Author: Camila Yanez Paz, University of Birmingham
My name is Camila Yanez Paz, I am a 24-year-old woman from Ecuador. Growing up in Ecuador, a country deeply connected to nature and rich in ancestral traditions, I developed a passion for understanding how organisations can balance environmental sustainability, cultural respect and social wellbeing, building bridges between the legacy of our traditions and the opportunities of the modern business world. It was this passion that drove me to apply for a Master’s degree and to choose the University of Birmingham to continue my academic education. Not only is it one of the best institutions in the world, ranked in the top 80 and a member of the prestigious Russell Group, but it also shares my long-term vision where business not only generates profit, but also has a positive impact on society and the environment. The opportunity to study at a university with these values of ambition, innovation, collaboration, accountability and openness, in an academic environment of excellence, was a natural decision.
The Dean’s Responsible Business Scholarship was a key step on this path. My motivation for applying to this scholarship was born out of a strong belief that business development must integrate sustainability, highlighting the essential link between business, environment, and society. Likewise, it was also driven by the resilience my mother instilled in me, the potential I saw in myself, the confidence in my skills and abilities, and the recognition of the openness the University of Birmingham provides by offering an inclusive scholarship for all, without segregation by race, culture or beliefs. I come from Ecuador, a country with a unique biodiversity and a tireless entrepreneurial spirit. However, it also faces great challenges in terms of sustainability and responsible development. The MSc in Sustainable Innovation and Entrepreneurship represents for me the opportunity to acquire key skills and knowledge that will allow me to pursue my career plan in a country full of potential.
This scholarship and recognition not only benefit me personally and professionally by providing me with new knowledge and experience, but will also have a significant impact on my community. I plan to apply what I have learned to strengthen my small business, Reserva Mateagui, a family start-up aimed to produce handcrafted sweet wines, which currently supports indigenous women’s communities in the province of Bolivar. Through generating employment, marketing processed products and maintaining artisanal and organic crops. I seek to contribute to the diversification of manufactured products in Ecuador, creating sustainable opportunities for these communities.
The Responsible Business Scholarship has transformed my view on business and leadership. I now understand the importance of integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into every project, using technical tools such as project management frameworks, economic innovation theories, business model canvas and value proposition to design effective strategies that aligns with economy, people and planet. Networking with professionals and academics from different parts of the world has allowed me to expand my horizons and better understand global challenges. In addition, I have strengthened my leadership, especially in terms of women’s visibility in sustainability and responsible business. My goal is to be a reference that inspires other women to lead projects that generate a positive impact on their communities.
I firmly believe that change starts from individual principles and values. This MSc in Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation has strengthened my commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment in the business sector. I will use my knowledge of sustainable innovation and entrepreneurship to create solutions that not only benefit businesses, but also society at large. I seek to make Ecuadorian women visible and empower them by being living proof that we can go far and chase our dreams without limits. I want to show the world that Ecuadorians have a representation around the world, that every dream is valid, and that we hold the power to become the best versions of ourselves. Through this journey, I hope to inspire others to explore new ways of helping promote value retention strategies, while reminding every woman that her voice matters, her dreams are worthy, and her potential is limitless.
I am particularly interested in promoting projects in sectors that have great potential for transformation. Through my artisanal wine start-up, I aim to contribute to decent work and economic growth, align with sustainable practices, and reduce inequalities, creating opportunities within my community. At the same time, my dedication to solving problems continues through my dissertation, where I will explore fog harvesting as an innovative solution to clean water scarcity. By blending hands-on entrepreneurship with research-driven insights, I strive to make a meaningful impact across different areas of need.
What I enjoy most about the MSc in Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation is the opportunity to connect with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, broadening my global perspective. The University of Birmingham’s practical approach allows me to apply theory to real-world problem-solving, while initiatives like the Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA) highlight the University’s genuine commitment to responsible business, promoting sustainability both on campus and within the wider business community. The programme’s multidisciplinary approach has also deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities in global business. This academic journey has built on my previous experience in the mining sector, where I witnessed first-hand the complex sustainability challenges industries face. It made me realize how essential sustainable practices are—not just in corporations but in every organization and household. The skills I’ve developed at university have enabled me to critically analyse these issues and approach them with a solutions-driven mindset, empowering me to contribute meaningfully to addressing global sustainability challenges. The Birmingham Business School has a clear focus on developing ethical and responsible leaders, something I deeply value both personally and professionally. Knowing that I am in an environment that fosters critical thinking, sustainable innovation and value creation beyond the bottom line reinforces my purpose and motivates me to move forward. This approach not only enhances my technical and strategic skills, but also strengthens my commitment to positive social and environmental impact.
To any student considering studying at the University of Birmingham, I would say don’t hesitate. Seize the opportunity, highlight your strengths and be confident in yourself. Applying to programmes at this level takes time and dedication, but the effort is worth it. This journey will not only transform your career, but also your life. In addition, the University of Birmingham provides extracurricular initiatives, events, courses, academic support, and more, offering valuable opportunities to expand your network and enrich your academic and personal experience.
This experience is a transformative journey of growth and learning that has not only strengthened my passion for responsible business and sustainability, but also my commitment to women’s empowerment, cultural diversity and respect for the environment. Learning from new techniques and professionals in the UK has allowed me to gain valuable experiences, knowledge and skills that transcend academia. I hope to continue to apply all that I have learned to make a positive impact in my community, fostering women’s leadership, promoting respect for our cultural roots and contributing to the sustainable and conscious development that our planet needs.
