Taking an active role in improving lives
By Iswarya
I am looking forward to taking part in more opportunities that stimulate conversations about the global economy and how we can actively have a role in making the world a more equitable place.
Adjusting to life back in Boston was definitely a whirlwind. But settling back into classes has let me really appreciate the experiences that we had in South Africa. It was really exciting to have the opportunity to see the business principles that we had learned so much about in a setting where we could see the real-world applications and effects. The opportunity to go to a different country and explore the ways that companies are aiming to improve the lives of people in the community was truly inspiring.
Going to South Africa provided me with a new outlook on how emerging countries that have prominent business structures can still real economic and social struggles. Learning about the 30% unemployment rate was really shocking, because the area in which we were staying showed no proof of that statistic. The effects of the unemployment rate could be seen much more evidently in the proper city center of Johannesburg and in Hillsborough, where the younger population were forced to sell items on the sides of roads so as to actually make money to survive. Seeing this really made me think about how communities are still impacted by segregation, even with the multitude of initiatives in place that are meant to alleviate the disparity caused by Apartheid. Visiting the Apartheid museum was one of the most valuable experiences that we had in Johannesburg because as an outsider I did not fully understand the horrible acts and crimes that were committed in order to keep the people of South Africa segregated. Visiting this museum led me to think about how when it comes to race and racial tension, history seems to repeat itself time and time again.
The company visits helped to highlight important issues that need to be tackled to allow for more equitable circumstances for all people and communities in South Africa. Our conversation about the lack of access to electricity at Eaton Electric was really interesting because access to electricity has always been considered a basic utility that is always available. Creating access to these crucial utilities is important in creating equality among all the populations and communities in South Africa.
This field seminar really helped provide me with insights and experiences that have helped to round out my experiences thus far at Questrom. I am looking forward to taking part in more opportunities that stimulate conversations about the global economy and how we can actively have a role in making the world a more equitable place.