Ash Moodley: A Small-Town Boy to a Corporate Success Story

Ash threw himself into his work, always aiming for excellence. In 2008, he joined BMW Group South Africa and advanced until he reached the point where he needed a degree to progress further. This realisation prompted him to pursue higher education. 

He enrolled at Milpark Education in 2017 and completed his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, both achieved with distinction. He is currently pursuing Milpark’s AMBA-accredited, fully online Master of Business Administration (MBA). 

Colleagues and friends influenced ash’s choice to study at Milpark, “Milpark’s qualifications are locally and internationally recognised,” he explains. “What stood out was the ability to apply what was taught.” 

He began his studies in person, surrounded by like-minded individuals, mainly other working professionals. Ash says the support from fellow students and Milpark made his success story possible.  

“You don’t feel like a number; you feel valued. I had tried studying elsewhere, but found they lacked the personal engagement and interconnectedness Milpark offers.” It has truly been a key part of my success story. 

His studies have had a profound impact on Ash’s career. “The MBA has already helped me significantly. I’ve applied strategic insights to enhance our business operations, and it’s equipped me with the leadership and decision-making skills necessary to manage teams effectively.” 

Studying has also boosted Ash’s confidence and given him the tools to succeed on a global level. “I have climbed the corporate ladder and continue to do so. The modules have been relevant and immediately applicable to my work.” 

Ash’s primary source of motivation has always been his family. Initially driven by the desire to help his parents send his brothers to university, Ash is now inspired by his own children. “The desire to succeed has always been greater than the obstacles.” 

Another challenge in his success story has been managing Type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed at 18, Ash learned he had to make significant lifestyle changes to manage his health while climbing the corporate ladder.  

"Experience has taught me the importance of balance - whether managing my health or balancing family and work commitments. My family remains my greatest motivation to keep pushing forward." 

If you are aspiring to lead, but feel like you are facing insurmountable challenges, Ash has excellent advice:  

• Stay Resilient: “Your past does not have to define your future. Use it to fuel your desire to be the best version of yourself.”
• Control What You Can: “You don’t have control over all circumstances, but you can control how you respond to them.”
• Prioritise Education: “Make the most of your studies. Education opens doors and equips you with essential skills. Take the opportunity to grow professionally and personally.”
• Think Long-Term: “Focus on the bigger picture – today’s sacrifices will pay off in the long run.”
• Set Specific Goals: “Working towards small goals kept me focused and motivated. Every milestone achieved was celebrated.” 

In conclusion, Ash's success story, from a small-town boy in rural Stanger to a global leader at BMW Group South Africa, is a testament to resilience, family commitment, hard work and the value of education.  

Studying has changed his life, “I can confidently attribute my professional success to my Milpark studies and learnings gained from my degrees,” says Ash, reflecting on the pivotal role education has played in his success story. 

If you're ready to take your career to the next level, apply now or explore Milpark’s distance learning options, including the only AMBA-accredited online MBA in Africa.  Learn more at Milpark’s course page or contact us today.