A global immersion in Cape Town: One year later

A year ago, Alisha Martin found herself alongside a group of undergraduate students in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of a global experience that continues to pay dividends. Now an Executive MBA student at Fisher, Alisha reflects on how the trip continues to impact her professional growth:

"Last year, I had the honor of documenting a transformative global immersion experience in Cape Town, South Africa, for Mahogany Columbus, a local lifestyle magazine rooted in culture, community and storytelling. At the time, I captured what we did. Now, a year later, I find myself reflecting on what it meant; and what it continues to mean.

This spring marks one year since I joined 13 undergraduate students from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business in Cape Town, serving in the capacity of a graduate student mentor. Spearheaded by Associate Dean Cynthia Turner, the program was designed to give students access to global learning, community impact and entrepreneurship — opportunities that have the power to change lives.

The cohort partnered with Action Change, a local nonprofit in Cape Town, and engaged in one of three service projects: clean water, women’s empowerment, and education. I worked alongside the women’s empowerment group, where we were introduced to Dorcas, a local seamstress who teaches sewing classes at Bongelethu Primary School and helps produce school uniforms for students. Our mission was to help her turn her passion and talent into a sustainable business.

Using Shwe Shwe, a vibrant, traditional South African fabric, the students helped Dorcas develop a product line featuring tote bags, laptop sleeves and decorative pillows. We named the brand Shwe Fab; a nod to both the fabric and the fabulous women it aims to empower. The students then pitched the brand to local retailers and boutique shops in Cape Town, laying the foundation for what we hope will become a thriving enterprise. Proceeds from Shwe Fab will not only support Dorcas’s efforts at the school but also help train other women with marketable skills, creating a ripple effect of empowerment across the community.

Of course, this was just one of the many projects undertaken. Other students worked to improve clean water systems and educational support, each group leaving a tangible impact behind. Throughout the two weeks, our days were filled with service, learning and strategizing as we engaged with local leaders, educators and families.

What stands out to me now, more than anything, is the students.

At the time, I was impressed. Looking back, I’m in awe. The level of thought, preparation and execution they brought to this experience was next level. They didn’t just complete the work, they took ownership of it. When it came time to present their projects to local stakeholders, they did so with clarity and confidence. It was one of those moments where you realize you’re witnessing something bigger than a class or a trip; you’re watching future leaders step into who they are.

This trip also served as a powerful educational journey into the soul of South Africa. A country rich in culture, beauty and resilience. South Africa also bears the scars of colonization and apartheid; ethnic histories that echo many of the students who attended this trip.

We didn’t just see Cape Town; we connected with it. We didn’t just study business; we applied it in real time, using our education to collaborate with those whose access to resources has been limited by generations of injustice. And when our students presented their final project outcomes, many in the audience were moved to tears. A year later, that moment still sits with me.

This experience was made possible by Jesse Tyson, a proud Fisher alumnus, whose investment in this program created access for students to engage in this level of global learning and impact. Opportunities like this happen because of those who understand the value of exposure and choose to make it possible for others.

I’m still grateful to have been part of this experience. Thank you to Donya Gibson for managing the countless logistics that made this trip seamless, and to Dr. Turner and Fisher faculty member Patrick Kielty for their leadership and mentorship throughout. To witness our Buckeyes rise to the occasion and plant seeds that will grow long after we’ve returned to Ohio was something I’ll never forget.

A year later, I can say this clearly: this experience was just as fulfilling as it was meaningful. And its impact is still unfolding."

― Photos and story courtesy of Alisha Martin and Mahogany Columbus