Entrepreneurial passion

Ahmed Nassrat
4th Year, BMgmt

Ahmed Nassarat has never lived in one place for more than five years but after finishing his Bachelor of Management degree at Dalhousie University, he wants to stay in Halifax. If he does, Nova Scotia will be gaining an entrepreneur that has already demonstrated his ability to succeed.

Born in Kuwait to Egyptian parents who are both gynecologists, Ahmed followed his brother to Dalhousie University. Their parents followed them both and emigrated from Kuwait to settle in Halifax. Ahmed chose the Bachelor of Management program because it was new and innovative and the thought of earning a less-common degree appealed to him.

“It’s a great business degree. It helps you combine your interests with business. For those that are lost, it’s a perfect way to explore. The program’s flexibility will get you to where you want to be.” said Ahmed.

Ahmed has used the flexibility of the program to keep all his options open by using his electives to gain an intermediate level in each field. However, one field of study brought out a true passion in Ahmed, entrepreneurship. “Ed Leach’s courses helped me to apply what I have learned and to develop my entrepreneurial spirit. The first year class got me into business and gave me my career direction.” said Ahmed. A direction he put into immediate action.

For the past two summers, Ahmed has operated a Students Works painting franchise and has grossed over $150,000 in sales. He employs six full-time painters and four part-time marketers. Not only is his business profitable and a great way to network in Halifax, it has earned him recognition. In 2006, Ahmed won Top Student Manager for his academic achievement of a 3.9 GPA, for raising the most money for Multiple Sclerosis and for being in the top 10 franchises in Canada. The award also recognized his efforts as a co-founder of the Dalhousie Junior Investors Society which educates non-business students on money management.

Ahmed has also received recognition for his academic achievements. In 2007, he received the Frank H. Sobey Award which is awarded to the top six business students in Atlantic Canada. He also received an entrance scholarship and for the first three years, in-course scholarships. With graduation only a few months away, Ahmed reflects on the recognition he has received saying; “Recognition moves you forward. I have received it from my family who expected me to be a scientist or a doctor and from the academic and business communities. My years at Dalhousie have been fantastic.”