For the past 5 years, Shwe has been leading two business arms of her family’s business in the garment and retail fashion industry. They have over 300 staff, 85% of which are female.
Before that, Shwe studied Business Management in Singapore and worked at Uniqlo Store Operations as an Assistant Store Manager in Singapore for two years.
Q. How do you feel having been selected as a Laidlaw scholar?
A. ‘I am incredibly honoured and excited to be selected as a Laidlaw scholar. Coming from Myanmar's garment industry in all aspects of a challenging country, achieving the Oxford MBA with Laidlaw scholarship definitely proves that circumstances aren’t barriers to anybody’s dreams.
Being a Laidlaw scholar means being a part of a network of inspiring women who are breaking glass ceilings and leading ethically. It also means that we have a community of amazing female leaders where everyone relies on and supports each other so that everyone succeeds. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be pursuing my dream without any financial burden and being a part of such an incredible community.’
Q. What do you think this scholarship, aimed at future women leaders, is so important?
A. ‘This scholarship serves as a beacon that opportunities are open to everyone, especially women, regardless of gender, age and background. It is an encouragement to aspiring women leaders that dreams do come true to those who put in actions and effort to make it happen.
It will also allow future women leaders to gain confidence, build a network, be part of a community of successful women and improve gender equality in all aspects such as career development, employment.’
Q. What are you most looking forward to at Oxford Saïd?
A. ‘I am most looking forward to meeting the distinguished and diverse cohort and learning from each other. I am also very excited about the curriculum, which emphasises social impact and entrepreneurship, along with many interesting electives such as Political Economy for Business Leaders, Entrepreneurial Finance Project. I am also looking forward to the college experience, unique to Oxford University and the historic beautiful buildings.’