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Kelley School of Business Indiana University Bloomington
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Global learning through research fellowship: Examining AI implementation in South African organizations

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By Hillol Bala, Conrad Prebys Professor of Information Systems

From research to dialogue
This summer (technically winter in South Africa!), I had the privilege of serving as a Visiting Research Fellow at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), University of Pretoria. My two weeks in Johannesburg and beyond blended academic exchange, corporate engagement, and cultural immersion, centered on exploring how South African organizations are implementing and adapting to artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI (GenAI), and agentic AI.

At GIBS, I was hosted by Professors Louise Whittaker and Manoj Chiba, who generously shared their time and insights. My fellowship was anchored in a collaborative research project: Implementation and Use of Intelligent Technologies in South African Organizations: A Multi-level Mixed-Methods Examination of Challenges and Consequences.

The project examines how organizations adopt intelligent technologies—AI-driven platforms and systems that learn, adapt, and make decisions in ways that go beyond traditional IT. Unlike conventional technologies, intelligent systems are dynamic, agentic, and context-sensitive, posing both opportunities and challenges. For South Africa, these challenges are layered onto structural issues such as high unemployment, inequality, and infrastructure constraints.

During my stay, in collaboration with Profs. Whittaker and Chiba, I conducted interviews with several senior technology and business leaders across a wide spectrum of companies. These conversations illuminated how South African organizations are experimenting with AI, GenAI, and agentic AI to enhance business processes, customer engagement, and innovation. At the same time, leaders spoke candidly about barriers—from talent shortages and economic pressures to socio-cultural skepticism toward automation—that shape the pace and impact of adoption.

Expanding academic networks

Collaborating with faculty members from GIBS, University of Pretoria.

Thanks to the kind invitation of Professor Riana Steyn, I also visited the University of Pretoria, where I presented my research and engaged with colleagues on AI’s implications for organizational strategy, leadership, and workforce development.

These dialogues highlight how South African scholars are grappling with the adoption of AI in unique socio-economic contexts—such as balancing automation with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) imperatives and workforce diversity goals.

Beyond the classroom: Lessons from history and culture
Outside of academia and boardrooms, I immersed myself in South Africa’s history and natural beauty. Revisiting the Apartheid Museum, Mandela House, and Constitution Hill was profoundly humbling, reminding me of the resilience of the South African people and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Exploring Kruger National Park, as well as Cape Town and Stellenbosch, offered moments of awe and joy, grounding my fellowship in the broader cultural context of the country.

Exploring GIBS’ international partnerships wall, highlighting global collaboration.

Lasting impact and gratitude
This fellowship was both professionally enriching and personally transformative. The project advanced my research into the implementation of intelligent technologies in diverse socio-economic contexts, while the interviews with business and technology leaders provided real-world insights into the opportunities and constraints of AI implementation in South Africa.

I am deeply grateful to Professors Louise Whittaker and Manoj Chiba at GIBS, as well as to Professor Riana Steyn and her colleagues at the University of Pretoria, for their hospitality, engagement, and collaboration. These experiences and relationships will continue to shape my scholarship and practice for years to come.

Business Is Global 2025: Shaping future global leaders with language, culture, and business

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This summer, the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University welcomed 57 outstanding high school students—selected from a pool of more than 200 applicants—for Business Is Global (BIG) 2025. This immersive, two-week residential program is designed to broaden students’ understanding of the world through language learning, cultural exploration, and the fundamentals of international business.

Led by IU’s Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), BIG 2025 once again proved how transformative early global education can be. Students called the program “eye-opening,” “transformational,” and “one of the best experiences I’ve had.”

Instructor and students with a gayageum.

Business Is Global students explore Korean culture by learning to play the gayageum, a traditional string instrument, during an interactive language and culture session.

A global learning experience

Students explored four less commonly taught languages—Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Estonian, and Korean—paired with culture sessions that introduced them to customs, food, traditions, and business etiquette from each region. For many, it was their first direct experience with these parts of the world—and for some, the beginning of a deeper passion.

“I learned that Asian cultures/languages deeply interest me.”

These early encounters sparked curiosity and a broader worldview. As one student reflected:

“I would recommend this program as it opens your eyes to the world, and you learn so much about culture and languages in the business world.”

BIG helped students see how cultural understanding isn’t just important—it’s essential for building meaningful global connections.

PHOTO: “Business Is Global students explore Korean culture by learning to play the gayageum, a traditional string instrument, during an interactive language and culture session.”

