Thi Muoi or Rosie Hong completed an MBA from Leeds Beckett University in 2020. She came to Leeds as an international student from Vietnam and has now established a successful business.

Why did you choose your course at Leeds Beckett?

I chose the MBA course at Leeds Beckett for a number of reasons:
1. Affordable tuition and scholarship opportunities: The MBA programme at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) stood out due to its reasonable tuition fees, coupled with a significant scholarship specifically aimed at international students.
2. Focus on practical learning: Extensive research into LBU revealed a distinctive emphasis on practical, real-world applications over purely theoretical approaches, setting it apart from other institutions.
3. Location: Situated in Leeds, the university benefits from excellent connectivity to various cities and regions across the UK. This strategic location aligned with my preference for accessibility and convenience.
4. Affordable living costs and part-time job opportunities: Leeds offers an advantageous combination of affordable living expenses and a wide array of part-time job opportunities, making it an appealing destination for international students.

Tell us a few details about your current role and how you got here.

As the Founder and CEO of Rosie Hong Company Limited (a tailored fashion company), my role involves overseeing all aspects of our operations, strategic planning, and business development to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clientele.

My journey to this point began with a deep-seated passion for fashion and sustainability, which led me to identify a niche area combining vegan materials with 3D body scanning technology. This innovative approach allows us to offer custom and bespoke tailoring services with minimal waste and environmental impact. After years of industry experience and a keen insight into the evolving needs of the market, I launched my company to cater to environmentally conscious individuals seeking tailor-made clothing options.

Throughout this journey, my focus has always been on sustainability, customer satisfaction, and leveraging technology to refine our crafting processes.

Were you always inclined towards entrepreneurship? Did your course help you in becoming an entrepreneur?

My entrepreneurial journey evolved gradually, driven by a passion for innovation and sustainability in the fashion industry. The MBA course at Leeds Beckett University played a pivotal role in honing my business acumen and leadership skills. The course provided me with a solid foundation in strategic management, practical business skills, and networking opportunities that were instrumental in transitioning from a creative professional to a successful entrepreneur.

The combination of academic learning and real-world application empowered me to identify untapped market niches, develop a unique business concept, and establish Rosie Hong Company Limited. 

Did you use any university resources or support to set up your business?

Throughout the establishment of Rosie Hong Company Limited, I leveraged the university's entrepreneurial ecosystem, which facilitated connections with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators, further fueling the growth and development of the company.

The valuable resources and support from Leeds Beckett University played a significant role in the setup and early stages of Rosie Hong Company Limited, providing a solid foundation for entrepreneurial success.

You were an international student at Leeds Beckett. What is the best thing you liked about the experience and what was your number one takeaway from your time in Leeds?

As an international student at Leeds Beckett University, the experience was truly enriching on multiple fronts. The bustling city of Leeds offered a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, which, despite the demands of my rigorous MBA studies and part-time work commitments, provided numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The aspect I appreciated most about my time in Leeds was the exceptional ability to foster effective time management. Juggling academics and part-time work taught me invaluable skills in prioritisation, organisation, and striking a balance between my responsibilities.

Moreover, being in Leeds facilitated the formation of meaningful connections with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. The opportunity to engage with international peers from various countries not only broadened my global perspective but also enriched my understanding of different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking.

What are some of your best memories of studying at Leeds Beckett?

What has been your biggest success so far?