Awula Quaye turned classroom learning and volunteerism into a meaningful career
Working at an unfulfilling private-sector job was the motivation Awula Quaye needed to take on a new challenge.
“I recognized a strong desire for personal and professional growth,” she says. “I felt a deep motivation to upskill because I knew I had untapped potential and was capable of delivering far greater value than my role at the time allowed.”
This realization led to a move to Canada from Ghana to take the Master of Business Administration program at Vancouver Island University.
“I knew the curriculum and environment would provide the exact foundation I needed to achieve my professional goals,” she says.
Awula graduated this past June and has already taken the next step in her career. She’s working as a Constituency Advisor for George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo–Lantzville and Parliamentary Secretary for Energy and Climate Solutions. The role moves her closer to her long-term goal of becoming a policy analyst.
She says the volunteer experience and network she built during her MBA played a key role in helping her land the role.
“VIU prepared me by emphasizing the importance of community engagement and volunteering within Canadian culture. Actively volunteering and networking allowed me to demonstrate my value.”
A highlight of Awula’s time at VIU was competing at the MBA Games as a first-year student. Her team won the regional competition and advanced to the national stage.
Another highlight was interning with the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce as a project consultant, where she combined what she learned in the classroom with real-world experience.
Completing her MBA is one of her proudest achievements.
“Accomplishing this showed me that I am capable of stretching far beyond my own expectations,” she says.
She is now focused on serving her community while continuing to support other students and newcomers.
“I am passionate about creating platforms that support international students, helping them gain exposure to impactful opportunities for personal and professional development,” she says. This includes creating a LinkedIn platform called Possibility Hub.
For current and future MBA grads, Awula’s advice is to be open-minded and willing to give back.
“Networking at events is important, but volunteering is what truly builds meaningful, lasting relationships,” she says. “Build a solid plan and find mentors to guide you. Treat every experience as a learning opportunity and be incredibly intentional with your actions. There is always a way to succeed.”
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