NEWS

Fridah Mbwaya ’22 Named Schwarzman Scholar

Fridah

Join us in congratulating Fridah Mbwaya, Robertson Class of 2022 on being named a Schwarzman Scholar. Fridah joins 150 Scholars, representing 38 countries and 105 universities from around the world, in the 10th cohort of the Schwarzman. As a scholar she will receive the opportunity to attend a one-year, fully-funded master’s degree program in global affairs at Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

We asked Fridah to share what this honor means to her and how being a Robertson has impacted her leadership journey.

Q: What are some of the practices that you focus on as a leader – what ways do you try to show up for the communities you’re a part of and hope to serve?
Fridah: As a leader, I prioritize empathy, collaboration, and sustainability. My leadership style revolves around actively listening to the communities I serve and empowering others to take ownership of solutions. Whether co-leading the Economic Development pillar at Bain to enhance local economic opportunities or founding Maisha Abroad to connect African students globally, I strive to foster inclusive environments where everyone feels valued. I believe impactful leadership comes from showing up authentically, building trust, and ensuring that the voices of others are not just heard but amplified.

Q: The Schwarzman is focused on the geopolitical landscape and deepening the world’s understanding of China and global trends – what draws you to this type of work, and what excites you about being a Schwarzman Scholar?
Fridah: Living in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Chapel Hill/Durham, and now Atlanta has profoundly shaped my understanding of what it means to live a fulfilling life deeply rooted in community. Each place has offered unique perspectives and opportunities to connect with people, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose that I could not have imagined. These experiences have also exposed me to the complexity of global systems and the importance of cross-cultural collaboration. The opportunity to deepen my understanding of China’s geopolitical landscape is particularly exciting as it allows me to engage with one of the most dynamic economies and societies shaping the world today. The Schwarzman program offers an unparalleled platform to connect with diverse, future-oriented leaders and explore cross-cultural perspectives, aligning perfectly with my vision of creating scalable, cross-border solutions to issues like educational inequity and economic disparity.

Q: What impact do you hope to have as a leader in these fields?
I hope to create scalable, sustainable solutions that empower underserved communities through education, digital access, and leadership development. Whether it’s expanding technological access for students in Kenya by providing computers or fostering a global community of connections through Maisha Abroad, my vision is anchored in driving systemic change that uplifts communities and addresses systemic inequities, starting with the ones I have been a part of and deeply connected to. By leveraging cross-cultural insights and innovative thinking from the Schwarzman program, I aim to design policies and initiatives that bridge divides, empower communities, and contribute to equitable global growth.

Q: As Robertsons, we think a lot about big and small acts of leadership, what are the small acts of leadership that drive you forward?
Small acts of leadership—like mentoring interns, organizing inclusive team events, or amplifying the voices of others—reflect my belief that leadership is deeply rooted in community. Growing up, my close-knit support system helped me thrive through small but meaningful gestures—whether it was guidance during transitions, help with applications, or a listening ear when I felt homesick. These experiences have shaped my understanding that large-scale impact often begins with the people closest to you. They inspire me to lead by creating environments of trust, support, and collaboration where others feel empowered to thrive and succeed.

Q: How has being a Robertson impacted your leadership journey, and what do you hope to draw on from your Robertson experiences now as a Schwarzman?
The Robertson program instilled in me a deep commitment to service, collaboration, and transformative leadership. The opportunity to study at both UNC and Duke allowed me to engage with diverse perspectives, develop critical problem-solving skills, and strengthen my dedication to meaningful community impact. The program not only shaped my approach to leadership but also helped me build a community of friends who are driven, ambitious, and committed to creating positive change. They remind me that leadership is never a solo journey—it’s about leaning on and learning from others. As a Schwarzman Scholar, I aim to build on these experiences by fostering cross-cultural understanding, designing innovative solutions to global challenges, and continuing to lead with empathy and purpose. The program’s emphasis on bridging divides and driving positive change perfectly aligns with the values I developed as a Robertson Scholar.

Fridah is the fourth Robertson to become a Schwarzman Scholar, joining Robertson alumni Amy Kramer ’19, Samuel Zahn ’22, and Jessica Edelson ’22 in this global community.