“The purpose of the SSE MBA scholarship is to promote further education and raise the skill level among the next generation of leaders,” says Karin Wiström, Director SSE MBA at the Stockholm School of Economics.

The scholarship is awarded to candidates whose previous achievements and future potential indicate they will benefit optimally from the program. By strengthening their leadership and skills in responsible business and operational development, candidates will be able to benefit their company or organization and be a good ambassador for Sweden. Particular emphasis is placed on candidates’ potential to generate new business through entrepreneurship or intrapreneurship, in Sweden and internationally.

The 2023 SSE MBA scholarship goes to Rupa Thakrar Bagoon, Trade Commissioner and Country Manager at Business Sweden in South Africa, with the following motivation:

“Rupa is an entrepreneurial, positive leader, with a very strong track record of getting things done. With a communicative and coaching leadership style, great at forging strong relationships, Rupa is a role model and a highly appreciated colleague.

In her current position, as the Trade Commissioner and Country Manager at Business Sweden in South Africa, her role is to represent the interests of Swedish business enterprises in southern Africa, as well as to promote sustainable Swedish innovation and grow Business Sweden´s footprint and presence in the region.

Rupa has a unique and diverse background with extensive international experience from different roles in Business Sweden as well as at H&M. An MBA degree from SSE, in combination with her previous experience, will give Rupa a solid foundation for future success. 

With the new perspectives, insights and knowledge that Rupa will gain from the SSE MBA program, she has the potential to successfully take on more senior leadership roles in the future and make a strong impact. Rupa will also contribute greatly to the program and her peers. With her experience, background and potential, Rupa is a highly worthy recipient of the SSE MBA scholarship 2023."

“Sweden is home to some of the most innovative companies. They bring a unique perspective with their climate smart and sustainable technologies that are exported into the world. My passion is to foster growth and create business opportunities for Swedish companies and through my work at Business Sweden promote Swedish export in today’s complex market conditions. The SSE MBA will give me the opportunity to explore how I in every way can contribute to the export of these innovations and pave the way for a more sustainable future.” says Rupa Thakrar Bagoon

The jury has consisted of Louise Lundborg Hedberg, Advisor Sustainability; Jonas Jonsson, Managing Editor, Dagens Industri; Mattias Säker, Chairman Virtual Days and Co-founder Keystone Education Group; Helen Gothenby, Senior Advisor, Head of CFO Management Office Swedbank and SSE MBA alumna; and Karin Wiström, Director SSE MBA, Stockholm School of Economics.