Building business skills for the global marketplace

Students also engaged in business fundamentals rooted in Kelley’s internationally respected undergraduate curriculum. Beginning with Introduction to Business, they examined key areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and management—learning how companies compete and operate internationally. In Business Communication, they explored how tone and context shape cross-cultural messaging, while sessions on AI in marketing opened their eyes to how technology is transforming global strategy.

“Business Is Global is a great introduction to all aspects of business and various cultures. I loved how the business classes dove into the key subsections of business and gave students a basic understanding of what it’s all about.”

One student put it best when asked how cross-cultural skills impact business:

“All aspects of business can be enhanced by cross-cultural skills—whether it’s branding, understanding when and how to engage, using local language or slang, or simply wanting to connect more deeply with the culture.”

Bringing it all together: The team projects

Students seated at computers researching global snacks and international cities.

Students in BIG 2025 collaborate on a team project, researching global snacks and cities to develop business plans that blend culture, strategy, and entrepreneurship

A highlight of BIG 2025 was the team project. Each team was assigned a country and challenged to develop a business plan to market a culturally significant treat in an international city. Using the Business Model Canvas, they addressed pricing, customer relationships, operations, and cultural strategy.

“[The team project] not only helped me understand international business in a hands-on way, but it also allowed me to collaborate with my team and connect through something unique.”

Students presented their projects to a panel of IU faculty, alumni, and Indiana business professionals. Their ideas showed thoughtful research, creativity, and a real understanding of how culture shapes business success.

“I learned that collaboration is a huge part of success, that language and culture enhance business and understanding, and that it’s important to take risks and explore new things.”

The BIG impact—and what comes next

Again and again, students described BIG as one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives. The program helped them build confidence, practice teamwork, and imagine new possibilities for their futures.

Graphic titled "BIG 2025 by the numbers" with six red boxes highlighting program statistics: 57 participants from 18 states; 31 classes in business, language, and culture; 23 instructors from Kelley and the Hamilton Lugar School; 11 professional networking roundtables; 14 student project teams; and 12 judges at final presentations.

BIG 2025 by the numbers: High school students from 18 states participated in two weeks of immersive learning, team projects, and professional networking

“From the classes to the people, it had everything I could have asked for and more. It gave me a sense of college life and introduced me to people I would’ve never met otherwise.”

“Not only did I learn about culture, language, and business—I learned about myself too.”

But while BIG’s impact is undeniable, its future is uncertain. The 2025 session may be the final one supported through current CIBER funding. To ensure that this life-changing program continues, we need new partners and supporters.

Help sustain BIG

Business Is Global prepares students to understand the world—and shape it. If you believe in the power of language, culture, and business to build global understanding, we invite you to help keep the program alive.

Ways to support BIG:

  • Make a gift to support instruction, scholarships, and operations
  • Partner with us by offering mentorship, internships, or guest lectures
  • Share this story with others who care about preparing the next generation of global leaders

With your support, Business Is Global can continue to inspire, educate, and empower young leaders ready to thrive in a connected world.

Kelley School of Business and Tecnológico de Monterrey forge dynamic partnership to advance global learning and research

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The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University is excited to announce an evolving strategic partnership with Tecnológico de Monterrey, a trailblazer in innovation, entrepreneurship, and global education in Latin America. This partnership is designed to foster deeper faculty collaboration and expand student mobility between the two institutions, reinforcing our shared commitment to global leadership and academic excellence.

For faculty: Cross-border collaboration in teaching and research

At the heart of this partnership is a robust platform for faculty innovation through joint teaching, research, and academic exchange. Key components include:

  • Global Classroom: Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)
    Faculty at Kelley and TEC will co-teach COIL courses that bring together students from both universities into shared virtual classrooms. These courses promote intercultural dialogue, global problem-solving, and real-world collaboration—preparing students for the complexity of today’s business environment.

Library at Queretaro Campus

  • Global Visiting Faculty Program
    The Visiting Faculty Program will allow Kelley faculty to spend time teaching and researching at TEC’s campuses. This not only enriches the academic environment but also opens doors for long-term, interdisciplinary research collaboration.
  • Research collaboration opportunities
    Kelley and TEC faculty can collaborate on research projects in the following high-impact areas:

    • Leadership and effective and efficient organizations: investigating leadership practices and organizational behavior that drive high performance
    • Development of conscious enterprises: exploring strategies for building purpose-driven, ethically grounded companies
    • Entrepreneurship and innovation with impact: studying innovative business models and ventures that address social and environmental challenges
    • Organizational strategy and industry transformation: analyzing how businesses adapt strategy and structure in response to industry disruption and global change

For students: Transformative global learning experiences

Kelley and TEC de Monterrey offer students a gateway to Latin America through immersive programs that blend academic rigor with cultural exploration.

