The DeGroote MBA has empowered me to think strategically and tackle real-world healthcare challenges.
Imran Ghaznawi is an Occupational Therapist and MBA candidate at DeGroote School of Business, with over five years of experience across both public and private healthcare sectors. He is passionate about blending healthcare and business to develop evidence-based solutions that address complex global healthcare challenges.
Throughout his career, Imran worked across diverse settings, including military and veteran services, correctional facilities, first responder rehabilitation, and medical-legal consulting. His expertise spans clinical care, interdisciplinary team management, and healthcare project leadership.
Imran is particularly focused on healthcare consulting and international initiatives, with the goal of driving meaningful, sustainable improvements in healthcare systems worldwide. Whether working directly with patients or advising on strategic healthcare solutions, his mission is to create impactful change that enhances health outcomes and operational efficiency.
What attracted you to the BLPT MBA Program at DeGroote?
I was drawn to the BLPT MBA program at DeGroote because of its strong focus on healthcare management, which aligns perfectly with my long-term goal of transitioning into healthcare leadership roles.
What really stood out to me was how practical and relevant the program is. I like that it emphasizes applying business concepts to real-world settings—something I can connect to, given my background managing clinics and working on strategic healthcare projects. I was also attracted to the part-time format, which allows me to continue working full-time while studying. This flexibility is crucial, as it lets me immediately apply what I learn to my current work, making the experience much more meaningful.
Overall, the combination of healthcare focus, practical learning, and the ability to balance work, life, and school made DeGroote the perfect fit for me.
What has been the highlight of your DeGroote experience?
The highlight of my DeGroote experience has been collaborating on group projects that tackle real-world, practical problems—issues that closely mirror the challenges we will face as future leaders. DeGroote’s strong emphasis on applying business concepts to real-world scenarios has significantly enhanced my ability to think strategically and develop creative solutions. It has pushed me to step outside my usual ways of thinking and approach challenges from new angles.
I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed working with classmates from diverse professional backgrounds. Their varied perspectives have enriched the learning process, offering new insights that I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. These collaborations have not only sharpened my problem-solving skills but have also shown me the value of teamwork in achieving innovative solutions.
What surprised you about your experience at DeGroote?
What surprised me the most about my experience at DeGroote was the program’s culture. There is an unspoken expectation among students to help and support each other, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s networking with alumni or collaborating with peers from other programs, the spirit of collaboration is vibrant and truly sets the program apart.
I was also impressed by the diversity of the faculty. DeGroote brings together professors with experience across various industries and geographies, which enriches the learning experience. This global perspective ensures that we explore not only Canadian business practices but also gain insights into international markets. The combination of a collaborative student culture and a globally minded curriculum has been both unexpected and incredibly valuable.
How has this program impacted your career?
This program has elevated my career in many ways. While I’m currently working in the federal government, I’ve noticed an increase in recruitment interest for leadership roles from organizations around the world. The program has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone, apply my skills on a global scale, and seriously consider international career opportunities.
It has also encouraged me to take on more responsibilities in my current role. I’ve actively pursued leadership projects, taken the initiative on new tasks, and contributed to strategic decision-making processes.
What advice do you have for someone looking to pursue their MBA while continuing to work full-time?
Pursuing an MBA while working full-time is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right strategies, it becomes an achievable and rewarding experience. The program is designed to support a healthy balance between professional, academic, and personal commitments. One thing I found helpful is knowing that everyone in the program is facing similar challenges, whether they have children or not. Understanding that you’re not alone can be reassuring.
My biggest piece of advice is to prioritize self-care. It’s easy to get caught up in the workload, but taking care of yourself will keep you focused and productive in the long run. Be proactive in managing your time—planning ahead and staying organized will help you keep up with schoolwork without feeling overwhelmed. Take advantage of the support systems available to you, including your classmates and professors. The faculty is incredibly responsive to students’ needs, and reaching out early can make a significant difference.
