Geri Valova (EMBA’08) is a seasoned serial entrepreneur, who embarked on her career journey in the realms of business consulting and project management, subsequently venturing into lifestyle businesses and projects. Currently, she is immersed in the realm of entrepreneurship, spearheading two innovative startups.
Her first endeavor, known as Metasim, operates within the dynamic intersection of VR and AI, where she holds the position of COO. The second startup, Youbee, sees her at the helm as the CEO. Youbee stands as an all-encompassing mental health platform meticulously tailored for the younger generation. Through the deployment of cutting-edge machine learning algorithms, Youbee effectively matches young individuals with the most suitable support systems, proffering curated information, a secure and nurturing community space, and cost-effective access to expert assistance.
Geri’s academic accomplishment is extended to three Master degrees: in Business Administration, in English Literature, and the AUBG’s Executive MBA. As a businesswoman with a diverse portfolio encompassing advisory and wellness ventures spanning across Europe, her 18 years of experience is a testament to her proficiency in areas such as business development, project management, team leadership, and operations management. Geri is also a certified wellness coach, reflecting her commitment to holistic well-being.
Beyond her professional life, Geri’s happily married and proud mother of two children – a 19-year-old son and an 11-year-old daughter. Her deep affection for her family radiates warmly in her life, serving as a source of inspiration and motivation.
In honor of the 20th anniversary of the AUBG Executive MBA program, we are talking to some of the alumni who were part of this journey. Geri shared with us more about her Executive MBA studies and the impact it had on her personal and professional life.
The EMBA programme has given me a renewed sense of self-assurance. My confidence in my capabilities and potential as a leader has been strengthened by the knowledge, skills, and experiences I’ve obtained via the programme. This self-assurance has enabled me to take calculated risks, accept new challenges, and promote positive change within my organisation and industry. It has also made me more proactive, assertive, and innovative in how I approach my work.
Why EMBA at AUBG
My choice to enroll in the EMBA program at AUBG was primarily motivated by four main goals: expanding my professional network, developing my management skills, widening my perspective, and improving the management of my two businesses. Additionally, it perfectly complemented my aspirations and goals for my career.
The program is well known for its demanding coursework and focus on useful managerial skills. I wanted to improve my knowledge in crucial fields including strategic planning, money management, marketing, and operations. I am now more prepared to handle complicated business challenges and promote growth in my company.
I am now more prepared to handle complicated business challenges and promote growth in my company.
EMBA Highlights
Our cohort’s foreign trip to London and Zurich was the most memorable and significant highlight of my academic journey. As a result of this chance, I was able to learn a lot about international business practices. It was a life-changing opportunity for me to communicate meaningfully with executives, business owners, and subject matter experts while visiting nearby businesses. Through these interactions, I was able to learn firsthand about the tactics, difficulties, and opportunities that companies face in various international markets.
It also helped me form lifelong relationships with my fellow students and the professionals we met while there, in addition to the academic and professional advantages. My professional network has grown as a result of these connections, which also offer ongoing encouragement, support, and possible opportunities for collaboration.
Takeaways
The important networking possibilities that the EMBA program offered were the thing I gained the most from it. The program attracted seasoned individuals from a variety of industries and backgrounds, fostering an environment that was conducive to establishing and fostering long-lasting professional connections.
I had the pleasure of meeting some incredible students who contributed distinctive viewpoints, abilities, and experiences to our conversations and group assignments.
This collaborative approach also opened the door for deep connections that went beyond the walls of the classroom.
As a result of the connections I made with my peers during the program, I now have a solid, encouraging network of like-minded professionals who constantly inspire and push me professionally. Additionally, these networking opportunities have opened doors to potential partnerships, mentorship relationships, and collaborations that have had a big impact on my career trajectory.
AUBG impact
I am incredibly grateful for the significant influence my EMBA experience has had on my work life when I think back on it.
I had the honour of studying under outstanding lecturers who brought their knowledge and enthusiasm to the classroom throughout the EMBA program. The vibrant academic environment and the camaraderie among students and professors made the weekends spent at the AUBG campus really fun and engaging.
My grasp of the global business environment has grown as a result of the varied curriculum and exposure to different industries and cultural settings. This all-encompassing viewpoint has enabled me to approach opportunities and difficulties with a more educated and nuanced mindset, leading to improved decision-making and more successful problem-solving.
My capacity to “put everything in its place,” that is, to efficiently organize, plan, and prioritize my professional endeavors, has been another key outcome of my EMBA experience.
Piece of advice
Don’t wait – If you are thinking about enrolling in the EMBA program, I urge you to do so immediately. The program provides a plethora of information, useful skills, and networking opportunities that can have a big impact on both your professional and personal development. Your investment in your education and growth will be more than worthwhile.
Link theory to reality – The EMBA program places a strong emphasis on the practical, real-world applications of theoretical principles. I urge you to actively look for opportunities to apply the knowledge you have gained in class in your professional setting.
And finally, don’t underestimate the Finance course.
Inspired to pursue EMBA?
