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Lilian Schulze
Research & Service Design at Designit
Professional Background
Lilian Schulze is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a rich and diverse background in business development, project management, research, and communications. With her roots firmly planted in innovation and sustainable practices, Lilian has emerged as a leading figure in her field, contributing significantly to various organizations throughout her impressive career. Her journey began at Copenhagen Business School, where she earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Business & Development Studies, further enhancing her expertise in managing and implementing impactful business strategies tailored for sustainable development.
Prior to her master's degree, Lilian obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in International Business from Universiteit Maastricht, which equipped her with the foundational understanding of global business environments and cross-cultural communications. Driven by her passion for languages and culture, Lilian expanded her horizons by studying at the National Taiwan Normal University, honing her language skills that serve her well in today's interconnected world.
Over the years, Lilian has held pivotal roles across various organizations that span multiple industries. She has excelled as a Research & Service Designer at Designit, where she merged creativity and analytics to deliver innovative solutions for clients. Prior to this, she made a name for herself as a Product Owner at New Media Labs, showcasing her abilities to guide product development and strategy. Her tenure at Urbian as a Project Manager further demonstrated her meticulous planning and execution skills, managing projects that brought value and innovation to urban living.
Education and Achievements
Lilian's educational background is extensive and diverse, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. After completing her Bachelor's degree in International Business, she took her studies abroad, engaging in an Erasmus semester at the prestigious IAE Graduate School of Management in Aix-en-Provence. This experience solidified her international perspective and understanding, aspects of her education that would prove invaluable in her later career.
Her Master’s degree at Copenhagen Business School focused on Business & Development Studies, where she explored the intersections between business practices and sustainable development. Not only did this education set the stage for her professional journey, but it also instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility towards ecological and social issues affecting different communities.
In addition to her formal education, Lilian has actively sought positions that further fortify her skills in research, project management, and communications. As an Executive Producer at MERGE ZA - Fashion Showroom, she successfully orchestrated complex projects and led teams to create impactful fashion showcases. Her role as a Research Partner at Clue by Biowink included deep analysis and strategic recommendations, affirming her status as a thought leader in her area of expertise.
Notable Achievements
Lilian's career is characterized by several landmark achievements that underline her capabilities as a leader and innovator. Among her most noteworthy contributions is her co-founding of the Ubuntu Academy in Cape Town. Through this initiative, Lilian championed the cause of social entrepreneurship and worked towards empowering individuals through education and skills development. This endeavor reflects her enduring commitment to social impact and development.
As Project Manager at InnovateSA, she was instrumental in driving initiatives that promoted innovation across sectors in South Africa, expanding the organization's influence and capacity to support new project development. Her work as a Business Analyst at venn. Creative Business Development further showcases her ability to blend creativity with business acumen, delivering strategic insights that informed product direction and market reach.
Lilian has also collaborated extensively during her time at various organizations, including a stint in strategic communication with Invisible Sun and as a Marketing & Communications Intern at the African Social Entrepreneurs Network (ASEN). Her tenacity and dedication to community-focused initiatives have consistently guided her choices, affirming her desire to cultivate environments that empower individuals and uplift communities.
Throughout her career, Lilian has nurtured versatile roles, including contributions as a Local Partner for KAOSPILOT, where she participated in co-creation processes that engage stakeholders in generating innovative solutions. This collaborative approach has been a hallmark of her career, as she believes that the best answers emerge from collective brainpower and diverse perspectives.
As a passionate advocate for green economies, Lilian's tenure as a Communications Associate at the African Centre for a Green Economy (AfriCGE) highlights her dedication to promoting sustainable practices and awareness within African markets. Her early experiences, including her work in public management consulting at PwC and internships in human resources and social enterprise, have equipped her with a multifaceted skill set that she continually expands upon.
Conclusion
With her extensive background in business development, research, and social enterprise, Lilian Schulze stands out as a remarkable professional poised to make meaningful contributions to any organization she joins. Her diverse educational experiences, combined with a commitment to social change and sustainability, render her a valuable asset in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. As she continues to explore new opportunities, Lilian remains driven by her desire to foster innovation and create lasting impacts within communities and businesses worldwide.