  • Semester exchange at TEC’s Querétaro campus
    Kelley students can spend a semester abroad at TEC’s Querétaro campus, engaging with top faculty and peers in one of Mexico’s most vibrant innovation hubs. With courses taught in English, the exchange fosters deep intercultural learning and exposure to Latin American business practices.
  • Summer International Business Program
    Students can also join the Summer International Business Program in Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Puebla, where they’ll take courses on international business and entrepreneurship while visiting leading companies and start-ups across Mexico. The program blends academic study with practical insights, making it ideal for students seeking to expand their global business perspective in a hands-on environment.

Why TEC?

Tecnológico de Monterrey stands out as a global partner thanks to its:

  • Innovative academic model: TEC’s challenge-based and interdisciplinary approach prepares students to tackle real-world business challenges.
  • Entrepreneurial spirit: home to one of Latin America’s most vibrant ecosystems for start-ups and business innovation.
  • Global focus: a strong international orientation with over 500 partnerships worldwide, offering students and faculty rich opportunities for cross-cultural engagement.
  • Excellence in business education: Consistently ranked among the top institutions in Latin America for academic quality, research, and industry relevance.

Looking ahead

This partnership reflects our belief that transformative education happens when borders blur and ideas flow freely. By collaborating with Tecnológico de Monterrey, Kelley is expanding its global impact—empowering faculty and students to learn, innovate, and lead across cultures and industries.

For more information on how to get involved, contact the Kelley Global team.

Global learning starts here: First-year Kelley students Apply inclusive design with international client

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By Benjamin Ale-Ebrahim, PhD

From coursework to consulting

This spring, I had the privilege of teaching a dynamic group of first-year business majors in BUS-X190: Hot Topics – Building a Better World through Inclusive Design. This eight-week course is an applied introduction to inclusive design—practical, equity-minded strategies for creating systems, products, and services that work for all people, inclusive of their identities, abilities, and backgrounds.

To bring these concepts to life, we partnered with Sarah Zineb Boumouja, a Kelley alum and CEO of Global Premium Events, an event planning firm based in Morocco. Supported by the Client-Based International Project (CLIP) grant from IU Global, students served as consultants to Sarah’s company, working in teams to design more inclusive events that could empower women, engage older adults in new technologies, and enhance accessibility for people with disabilities.

Instructor Benjamin Ale-Ebrahim with students L-R Susanna van Eeden, Agnes Kong, and Angelina Gillette in front of one of the posters.

International collaboration in action

Throughout the course, students learned from inclusive design principles and case studies across industries, including Microsoft, Adobe, Fenty Beauty, IKEA, and OXO. They applied these frameworks to the real-world challenges Sarah posed, meeting virtually with her across time zones and developing concrete, research-based proposals.

Their final recommendations included:

  • A mentorship exchange program between Moroccan university students and older professionals, where young participants could offer digital and AI training while receiving career mentorship in return.
  • A virtual speaker series aimed at advancing English literacy and professional development for Moroccan women in the workforce.
  • Accessibility-focused event design, including improved seating layouts to accommodate wheelchair users and inclusive registration systems that collect attendees’ mobility and dietary needs in advance.
    As one student reflected in a post from the IU Global blog:

“This was my first time working with a real client,” Andrew Vendt, BS’28, said. “There’s so much going on outside of Indiana University, or wherever you are from. This project really gives you a broad perspective. It was very beneficial to me, but honestly super fun working with a real-life client as a freshman in college, and it’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Curtis Yang presenting to students from another course during the IU Global Learning Showcase.

Showcase & lasting impact

Students presented their work at the Global Learning Showcase, organized by IU’s Center for the Study of Global Change. This was a culminating moment—not just for the class, but for many students’ first year at IU. They demonstrated professionalism, curiosity, and creativity, navigating the real complexities of cross-cultural business consulting.

For many, this was their first time engaging directly with an international client. Several students plan to continue working with Sarah beyond the semester to help bring their proposals to life.

