Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
Three students from Syracuse University's Whitman School of Management recently achieved a significant victory at the 12th Annual Energy in Emerging Markets Case Competition held at Duke University. Competing against teams from prestigious institutions such as Duke, Alliance Manchester Business School, York University, and McGill University, the Whitman team secured first place and a $10,000 prize.
The winning team consisted of Aakanksha Maheshwari ’25 MSBA, Vaijayanthi Kadhiravan ’26 MBA/M.A., and Trang Nguyen ’25 MBA. Despite not knowing each other before forming their team, they collaborated effectively thanks to introductions facilitated by mutual friends and the Whitman Women in Business Club. Their diverse skills were crucial in tackling the competition's challenge.
“Each of us brought our strengths to the competition,” says Maheshwari. “I am good at research and market analysis. Trang is good at financial modeling, and Vaijayanthi has expertise in geographical research and a background in geopolitics."
The case competition focused on Zembo, an e-mobility company in Uganda aiming to expand its battery-swapping network for e-motorcycles. The Whitman team proposed a hybrid solution combining franchisee models with internal investments to establish multiple charging outlets across various locations.
“Our teamwork was excellent," Nguyen noted regarding their preparation strategy.
In the final round at Duke University, "Team OG," as they called themselves, presented their proposal using innovative methods like videos and role-playing scenarios. Their efforts paid off when they were announced as winners.
“As the only first-year graduate student on my team, I had the opportunity to learn so many things from my teammates,” shared Kadhiravan.
Maheshwari added about her experience: “It was a great experience in getting to know myself, and I think we have all become more confident from this competition."
Their achievement brings pride not only to them but also to Syracuse University and its Whitman School of Management.
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