Kyellu Tsamdu

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it?
I chose to study Global Strategy and Innovation Management because I was curious about how strategy and innovation work hand in hand. I wanted to understand not just how to plan for the future, but also how to manage new ideas in a way that makes them sustainable and impactful.

That mix feels especially important today, when change happens so fast. Strategy provides direction, but innovation makes it possible to adapt and grow. Learning how to balance the two has been valuable in how I think and work.

What did you enjoy the most about your course – what were your course highlights? For example, the facilities, staff, peers, course content etc.
I enjoyed so many things about my course. The course content was rich and stimulating, but what made it truly memorable was the mix of people I was surrounded by. Everyone came in with different contexts from their experiences – different countries, industries, and ways of looking at problems. That diversity made every conversation so layered, and it constantly challenged me to step outside my own perspective.

The staff were also a big highlight. They brought not just deep expertise but also a real openness and willingness to engage with us as individuals. Their support and encouragement created an environment where it felt safe to ask questions, push ideas further, and connect the theory to real-world practice.

What did you enjoy most about your life as a student at the University of Leeds? Did you get involved in any activities outside of your studies that had an impact on your experience here, or your personal development?What I enjoyed most about life as a student at Leeds was the balance between study and the wider experience. I spent a lot of time in the libraries, which became a kind of second home – spaces that were not just for studying but for focus, reflection, and even inspiration. Beyond that, the leisure spaces across campus really added to the experience; they gave me room to relax, recharge, and connect with people outside of the classroom. That mix of academic and social spaces made the university feel like a community.

One thing I do look back on with some regret is not making the most of the career development resources early enough. At the time, I didn’t fully realise just how many resources and opportunities were available to support my growth beyond the course. Even so, the overall environment at Leeds gave me so much personally and academically, and those experiences continue to shape me today.

How did you find adjusting to living and studying in the UK? Did the university offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice?
Adjusting to living and studying in the UK wasn’t easy at first. Somewhere between the weather, new environment, and academic commitments, it took me a while to adjust. What made a real difference was the support I received from my programme director, Dr Sanaz Sigaroudi, who was always helpful and encouraging. She helped me navigate so many things throughout my programme.

If I had any advice, it would be to reach out early - whether to staff, student services, or even your peers. From mental health to academic concerns, there's always someone available to offer support if you reach out. There’s no need to carry everything by yourself, and the support systems really are there to help you make the most of your time at Leeds.

What professional skills and experience did you gain during your time at Leeds University Business School? What support did you get to help to develop these skills, and with your overall career and employability?
During my time at Leeds University Business School, I gained a range of professional skills that I still draw on today. The course strengthened my ability to think strategically, manage complex projects, and work effectively across cultures and perspectives. Just as importantly, it sharpened my communication and critical thinking – skills that have been invaluable in navigating real-world challenges.

The support I received along the way was also key. My lecturers and programme director encouraged us to apply what we were learning to practical scenarios, which helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. Even though I came to Leeds with professional experience, the programme gave me fresh perspectives and new tools that have continued to enrich and expand my career.

How did your time at Leeds prepare you for the future?
My time at Leeds prepared me for the future by teaching me how to combine clear strategy with flexibility and openness to change. The course gave me the confidence to approach complex challenges with a structured mindset, while also reminding me that innovation and creativity are just as important as planning.

Beyond the classroom, the diverse mix of people and perspectives I encountered really shaped the way I think and work today. It taught me how to listen, adapt, and find value in different viewpoints – skills that are essential in any global context. Looking back, Leeds didn’t just add to what I already knew; it expanded how I see problems and opportunities, and that continues to influence the way I move forward in my career and personal growth.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?Since leaving the Business School, my career has continued to grow in the music industry, where I’ve been able to combine strategy and creativity in meaningful ways. I founded Riju Music, a company that supports independent artists and labels with distribution, publishing, and marketing services.

A key highlight has been our partnership with Tribl, a globally respected name in gospel. Together, we’re supporting the gospel artists on our roster and strengthening their presence within the global music landscape. While we continue to build good fits for our artists across other genres, this has been an important step in the right direction. We are also signing new creatives across different services and building collaborations that give independent artists better access to global platforms. Alongside this, I’ve had the chance to share insights from this journey by speaking at festivals and conferences on the future of music and innovation.

What are your ambitions for the future?
For the future, my ambitions are simple: I want to be happy and keep doing meaningful work that creates real impact. With Riju, that means continuing to build a platform where independent artists and creatives can thrive, while also staying open to new opportunities and ideas along the way. As long as the work remains purposeful and helps others grow, I’ll feel like I’m moving in the right direction. 

What was your biggest highlight of studying at Leeds? (For example, friendships made, confidence in your abilities, or any single event that you will always remember)
The biggest highlight for me was the friendships I made. I was lucky to meet some truly amazing people who were kind, supportive and fun. They made the experience more enjoyable. Whether it was sharing ideas in class or just spending time together in the park, those friendships are what I treasure most from my time at Leeds.

Would you recommend the University of Leeds and the Business School to others? What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
Yes, without a doubt. Leeds is such a special place to learn and grow, both academically and personally. My advice would be to really embrace everything that comes with the experience. The Business School and the wider university have so many resources, from the libraries and study spaces to career services and personal support, and it’s worth leaning into those early on. Some of the best parts of my time there came from the little moments outside of class, and those are just as important as the lectures and assignments.