Global learning, early and often

Thanks to support from Kelley Global and our partners across IU, this experience gave students a window into global business leadership that was both hands-on and meaningful. It showed them that inclusive design is not just a “nice to have”—it’s a critical business competency. And it empowered them to begin building that better world we talk about—starting right here, in their first year.

I highly recommend that other Kelley faculty consider applying for the CLIP program and incorporating international learning opportunities into their classrooms where possible.

Benjamin Ale-Ebrahim, PhD, is a lecturer in the Department of Communication and Professional Skills at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.

Passion for international business ignited

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By Jacob Thompson, BS ‘26

Studying abroad in Barcelona through the Kelley School of Business has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. I am incredibly grateful to IU CIBER and the U.S. Department of Education for awarding me the scholarship that made this opportunity possible.

Living and learning in Barcelona not only expanded my global perspective on business but also allowed me to fully immerse myself in a culture rich with history, innovation, and diversity. Throughout the course I gained enormous insight into the European market and business practices, which complemented the extensive academic foundation I received from the Kelley School of Business.

Skiing during a break in class activities.

Outside the classroom, I was able to fully immerse myself in the European culture while also exploring iconic landmarks like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, trying new cuisines across several countries, and building lifelong connections with students from around the world.

This journey has reaffirmed my passion for international business and inspired me to always try new experiences. I am proud to represent Kelley and IU CIBER, and I sincerely thank you for investing in students like me who seek to make an impact globally.

CIBER reflection: Japan study abroad experience

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By Tanny Khun, BS’26

During my study abroad trip to Japan, I gained valuable insight into international business through firsthand exposure to local companies, professionals, and cultural norms. Seeing how Japanese businesses operate not only deepened my academic understanding but also helped me reflect on the kind of work environments I connect with personally and professionally.

One of the most eye-opening aspects was how much formality, hierarchy, and etiquette shape business culture in Japan. From structured greetings to clearly defined roles, there is a strong emphasis on respect and tradition. These values were consistent across many of the companies we visited, regardless of size. It was fascinating to observe how these customs influence communication, decision-making, and teamwork.

Kelley student Tanny Khun posing in traditional Japanese attire while in Japan.

At the same time, I began to notice a contrast between more traditional companies and those that have adapted to modern global practices, such as encouraging open dialogue or promoting innovation through flexible work cultures. That contrast made me realize that while I admire Japan’s professionalism and attention to detail, I would be hesitant to work in a business setting that is rigid or slow to evolve. I value transparency, collaboration, and creativity, and I now recognize how important it is for me to be part of a company culture that supports those qualities.

This experience helped me understand that international business goes far beyond economic models or strategic plans. It is just as much about understanding people, adapting to different cultural expectations, and being able to communicate effectively across backgrounds. Learning how to observe social cues, navigate formal environments, and respect local customs gave me practical tools I know will benefit me in future cross-cultural settings.

Overall, this trip helped shape my understanding of what it truly means to operate in a global business environment. I am walking away with a greater appreciation for cultural nuance, a sharper sense of self as a future professional, and a stronger commitment to being adaptable, respectful, and thoughtful in every business interaction I have going forward.

Beyond the diploma: Ascend IUB’s lasting bonds

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People often wonder how their close connections at university will last in the real world. For members and alumni of Ascend IUB Chapter, there’s a clear answer to that question: They last through meaningful traditions like our annual Alumni Dinner, hosted every spring in the heart of Chicago.

At this event uniting IU Kelley alumni, Ascend’s full Board of Directors were granted the opportunity to connect with these incredible professionals over the course of two hours. With over 60 people in attendance, the atmosphere of this dinner buzzed with excitement as directors and alumni discussed topics ranging from professional pursuits in various fields to reminiscing about their favorite Ascend memories and celebrating the lasting legacy of Ascend IUB Chapter.

To wrap up the evening, our members took photos with the alumni and gifted them a giftbag consisting of personalized hand-drawn portraits and heartfelt messages, IU alumni merchandise, polaroids capturing memories from the night, and a printed card featuring photos from their time in Ascend—which all made the night even more special. Following the event, our alumni expressed that they truly loved the chance to reconnect with the Ascend community and meet the next generation of leaders. We were so proud to hear that they enjoyed the event, and we cannot wait to see them again next year!

We could not have hosted this event without the support of our wonderful sponsors. A huge thank you to Kelley Global, IU Alumni Association, and the Office of International Services for making the Ascend Alumni Conference and Dinner in Chicago a reality.

