Luisa Maier had set up five firms by the age of 24 in the high octane events sector, but she wanted to build her knowledge and network
Luisa Maier had founded five different start-ups in South Africa by the age of 24.The German-born, South Africa-bred entrepreneur talks to us about why she placed her latest start-up on ice and enrolled on an MBA at the European School of Management and Technology, Berlin.
Luisa, now 26 will graduate in from ESMT in December 2012. She started her first two companies, Jack & Jill Marketing Events and Jack & Jill Distributions, when she was in her second year of studying for a B.Com in Marketing Management at the University of Johannesburg.
Jack & Jill Events provided staffing at events while Jack & Jill Distributions distributed beverages and other consumables at events. They typically managed an average of 300 functions per month across Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town in South Africa.
Luisa found that South Africa as a nation is: “Young-spirited, creative, open-hearted and entrepreneurial” and she felt encouraged to work hard at implementing her business ideas even when tough situations such as going through a business partner “divorce” surfaced.
She started La Lash Entertainment and La Lash Logistics in 2009 to provide hostessing and entertainment services as well as event-coordination services, and sourced and trained staff to complement her clients brand at events.
La Lash staffed media and corporate events for the likes of Estee Lauder, Bell Dewar, Fashion TV, Volkswagen, the Holland-Belgium Fifa 2018 and 2022 World Cup Bids, the South African rugby team's BloodBrothers Charity and managed promotional campaigns for Patron Tequila RSA and Playboy Energy RSA.Luisa is taken by the entertainment industry, especially the nightlife business which she sees as an important part of culture: “It has potential for so much expression and combines so many passions of humankind such as meeting people, music, food & drink”, she says.
Being intensively involved in start-ups meant that Luisa got to experience all sides of business from operations to corporate relations to human resources to finance. However, she sensed that there was more to entrepreneurship so she she left the sun of South Africa to spend a year on the ESMT Berlin MBA.
“I want to gain more knowledge in business management and leadership and to build an amazing network of people from all over the world” she says.
“Our minds are full of business opportunities to unfold. I'm hoping that at least one or two of the ones I have buzzing in my head right now can be developed with my MBA colleagues and perhaps even brought to life after graduation”, says Luisa.
During school, Luisa used to dream of a creative station - a place she called the “Sugar Shack” - that was a space for people to come together and let their creativity flow. A work space for designers, musician, entrepreneurs and other creative souls, combined with a display area and shop, teaching lab and recording station, coffee shop and cocktail bar.
It's an idea that Luisa and her MBA colleagues might work on this year - watch this space!
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Student Reviews
Well qualified professors and great connectons with the industry
Well structured programs, great facilities and very good career development team. The alumni relations with the school are great and well maintained and fostered. Overall a great school right in the middle of Berlin.
Memorable college life
The European School of Management and Technology creates a remarkable setting where students can excel. I admire this school for its dynamic community, which is filled with enthusiasm, pride, and countless opportunities. The campus, with its rich history and traditions, is truly beautiful, and the spirited atmosphere is invigorating. The social life and events on campus are fantastic, allowing for friendship and connections among students. Although the academics can be tough, they are incredibly beneficial and worthwhile. The encouraging faculty and involved student body foster meaningful connections and lasting friendships.
Enjoy every moment
The European School of Management and Technology has completely exceeded my expectations. I was blown away by the quality of education here and how much I have learned in such a short amount of time. Every class is made incredibly exciting by the passionate and knowledgeable professors who go above and beyond to ensure that we are fully engaged and learning. I never thought I would enjoy studying so much, but thanks to this school, I am constantly motivated and eager to learn more. The hands-on approach to learning and the challenging yet supportive environment have truly made my educational experience here far better than I could have ever imagined.
Bringing excitement to the class
Studying at the European School of Management and Technology has exceeded all my expectations. I thought I was just signing up for a solid business education, but what I got was so much more. Every class is dynamic, with professors who are not just academics but actual leaders in their fields, bringing real-world case studies and fresh insights into every discussion. They make even complex topics exciting and easy to understand by linking theory to what’s happening right now in the global business world. The interactive approach, combined with a diverse group of classmates, makes every class feel like a new challenge and opportunity. I never imagined learning could be this engaging and inspiring.
Impressed by quality
ESMT Berlin has been a revelation! I was drawn to its top-tier rankings and location in Germany's vibrant capital, but the experience has shattered my expectations. The education here is exceptionally practical, with professors who are renowned experts and industry veterans. Each class is a high-energy, interactive session that tackles real-world challenges, from strategic innovation to digital transformation. I'm constantly impressed by the diversity of perspectives and expertise among my classmates, who hail from over 50 countries. ESMT's focus on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility resonates deeply with me.
Better education
I cannot believe how amazing my experience at the European School of Management and Technology is! I was initially hesitant about going to a business school, but ESMT has exceeded all my expectations. The professors here are not just knowledgeable, but they are passionate about their subjects and make every class exciting and engaging. The education I am receiving here is far better than what I thought it would be, and I am constantly challenged and motivated to learn more. I am so grateful to be a part of such a prestigious and dynamic institution. ESMT truly lives up to its reputation as one of the top business schools in Europe.
Exceptional experience with supportive professors
My time here's has been truly exceptional. The professors are supportive and welcoming, creating an ideal learning environment. Various campus activities cater to diverse interests, and hands-on experiences prepare students for their future careers. One area for improvement is the dining options, but overall, I've thoroughly enjoyed my experience.
