Heyab Daniel, '25 MBA SEM

"Don't be afraid to jump in and try new things." Heyab Daniel, who earned her MBA in Sport and Entertainment Management in June, practices what she preaches, having worked in a variety of industries, from music to financial services.

How has your background in sport/entertainment shaped your leadership and management practices?

I’ve learned a lot about leadership and management through my experience in sports and entertainment. The biggest thing I’ve taken away is how important it is to be inclusive and to really listen to the people around you. Leadership isn't about just making decisions; it's about empowering people and creating an environment where everyone feels like they can contribute.

Sports and entertainment are fast-paced, and things change all the time, so I’ve also learned that you have to be flexible. Good leaders adapt to the situation and make sure their team feels supported, even when things aren’t going according to plan.

Are there any lessons from your time at Albers/Seattle University that you continue to apply in your life and career?

Definitely. One of the biggest lessons I took from Albers/SU was the importance of building relationships. Whether it's with colleagues or clients, communication and connection are key.

I also learned a lot about ethical decision-making, which has been really important in my career, especially when navigating the sports and entertainment industries. Staying true to your values and being thoughtful about how your decisions affect others is something I try to carry with me every day.

And the network I built there has been invaluable — so I always recommend students take time to build connections while they're still in school.

What is one piece of advice you would offer to a student who is passionate about sport and entertainment and interested in following a similar path?

I’d say don’t be afraid to jump in and try new things. The sports and entertainment industries are huge, and there are many different paths you can take. It’s important to be open to all kinds of opportunities, whether it’s through internships, volunteering, or just meeting people who are already in the industry.

Take chances and learn as much as you can from each experience. And if you can, find a mentor. Having someone to guide you and share their wisdom can make a huge difference. Lastly, be ready for challenges, but don’t get discouraged. Stay focused on your goals, keep learning, and be persistent. The hard work will pay off.