Escaping the Homeland

When I was just a young boy, my family and I embarked on a daunting journey from our homeland, Somalia, shattered by civil war. We traversed through several European countries before finally setting foot in the UK. The initial period of our life here was filled with unease and confusion. The absence of our father, who was engaged in paying off the debts accumulated during our escape, added to the chaos. I remember my mother transforming into a beacon of strength, holding us together, even though the strain was evident in her eyes.

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Adapting to a New Life in Sheffield

Our new home was in Sheffield, in a neighborhood where hope was in short supply. The unfamiliarity of the English language, British culture, and education system felt like a mountain I had to climb every day. I remember the frustration of not being able to communicate my thoughts clearly, but I refused to be defeated.

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Overcoming Challenges in School

In school, I was placed in lower-ability groups, a tag that stung my pride but strengthened my resolve. I took it upon myself to prove my worth, spending nights under the dim light of our room, learning, revising, and preparing. Gradually, my hard work began to pay off as I moved up to higher-level classes, proving that labels don't define us, our actions do.

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Meeting the Expectations

I was the eldest son, and I could feel the silent hopes my parents had for me. They wanted me to succeed, not just for myself but for my younger siblings too. The idea of just managing to scrape through school with 2 or 3 GCSEs was not an option for me. I could see the sacrifices my parents made for us every day, and this stoked a fire in me. In the end, I exceeded everyone's expectations, securing 11 GCSEs at grades A to C. I remember the pride in my parents' eyes, their joy becoming my motivation to aim higher.

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The Path Not Taken

As I stepped into my teenage years, I saw many of my friends succumb to the shadows of gangs, drugs, and violence. It was heart-wrenching to see their lives unravel. But their mistakes served as a stark reminder for me to tread carefully. I resolved to chart a different path for myself, one that led to learning and growth.

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Commitment to Education

My commitment to education didn't stop with school. I continued to explore the world of knowledge through A-levels, a bachelor's degree, and two master's degrees. This journey not only equipped me with academic qualifications but also provided me with diverse perspectives and a profound understanding of the world. These insights allowed me to contribute to the Education and Training sector in the UK and abroad.

 

Towards a Better Future

Now, I stand here as a PhD candidate, a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. Reflecting on my journey, I've learned that every challenge shapes us, every struggle strengthens us, and every success motivates us. I am more than a survivor of war, an immigrant, or a student. I am a testament to the resilient human spirit that strives, learns, and transcends. I aspire to give back to the community that moulded me and contribute to a world that nurtured my dreams. I'm committed to using my knowledge to light the path for those in the same shoes I once wore.

 

Qualifications:-

• Masters of Education TESOL (University of Exeter)

• MSc International Business Management (Sheffield Hallam University)

• BSc Business Modelling & Management (Sheffield Hallam University)

Certifications:-

• QTLS (Qualified Teaching Licence)

• DET (Diploma in Education & Training)

• CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)

• PTTLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Sector)

• Assessing Vocational Achievement- Level 3

• IELTS Examiner, IB Examiner & ELLT Examiner