Harvard Kennedy School Scholar from Pakistan Shares Journey to Fully Funded Leadership Program at HBS Online

My name is Shaliza Mansoor, and I’m from Lahore, Pakistan. I completed my BSc (Hons) in Management Science from the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), graduating with a 3.72 CGPA. During my time at university, I had the opportunity to serve in leadership roles across multiple student organizations, including becoming the President of AIESEC in LUMS.

Being in roles where I was entrusted with power made me reflect deeply on its impact, both positive and negative. I realized I wanted to better understand the origins, dynamics, and responsible use of power to drive meaningful change. This motivated me to pursue further education through the Power and Influence for Positive Change certification by Harvard Business School Online, with the support of a scholarship from Harvard Kennedy School’s Social Innovation and Change Initiative. I aim to take these learnings forward to build more inclusive, empowering spaces in the future.

Social Innovation and Change Initiative Scholarship Details

Harvard Kennedy School’s Social Innovation and Change Initiative sponsors 50 leaders each year to join Harvard Business School Online’s Power and Influence for Positive Change certification. The scholarship fully covers the $1,850 program cost, with recipients paying just a $50 confirmation fee. Selection is highly competitive, focusing on those creating real social impact.

Educational Background

I completed my BSc (Hons) in Management Science from the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), graduating with a 3.72 CGPA alongside a strong co-curricular and professional profile. I believe my diverse experiences and strong communication skills played a key role in strengthening my scholarship application.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Social Innovation and Change Initiative Scholarship?

The application required me to answer a few questions reflecting on my experiences with power and influence. I also submitted my CV and an endorsement letter from my fellow who attested to my leadership abilities and impact. Overall, the process was straightforward and simple.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I have had the opportunity to hold multiple leadership roles during my school, university, and professional endeavors. At my alma mater, LUMS, I led various departments within student societies and ultimately served as the President of a local chapter of AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-run organization. In my application, I openly reflected on my experiences and learnings from being in positions of power, sharing both the challenges and the growth they brought. I believe it was this authenticity and vulnerability that helped my application stand out.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I could go through the process again, I would actively reshare the opportunity within my network to raise more awareness about it. At the time I applied, not many people knew about the scholarship. However, after I posted about my certification on LinkedIn, several people reached out asking how I had secured it. In the future, I would make a greater effort to amplify such opportunities and help others access them as well.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

One thing I always say about applying is: "You only unlock the opportunities you knock for." Many people hold themselves back, self-rejecting or doubting their own worth before even trying. But when you believe in yourself enough to take the first step, opportunities often meet you halfway. Trust yourself, apply boldly, and remember, you only miss the chances you don’t take.