discussions further stimulate learning. For me, the case method has transformed my approach to problem-solving from a rigid method to a more diverse and comprehensive one.

Aside from classmates and cases, what part of the school’s MBA programming led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? While I had no idea who my classmates would be when choosing Ivey, its international reputation and the diversity of the student pool (as highlighted in the career report) made it my top choice. Now, being privileged to be among this amazing cohort is truly enriching. With about eight years of work experience before coming to Ivey, I sought a business school that emphasized practical learning over theoretical knowledge, and Ivey fits that criterion perfectly. For instance, in the Decision Making in Analytics course, we tackle real-world problems right in the classroom, which is exactly what I was looking for. Additionally, the strong alumni network and industry connections are remarkable. You can call any of the top 500 companies in Canada and likely find an Ivey alum there, showcasing the power of this network.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of the accomplishments I am most proud of was being part of a team that set the global campaign testing protocols for my previous firm. Right after COVID, many marketing professionals were struggling to test campaigns due to the constraints of the pandemic. We had to shift from traditional testing to fully digital methods and conduct tests simultaneously in various countries. This experience taught me the importance of agility, as change is a never-ending process.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: My biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far has been successfully navigating Ivey’s 24-Hour Report challenges. Ivey’s unique process of frequently reshuffling learning teams simulates real workplace dynamics, requiring us to solve problems with diverse groups. Initially, these reports were daunting due to unfamiliar personalities, working styles, and language barriers. However, I have gained invaluable experience by learning from my peers’ diverse cultures and approaches. As I prepare to change my learning team again, I feel more comfortable and less anxious, having already navigated this rigorous and collaborative process.

What has been your most memorable experience as an Ivey MBA thus far? One of my most memorable experiences as an Ivey MBA has been participating in Get Connected organized by career management. These events provide a valuable opportunity to network with recent alumni and put into practice the skills I’ve learned over the past few months in a familiar setting. This experience is particularly beneficial for international candidates, as it allows us to showcase our ideas and thought processes in a supportive environment where our perspectives are genuinely valued.

Where is your favorite hang-out in London (Ontario)? Why do you (or your classmates) gravitate there? Now, that’s a very contentious topic, as many of my classmates have their favorite spots. However, my favorite is Barney’s Patio and Bar on Richmond Street in downtown London. I gravitate there because it’s especially nice in the summer with its inviting outdoor vibe, great music, and delicious food.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? Currently, I am deeply immersed in the MBA program and all it has to offer, but my passion remains firmly rooted in the marketing field. After graduation, I hope to leverage the knowledge and skills gained from this program within a high-performance marketing or commercial environment, where I can make a significant impact and continue to grow in my career.

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