Hannah Lacombe

Current employer: Afribiz

Position: Chief Attaché

Favorite Place in Charlotte: Reedy Creek Park

Hometown: Yaoundé, Cameroon 

Undergrad Institution and Degree: UNC Charlotte, Dual degree: Economics & Political Science

Dream Job: Development Economist 

Alumna
Master of Science in Economics
Master of Science in Economics graduate, Hannah Lacombe spent most of her life in a developing country. She is hoping to utilize her degree to be a part of an effort that will lift entire communities out of poverty.
What degree did you pursue and why?

I pursued an MS in Economics because I wanted to understand more about what can be done to help a society flourish.  Having spent the majority of my life in a developing country, my passion is to see greater access provided to individuals who do not have many opportunities to improve their quality of life. By leveraging my understanding of Economics, I hope to be a part of an effort that will lift entire communities out of poverty by providing them access to tools that will help them raise their standard of living.

Why did you choose the Belk College of Business over others?

I chose the Belk College of Business because of the consistent positive experiences that I had throughout my undergraduate studies at UNC Charlotte.  The professors in the Belk College not only provided me with the knowledge, skills, and encouragement that I needed to succeed in my undergraduate studies, but they also regularly engaged with me in conversation and challenged me to explore various economic topics in more depth.  The faculty at the Belk College of Business often went out of their way to understand where my passion lies and helped me to establish a clear vision for my future.  Whenever possible, the professors at UNC Charlotte have proactively helped me to accomplish my goals. I have also found great comradery with other students in the graduate program – overall, the atmosphere at the Belk College of Business is one where I feel that I can flourish.

Tell us more about your job and what activities you are involved in when not working/studying?

I work as Chief Attaché at The Afribiz Foundation, which is part of Afribiz. Afribiz is an ecosystem economy of social enterprises that promote inclusive economic development. In Africa, Afribiz promotes growth through venture, ecosystem, project, and partnership development. It also focuses on growing global stakeholders and building capacity both in Africa and beyond.

When I am not working or studying, my favorite things to do include travelling, spending time outdoors, running, playing music, cooking, getting to know new people, and learning about other cultures.  I also enjoy volunteering for various non-profit organizations such as Changed Choices and Dining For Women.

What has been the best part of your academic experience so far?

The professors at UNC Charlotte have been the best part of my academic experience – I can always count on them to provide me with the encouragement and support I need to succeed and push myself to persevere in the pursuit of my dreams.

How would you describe the Belk College of Business to someone considering a master’s program?

The Belk College is an environment in which you can flourish both professionally and personally. The standards are high, and the relationships that you will build with faculty, staff, and fellow students will be an invaluable catalyst for your success.