Singapore, NUS EMBA (Class of 2024)
Selene Herrera
Head of Finance
Geodrill
Papua New Guinea, NUS EMBA (Class of 2024)
Lucy Sabo-Kelis
Board Member
PNG DataCo Limited
EMBA Travel Diaries: Lucy Sabo-Kelis and Selene Herrera (Class of ’24)
Embarking on an EMBA is a transformative experience for many. And for Lucy Sabo-Kelis from Papua New Guinea and Selene Herrera from Peru, it was also an adventure into the unknown. One which meant leaving behind the familiar and immersing themselves in new cultures and experiences.
These two trailblazers share how they ventured far from home to pursue their EMBA at UCLA-NUS – each bringing unique perspectives and a rich cultural background that add to the diversity of their cohort.
Lucy Sabo-Kelis heads her own law firm. She also sits on the board of three companies in Papua New Guinea, including the state-owned PNG Data Co, which provides wholesale telecommunications services to the ICT industry, and Teachers Savings and Loan Society (TISA), a financial institution that helps teachers in the country to actively save and assists them with affordable loan products.
Why did you choose NUS EMBA?
But because I can’t take much time off work, I decided that I need a programme that is more flexible. So I started researching online and learned about the NUS EMBA’s program format which appealed to me.
Another compelling factor was that NUS EMBA provided me with the opportunity to travel to different countries in Asia. There has been a growing influence of Asia Pacific markets on Papua New Guinea’s economy. As a board member who engages in discussions about securing contracts from various Asian countries, it’s crucial to have a firsthand understanding of the differences in their economics, business environments and industries.
What would be the most challenging aspect of the EMBA program for you?
The cultural differences. I studied in New Zealand and I’ve done courses in Australia. But coming to this side of the world, there were many things that were new to me. Such as the food, the culture, the way you relate to people. But personally, I adapt pretty fast. For example, I am now able to eat spicy food and I actually like them!
You have three young boys. Was it difficult being away from them as well?
Yes. You know, as women, we can be quite emotional about these matters. When you’re here doing this course and you get a call from your kids saying, “Mummy I miss you, can you come home now?” That really pulls at your heart strings. However, as career-oriented women, we strive to find a balance between our emotions and our rational thinking. We often find ourselves having to make tough decisions, where we must prioritize what needs to be done despite the emotional pull.
What are some challenges that women in the legal industry in Papua New Guinea face?
My law firm is one of the few in the country that’s headed by a female. I am also the first woman to sit on the board of one of the organizations I’m involved with. Generally, we are undermined a lot in the country and not given the first preference to speak. But the situation is changing. There are now a lot of boards now pushing for female representation as they now realize the value of diverse perspectives.
Traditionally, we are a matrilineal society and that has influenced my approach to leadership. As one of the second elders in my clan, I am used to making significant decisions. This background has instilled in me a strong sense of confidence and purpose. When I enter male-dominated professional settings, I do not hesitate to assert myself. I am fully aware of the power of my voice and the impact I can make.
Selene Herrera is the Head of Finance at Geodrill, a leading diamond drilling company in Peru. Her primary duties include overseeing the company’s financial planning, reporting, and treasury functions.
Why did you choose NUS EMBA?
I was attracted by the program’s focus on Asia, as it aligns with my career aspirations and interests. The flexible schedule also allows me to keep working while studying for the EMBA. Of course, the reputation of NUS as a top-ranked school was pivotal when making my decision, as I know that the program will equip me with the right knowledge and tools to succeed in my career.
What was the most challenging aspect of the program for you?
Having to balance my work responsibilities with the demands of the program. Because I’m based in Peru, I have to travel more than 24 hours for each segment, and also adjust to a 13-hour time zone difference during classes.
What are some challenges you faced personally as a woman in your industry?
The mining industry has historically been a male-dominated field, presenting unique challenges for women in the workplace. For instance, in some places, there is still the belief that women can’t enter a mine because it will bring bad luck. This is partly the reason why I have never entered a mine before. However, within my industry, I work in the finance area where women can find more opportunities for advancement, at least in my opinion.
How do you think your organization can further diversity initiatives and empower women in leadership roles?
My company is actively working towards achieving a more balanced representation of men and women within the organization. In the administrative departments, there are more women than men to address the gender imbalance in other specific areas such as operations. In recent years, I would say there has been a significant increase in the number of women holding leadership positions in the mining industry. But I think organizations still need to take more steps to empower women, perhaps in specific areas such as operations.