Delving into Conscious Capitalism at Nova SBE

Shobhit Jain, full-time MBA participant, reflects on his trip to Nova School of Business and Economics for the Conscious Capitalism International Elective Module.

The Full-time MBA at Warwick Business School (WBS) provides an opportunity for us to expand our horizons by opting for a week-long International Elective Module at a partner school. I embarked on a transformative journey to Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE) in Lisbon, driven by a passion for exploring the nexus of business and social impact.

My experience at Nova SBE

From the moment I stepped onto the Nova campus, I was enveloped in an atmosphere buzzing with intellectual curiosity and social responsibility. The cherry on top was the excellent location of the campus, right next to the Carcavelos beach! Throughout the week, we immersed ourselves in discussions, company visits, and case studies that challenged traditional notions of capitalism and explored alternative, more conscious approaches to business.

One of the key takeaways for me was the emphasis on creating sustainable business models that not only prioritise profit but also take into account the well-being of all stakeholders involved, including employees, customers, communities, and the environment. As a former marine engineer in the maritime industry, I had witnessed firsthand the environmental impact of unchecked economic growth. At Nova SBE, I learned that businesses can thrive while also prioritising environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

One memorable highlight from the course was our visit to a sustainable, no-waste restaurant kitchen on the very first day of our course. Here, we were treated not only to delicious, locally sourced meals but also to a first-hand demonstration of how businesses can minimise their environmental footprint while maximising flavor and innovation.

Throughout the course, we had the privilege of visiting several companies renowned for their commitment to sustainability and social impact. One such visit left an indelible impression on me - a company that not only embraced circular economy initiatives but also prioritised social inclusion. I was deeply moved by their dedication to employing people with disabilities in their company café, providing them with meaningful employment opportunities and fostering a workplace culture of diversity and inclusivity.

Enjoying Lisbon

Beyond the classroom, Lisbon beckoned with its irresistible blend of culture, cuisine, and charm. From savoring pastéis de nata (Portuguese Custard tarts) in cozy cafés to exploring the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, every moment in Lisbon was an adventure.

One highlight of our trip was spending an evening in Belém, where we sat along the shores of the River Tagus, sipping refreshing Pina Coladas and soaking in the beautiful scenic views of Lisbon. Another memorable experience was venturing to Boca do Inferno, a natural marvel just a short drive from Lisbon. Standing on the rugged cliffs, watching the sun dip below the horizon, we were treated to a spectacle of color and beauty.

Before embarking on your own Lisbon adventure, consider packing comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city's charming neighborhoods (especially the uphill climbs in Barrio Alto), sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, light sunscreen and, most importantly, an open mind ready to embrace new experiences and perspectivesTop of Form