Inside a lecture hall at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, a young Indonesian student listens intently as his professor explains the complexities of global capital markets. Around him, classmates from across the world exchange ideas on investment strategies, business innovation, and the future of the global economy.
For Muhammad Zaky Salman, an alumnus of Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS), this is far more than an ordinary university class. It is where he is steadily working toward a dream he has nurtured for years—to one day lead a global investment company.
That journey, however, did not begin when he arrived in the United Kingdom. Long before studying financial markets and multinational corporations, Zaky's character was shaped at Thursina IIBS through the discipline of memorizing the Qur'an, a strong culture of learning, and a holistic approach to character development. Those values continue to guide him as he navigates a broader and increasingly competitive world.
Today, Zaky is pursuing a degree in Finance and Business Enterprise at the University of Strathclyde, one of Scotland's leading universities. His decision to study finance stems from a deep interest in financial markets and entrepreneurship.
For Zaky, finance is about more than understanding how money moves. It is about discovering how businesses create value, generate opportunities, and contribute to economic growth. He enjoys analyzing data, interpreting financial information, and exploring the many factors that influence business and investment decisions.
His achievements extend well beyond the classroom. Zaky earned First Place in the Company IPO Roadshow (Initial Public Offering) competition organized by AmplifyME in collaboration with The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF). He was also recognized among the Top 10 Asset Managers and Top 20 Sales Traders in an international finance accelerator simulation conducted by AmplifyME in partnership with UBS and Morgan Stanley.
Behind these accomplishments, however, lies a journey filled with challenges.
For Zaky, the greatest adjustment came when he first began life as an international student. Living independently, managing his own schedule, and adapting to a multicultural environment required him to grow in ways he had never experienced before.
He still vividly remembers his first day at university.
"The first time I stepped into the lecture hall is a moment I still remember clearly. I did not know anyone in the class, and I felt awkward because I was unsure how to start a conversation with the people around me."
Feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, and academic pressure became part of his early experience. Over time, however, he realized that success at university depends not only on academic ability but also on the ability to build relationships, manage time effectively, and remain resilient through challenges.
That experience strengthened the life principle he continues to hold today.
"My life principle is that greatness comes from resilience. I have always believed that achieving any goal requires overcoming obstacles, and resilience is just as important as intelligence in facing those challenges."
For Zaky, intelligence is valuable, but resilience is what enables a person to keep moving forward despite setbacks and uncertainty.
His commitment to growth is reflected in the many opportunities he has pursued beyond the classroom. In addition to completing an internship as a Business Development Intern at PT Bumi Resources Tbk., Zaky currently serves as President of the University of Strathclyde Indonesian Society, where he leads a variety of social and cultural initiatives for Indonesian students in Glasgow.
He also founded Semeru Capital, a student-managed investment fund focused on Indonesian equities using a sector-neutral strategy with the Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) as its benchmark. The initiative brings together students from leading universities across the United Kingdom to gain practical experience in professional portfolio management.
In addition, Zaky was selected as a Communicator in a student consulting project with the UK-based technology company Aquatron Scientific Ltd and successfully earned the Level 5 Diploma in Applied Finance, accredited by The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF).
Outside his academic commitments, he remains actively involved in the Indonesian community in Scotland, contributing to events such as the Nusantara Festival, Movie Night, Dissertation Talk, and various social and cultural programs organized through the Indonesian student association at the University of Strathclyde.
For Zaky, these experiences are more than résumé highlights—they are opportunities to develop the leadership skills he believes will be essential throughout his professional career.
His long-term vision is already taking shape. He hopes to become the Founder and CEO of a holding company focused on financial markets, green energy, and commodities—an organization that not only pursues business success but also contributes meaningfully to economic development and a more sustainable future.
"I want to be part of leading a company that plays a strategic role in investment and business development across industries that are important to the economy and sustainability in the future."
Muhammad Zaky Salman's journey is a reminder that education is about much more than earning a degree. It is about developing the character, resilience, and vision needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. From the Qur'an memorization halls of Thursina IIBS to the classrooms of Scotland, he has shown that discipline, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to learning can open doors far beyond geographical boundaries.
Ultimately, as the principle he lives by reminds us, true greatness is not born from comfort—it is forged through the resilience to persevere, grow, and keep moving forward. (lil)
