From classroom to continents: How the MGB program shaped Safi Morisho’s global path

By Jennifer Ivanov

When Safi Morisho, Master of Global Business (MGB) graduate 2026, set out to study international business, the world opened up in ways she never expected, broadening her perspective and deepening her understanding of herself.

The year long program took her across three continents from Victoria to Peru and Austria, where coursework blended with culture, people, and new languages. She didn’t just observe global business; she experienced it firsthand.

Morisho jumped straight into the program after completing her BCom at Gustavson. She expected academic growth but discovered something more transformative, a redefined sense of her place in an increasingly interconnected world and the impact she hopes to make within it.

What made you choose the MGB program?

It was really a combination of things. As I was approaching the end of my BCom, I found myself thinking about what would come next. I knew I wasn’t quite ready to be finished with school. My post-secondary experience was a bit different than most, having completed the IB program in high school, I entered university with enough credits to skip the first year of the BCom program.

When I learned about the MGB program, it immediately stood out. It offered a chance to further myself academically, while also allowing me to grow as a person—through travel and hands-on business experiences, two things I love. The idea of working internationally, gaining real-world experience, along with the opportunity to learn Spanish was incredibly exciting. I remember thinking, “Yes—I’m in.”

What was your Path through the MGB program?

I have been incredibly lucky during my time at UVic to have experienced so much travel through my studies. The MGB program began in Victoria, then took us to Linz, Austria. While in Europe, I was able to also visit family in Paris, which was a special highlight. From there, we travelled to Lima Peru, where we also visited Arequipa. After that, I returned to Victoria to complete my internship. Each place was so special, and I feel grateful to have experienced them all. I completed my studies in December and will attend convocation in June.

What impact have these diverse learning opportunities had on you?

I’ve learned so much about myself. The word resilient is used a lot but I’ve learned so much about how I react in different situations. Having to move away from home and adapt to a completely different culture, learn different currencies, languages­­­­—it’s made the type A person in me a lot calmer. Sometimes things don’t go the way you expect, and you just have to go with it.

Academically, I would say it’s made me hungry for knowledge. I know I want to continue learning and pursue other programs in the future. I’m more confident and open to new opportunities. I didn’t know where this program would take me, but I’m back in Victoria working for National Defence and I’m really enjoying it. The learning opportunities and work experience through Gustavson have brought me here and I’m thankful for those experiences.

How did the program help shape your view of business around the world?

It shaped my view in so many ways. First, understanding that teamwork is vital to getting projects done. Secondly, international trade is tough. I admire those who make it happen. When a deal is done, the public only see the final agreement, sometimes it’s holding on by a thread.

I’ve also learned that you really need empathy to make business decisions. You can't take anything for granted, it’s best to listen and learn from others, and that goes a long way in international business.

I also realized the importance of connecting with people through a shared mutual love of culture and languages. I think when people can truly understand each other, there’s connection in that communication. I discovered I loved this part of my business study the most. The importance of connection was reinforced throughout the MGB program, and I approached every business decision using this Gustavson lens.

Was there a course or instructor that had a positive impact on you?

Yes, but I can’t narrow it down to just one! I’d have to say International Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Professor Adel Guitouni was really cool. He opened our eyes to how things work and really challenged us. I’d have to also include a class I took in negotiations, with Ignace Ng, which made an impact on me. We had to compete against friends for resources, so we were challenged with managing those relationships while also getting the job done.

Given recent global developments, are there still relevant career paths for students in the MGB program?

Yes! Because if we're going to continue to want bananas and oranges at Walmart and Thrifty’s we need international business and trade to keep happening. We're not growing those here.

I know employers want us. Our experiences may not be reflected on a job board, but when we explain to a potential employer what we’ve learned and what we’re capable of doing, they’re interested. It’s not just about procurement and logistics; it’s about presentation and communication – people skills which you learn so much of in the program. 

Above all, it’s instilled a lasting commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.

What are your plans after graduation?

I was able to secure an internship at the end of my MGB with the federal government, at CFB Esquimalt and I would say that my plans right now are to remain in public service. I was able to land another opportunity and stay on with National Defence, this time in a human resources outreach role. It’s a great environment and I’m learning a lot. One day, I’d love to continue my studies by pursuing a second master’s degree.

What makes the MGB program so special?

The people. I learned from some incredible professors and made some great friends.

But more specifically, I’d say we learned so much about how to deal with conflict and failure. There were so many scenarios in our classes where we learned how to handle disagreements and recognize our own triggers.

We were also given the opportunity to test new ideas in a safe space. If we fail or disagree, it's okay because we're supposed to and we have a support system to rely on.

These experiences will help me in the business world, and I know one day it’s going to also make me a better manager because I’ve learned ultimately, it’s about communication and teamwork.

Above all, it’s instilled a lasting commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.