Shah Saqib  Ajmery,  IMBA Class of 2026 (Cohort 2024)

As a current IMBA student at Renmin University of China, I’ve had the opportunity to experience world-class education and a truly global perspective. But nothing brought these elements together more powerfully than Global Network Week 2025 (GNW 2025). This wasn’t just a program—it was a journey. A journey that took me deep into the heart of China's technological transformation, opened doors to leading companies, and connected me with an inspiring group of professionals from around the world. With 75 participants from 19 countries, GNW 2025 was a melting pot of ideas, backgrounds, and ambition—and I’m grateful to have been part of it.

Participants of GNW 2025 at Renmin Business School

A Home Advantage: Hosting GNW as a Renmin Student

Being a student at Renmin already gave me a sense of pride, but hosting peers from around the world elevated that pride to a new level. From the moment our guests arrived, Renmin Business School delivered a flawless program—professional, welcoming, and deeply insightful. It was a privilege to see my university in the spotlight and to witness firsthand how well it represents the future of global education. More importantly, it gave me the chance to contribute to that representation by engaging with visiting professionals and sharing my experience.

Lectures That Sparked New Thinking

Two sessions especially stood out for me. First was Mickey Li’s lecture on China’s ‘Digital  Silk Road’. Having studied China’s digital economy in theory, it was energizing to hear from someone who has been on the front lines. His take on China’s transition from manufacturing hub to innovation leader reshaped how I see the country I’m studying in. The phrase 'Coded in China' wasn’t just catchy—it was accurate and deeply relevant.

The second session by Professor Gordon Lam on global supply chains gave me a new lens on international commerce. I realized how digital transformation, consumer behavior, and geopolitics now shape supply chains just as much as logistics and pricing. As someone from  a banking background, I was fascinated by the discussion on supply chain financing and   how financial institutions can become smarter and more integrated into the full value chain.

Unforgettable Company Visits

One of the best aspects of GNW 2025 was the opportunity to visit the headquarters of some of China’s most innovative companies:

- Alibaba Cloud gave us an insider look at how enterprise AI and cloud infrastructure are enabling smarter, faster businesses across industries.

- At IFLYTEK, we witnessed the incredible potential of voice recognition and AI-powered language tools, including real-time translation.

- Xiaomi impressed with its affordable innovation model—delivering cutting-edge smart home tech and wearables to mass markets.

- At Baidu Apollo Park, we got a glimpse of tomorrow’s mobility with self-driving cars and AI-enhanced transportation systems already operational.

- Yongyou Network Technology showcased how cloud-based ERP systems are helping businesses become more intelligent, data-driven, and scalable.

As someone studying in Beijing, it was rewarding to see the tech capital of the world in action—up close and firsthand.

My Team and Global Collaboration

A major highlight of the week was working with my brilliant team. We were a mix of professionals from Yale SOM, EGADE, HKUST, Hitotsubashi ICS, SNU, and RMBS. Despite our varied backgrounds, we found common ground quickly—through shared ambition, mutual respect, and the desire to learn. From brainstorming presentation strategies to exploring Beijing’s streets together, the team experience added heart and humanity to the academic rigor.

Receiving certificate during GNW 2025

Personal Takeaways

GNW 2025 has impacted me in profound ways. I now view China not just as a case study in my textbooks, but as a leader on the global stage—driving innovation, shaping digital ecosystems, and exporting new models of business. It made me rethink what leadership looks like in today’s interconnected world.

It also reaffirmed my belief that as future global leaders, we need to be agile, tech-savvy, and deeply collaborative. These aren’t buzzwords—they are survival skills in the digital economy.

For me personally, it was also a reminder of why I chose Renmin: to grow in a space that bridges East and West, tradition and innovation, thought and action.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Renmin Business School and the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM). GNW 2025 was flawlessly executed, rich in content, and full of warmth. As a Renmin student, it filled me with pride. As a participant, it left me inspired.

To those considering the GNW experience: it’s more than a week—it’s a turning point. One I’ll carry forward in my journey ahead.