In this episode, we sit down with Zara Basharat to explore key topics at the intersection of sustainability, public policy, and career development. From how organisations approach sustainability across sectors to the critical role of public policy at companies like TikTok, Zara shares her insights on navigating complex challenges in these fields. We also dive into her diverse career journey, discussing the value of global experiences, the impact of life changes on professional growth, and key skills for those considering a career transition. Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship, setting personal standards of excellence, or debating the necessity of an executive MBA, this episode offers valuable takeaways for mid to senior-level professionals looking to thrive in a dynamic world.

Connect with Zara here:   / zara-basharat-higgs-04a03658  

00:00 Zara Basharat: Head of Public Policy Programs and Partnerships at TikTok
01:08 Sustainability communications: How organisations approach sustainability across sectors?
04:46 The importance of impact in your work
05:42 Public policy at TikTok: Why it’s important for organisations?
07:17 Challenges in Public Policy
09:25 Measuring the impact of public policy programs
12:24 Is entrepreneurship for everyone?
13:21 Diverse careers: Benefits and challenges
16:51 Career transitions for senior executives
19:44 How life changes impact your career?
21:39 Global careers: Exploring international opportunities
22:18 Lessons from different sectors: preparing for diverse challenges
24:44 Key skills for career change
26:28 Pursuing personal standards of excellence
30:11 Lifelong learning: Curiosity and continuous improvement
32:08 Executive MBA: is it necessary for career advancement?

At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.

That's why we're proud to present She Talks Business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.

For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org

Hosted by:
Saniya Zafar from Dubai:   / saniya-zafar  

Meet our other hosts:
Sanaya Bachooali from London
Khizra Munir from Karachi
Sana Khalid from Bali

Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & subscribe!

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Produced by: Minerva
Edited by: Talha Iqbal
Special thanks to: Emirates Podcast Studio, Dubai

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