I am thrilled to announce that I have successfully earned my Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from the Swiss School of Business and Management, Geneva, with the highest academic distinction – Summa Cum Laude. This honor is a recognition of my dedication and the expertise demonstrated in my research, and it is an achievement that I am incredibly proud of – It was a lot of work for more than 4 years.
Summa Cum Laude, meaning “with highest honor,” is a distinction awarded to candidates who excel exceptionally in their academic pursuits. It represents not only a level of excellence but a commitment to impactful, high-quality research. Receiving this distinction is a testament to the value and rigor of my work, as well as my passion for advancing knowledge in my field.
Presenting My Research in Seoul, South Korea
I had the privilege of presenting my thesis at the RC3 workshop in Seoul, South Korea, among researchers dedicated to the Red Cross Red Crescent (RCRC) movement. This gathering allowed me to share insights, engage with other experts, and contribute to the collective research advancing the mission of the RCRC movement worldwide.
Adding “Dr.” to My Name – A Professional Marker
Achieving this doctorate also grants me the title of “Dr.,” a meaningful addition for my professional endeavors and resume. However, I see this title as a formality rather than a personal identifier; I’m more focused on building genuine connections and fostering collaboration. For me, it’s important that “Dr.” doesn’t become a barrier: it’s simply a marker of my commitment to lifelong learning and a tool for professional interactions when relevant.
Drawing Inspiration from Red Cross Red Crescent Movement
My thesis, “International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Global Onboarding,” dives into the critical role onboarding plays within the IFRC, the world’s largest humanitarian organization. I explore the historical context and foundational values of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – principles like humanity, impartiality, and unity, inspired by the visionary Henry Dunant.
Combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods, I engaged with 313 participants who generously shared their insights, helping shape a modern global onboarding framework. My findings emphasize the importance of a guided onboarding team, supported by a buddy system, to strengthen alignment with the movement’s mission.
The global onboarding programme was developed using Agile project management techniques (people and interactions over processes and tools), built with a Human Centred Design (a practice where we focus on people and their context). We seek to understand and solve the right problems, the root problems, considering that everything is a complex system with interconnected parts. The programme was presented using a digital platform within the Communication and Collaboration (C2) programme to increase engagement and efficiency on a global scale – a SharePoint communications site.
The IFRC Global Onboarding Program was built from the ground up with a deep understanding of the needs of both individuals and the organization. Each component, from the IFRC Buddy system to the comprehensive Onboarding Portal, was crafted with care and intentionality. By integrating supportive resources like manuals, e-guides, and dedicated communication strategies, this program aims to provide a warm, structured welcome for every newcomer. Rooted in empathy and a commitment to excellence, every detail reflects the values and mission of the IFRC, creating a foundation where new team members feel supported and connected right from the start.
My goal is to continue expanding the impact of my work, driving meaningful change within the IFRC and the broader humanitarian community. With this milestone, I look forward to the journey ahead, carrying forward the values of humanity, impartiality, and unity.
This journey has been rewarding, both in terms of the skills I’ve gained and the experiences I’ve enjoyed. Through extensive research and hands-on practice, I’ve developed valuable competencies in areas like project management, site creation, visual design, learning and development, stakeholder engagement, etc. Skills that led to my current role in the Digital Transformation Department. Beyond the learning, I genuinely enjoyed meeting new people and immersing myself in the process of completing this thesis.
Of course, it wasn’t easy. I can count on one hand the Sundays I had free in 2023 and 2024! Balancing my work as a Clinical Psychologist, my consultancy with IFRC and other companies, and this doctorate left little time for myself. But every sacrifice was worth it. Holding this degree in my hands today fills me with immense pride and satisfaction. Now I am a doctor!!!