It is often said that some people are born leaders. However, this may not be true for me. My first notes on leadership were taken during my childhood. I grew up watching my best friend's mother's multiple duties: her roles as CEO, wife, daughter-in-law, and mother. I looked for features that would make it easier for her to carry out these tasks with unconditional ease. In this process, I learned valuable lessons that helped me overcome my personal obstacles that I faced during my academic years and much later; when I was a young man managing my father's travel agency. My career as a travel professional had just begun; when I discovered that working for the environment was in fact a natural vocation that I was destined to follow. I took what many call an occupational risk, but it ultimately paid off and I was offered the Project Manager position at Mountain Cleaners; a waste management NGO based in Dharamsala (Himachal Pradesh). This was one of the best decisions of my life, but also one where my true leadership skills were put to the test. Soon after joining Mountain Cleaners, our team decided to expand and starting a municipal waste management model in Dehradun (the capital of Uttarakhand) was in the pipeline. However, without warning, the challenges of working in a male-dominated society began to present themselves. Jodie Underhill, the founder and I faced constant gender bias from an NGO partner. It started to hinder even daily operations and eventually it was clear that we could no longer continue. However, I was inspired by Jodie's sheer determination and belief in the project and my commitment to the cause remained intact. So, together we decided to form a new organization - Waste Warriors;...... middle of paper ...... we believe that excellent management skills are the most essential thing. My work experience provided enriching “on the job” training on important management topics such as project management, finance, human resources and marketing. However, these skills have not reached their full potential and require structure. I sincerely believe that the IMRE MBA program will provide insights into a wide range of management topics, which will in turn influence my leadership skills. After working continuously for over six years, I now understand the value of academics much more. I like to take initiative and consider myself a proactive student who does not hesitate to ask questions and is ready to go the extra mile. My main motivation is not simply to excel in academia, but to make the most of the learning experience offered by the IMRE MBA program at TU Bergakademie Freiberg.