Kelley and IU Chinese Flagship Program partner to explore global business at BYU’s global Business Language Case Competition 2025

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By Samantha Thurman, BA’26, BBA’26

Thanks to the support of Kelley Global’s IU CIBER and the Chinese Flagship Program, three IU teams participated in this year’s Business Language Case Competition at Brigham Young University (BYU). The teams showcased their language proficiency and business acumen against teams from across the United States.

IU’s Mandarin teams at BYU.

The 2025 competition challenged students to develop a global expansion strategy for a Utah-based luxury shoe company, encouraging creative problem-solving and in-depth analysis of the European footwear market. Over the course of two weeks, students refined their case with guidance from their coaches, culminating in an exciting trip to Utah, where they put their preparations to the test.

Upon arriving in Utah, IU students were welcomed by BYU’s hospitality and immersed in the beauty of the region. A visit to Bridal Veil Falls offered a breathtaking glimpse of Utah’s mountainous landscape. The nine IU delegates also had the chance to network with fellow competitors and faculty over dinner, fostering connections beyond the competition. Additionally, they attended a thought-provoking book talk on the economic impact of immigration, providing valuable insights into Utah’s distinct culture and broader national trends.

French team perfecting their presentation while at BYU.

On competition day, anticipation ran high as IU teams made final preparations, perfecting their presentations before facing the judges. Their hard work paid off, as the two IU teams competing in the Chinese language category placed first and third, while the French team secured second place. These outstanding results are especially impressive given that many participants were tackling their first case competition.

Beyond the awards, students departed Utah with a renewed sense of confidence in their global business expertise and language skills. The experience reinforced the powerful connection between multicultural competencies and technical knowledge: an essential combination that will enable these students to develop innovative solutions, excel in international markets, and shape the future of global business.

 

From Indiana to London: Insights from the world’s leading Alternative Investments Conference

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by Mariana Franca Pavan, Class of 2025

Every year, the London School of Economics hosts the prestigious Alternative Investments Conference (LSE AIC), the world’s largest student-led event, bringing together top-tier professionals, investors, and students from around the globe. With more than 5,500 applicants and only 350 delegates selected, the LSE AIC provides a platform for in-depth discussions on private equity, hedge funds, and venture capital. More than 70 senior-level professionals from key industries came together at the conference through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, promising “to educate and inspire the next generations of business leaders”.

Photo of IU student

Kelley senior Mariana Franca Pavan represented IU at the Alternative Investments Conference at the London School of Economics recently. The conference is the world’s largest student-led event on private equity, hedge funds, and venture capital, bringing together top-tier professionals, investors, and students from around the globe. Kelley Global supported Mariana’s participation to the prestigious conference, which selects only 350 delegates from more than 5,500 applications.

This year, over 150 universities were present at the conference, and I had the honor of representing Indiana University and the Kelley School of Business at the 19th edition of the event. Over two days, I had the opportunity to interact with brilliant minds currently revolutionizing the fields of commerce and directly acquire knowledge from the ones responsible for shaping the industry. Discussions regarding the impact of tariffs on the alternatives industry, the evolution of the private credit market, the unprecedented growth of AI, and the sentiment behind the M&A landscape were among the main topics discussed at the conference.

Besides the keynotes and panels, I also had the chance to attend workshops led by firms such as Blackstone, Citadel, and Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Through the smaller workshops, I had the opportunity to closely interact with managing directors and founders. These sessions were incredibly valuable because I discussed outlooks on the private equity industry, conducted deal case studies, and expanded my knowledge of direct landing opportunities and quantitative finance.

More than just an academic experience, LSE AIC reshaped my perspective on business and leadership. Robyn Grew, CEO of Man Group ($175 billion AUM), highlighted how passion drives success and the importance of decisiveness, stating, “Indecision is worse than a bad decision.” Boaz Weinstein, founder of Saba Capital Management, reinforced the value of consistency in investing, emphasizing the need to be right at least 51% of the time. He also demonstrated the conference’s influence by announcing his continued campaign to reshape UK Investment Trusts.

Attending LSE AIC was a transformative experience, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning and building strong professional relationships in the investment world. This experience wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of the Kelley Global Office and its shareholders. I am incredibly grateful for their assistance in making this trip a reality and for their commitment to providing students with global learning opportunities. The conference deepened my understanding of alternative investments and provided actionable insights that I will carry forward in my career. I look forward to applying what I learned in both my professional and academic pursuits, continuing to work towards my goal to leave an everlasting legacy in the finance industry.

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