My name is Edvaldo Bernardo, and I am a fourth-year student of the  School of Business. 

My journey to IBSU was a mix of ambition, opportunity, and curiosity. Originally from Angola and Namibia, I sought a place where I could refine my business acumen while immersing myself in a diverse international environment. Georgia, with its unique crossroads of cultures and rapidly evolving economy, presented the perfect setting. IBSU stood out as an institution that not only provided a solid academic foundation but also fostered an atmosphere of innovation and global thinking—exactly what I was looking for. 

My experience in Georgia has been nothing short of transformative. As a Black international student, navigating this space has been a lesson in adaptability and growth. The country’s warmth, both in its people and culture, has made it a welcoming place, offering a blend of history and modernity that constantly surprises me. Within IBSU, the calm yet stimulating environment has allowed me to challenge myself academically while building connections with like-minded individuals from all over the world. 

What I appreciate most is the freedom to be both creative and strategic. Georgia and IBSU have given me a space where I can push my limits, refine my vision, and prepare for the global stage. The blend of academic rigor, cultural exchange, and real-world business exposure has shaped me into someone ready to make an impact. Looking back, this journey has been more than just education—it’s been an experience of self-discovery, ambition, and endless possibilities. 

interview conducted by Mersede Qupai, a student intern at the Department of International Relations