ESMT Berlin is a strong and inspiring institution, which can rightfully be an example of both high academic professionalism and the manifestation of a corporate culture that embodies high ethical standards.

While much has already been said about the school’s diverse programs, wonderful professors, goal-oriented students, today I would like to share another perspective–one that focuses on empathy in corporate culture, manifested in strong leadership.

I believe that these are the qualities that help to keep strong wings in extremely difficult circumstances for any team member.

Empathy is a quality that is often overlooked in the context of leadership, although it is extremely important. As Oprah Winfrey said:

“Leadership is about empathy. It is about having the ability to relate and connect with people for the purpose of inspiring and empowering their lives.”

Former U.S. President Barack Obama also highlighted its importance by stating, “The empathy deficit is a more pressing issue than the federal deficit.”

Empathy is one of the fundamental qualities that distinguish a great leader from an effective manager. it helps leaders understand the needs, desires, and challenges of others. It builds trust, improves communication, stimulates the adoption of important volitional decisions, and strengthens the sense of belonging in the environment that exhibits it.

And I experienced all of this during 2 years of studying at ESMT. As a Ukrainian student, my path of study have been deeply affected by the war in Ukraine, which continues to disrupt every aspect of life. Living in Kyiv, I face incredible challenges and living conditions under sirens, sleepless nights, missile and drone attacks, as well as long periods – sometimes 16 to 18 hours  – without electricity and water.

However, through it all, I have felt a strong supporting elbow and a warm palm next to a real partner in everything–ESMT. This fills me up and strengthens by resolve to keep going.

In 2022, ESMT awarded grants to 10 outstanding Ukrainian businesswomen to pursue our education in the midst of adversity. Now we are all fighting together for a new, progressive quality of knowledge, passing our military tests in parallel.

In the winter of 2023, Ukraine experienced a blackout after massive shelling. During that time, I was in the middle of a crucial period of study–listening to online lectures, submitting projects, and recording video reflections on complex professional topics. There was almost no strength, positive emotions and opportunities for study. But ESMT provided active support and care – from professors to fellow students, the entire community rallied around us, ensuring we could continue our education.

Now, as I prepare for my Final Project and my degree, the war rages on. Electricity and internet access in Ukraine remain unstable, businesses are powered by generators, and strict discipline is the only way for me to survive and stay focused on the last part of my study journey. Balancing work, study, family, and other interests has been nearly impossible at times. Yet, I am happy to complete my studies and find the strength in myself again and again.

Of course, there have been no exceptions to the academic requirements for me. But I have found a real partner and friend, ESMT, next to me, which has responded extremely quickly to every new challenge, offering me optimal solutions, and providing moral support.

I would like to specifically acknowledge the most important role of the Program Management Office for their perfect coordination of all issues, actions and events between the school and students from 40 countries around the world.

In my moments of despair, hearing from ESMT valuable words like "We are always happy to help" and "We would like to reassure you that we are all here to support you" and receiving constructive suggestions for solving any challenges in my educational journey has made all the difference.

This level of responsibility and sincere support is a real example of inspiring leadership and care for everyone. Being in such an environment, fresh forces always appear to move forward. This experience has motivated me to take strong strides in my life and continue contributing to the future of Ukraine, where strong-spirited and courageous people live and fight for a brighter horizon.

Thank you, dear ESMT Berlin, for not only equipping us with knowledge, but also exemplifying the kind of leadership that is driven by empathy and values for future graduates, who will go forth to inspire and influence their teams, organization and, perhaps, even countries.

If you're interested in reading about the start of my journey at ESMT, you can find my earlier article on the Global Online MBA and its impact on women in business here.

I’d love to connect with you on LinkedIn—feel free to reach out if you’d like to hear more about my experiences or share your own journey!