Saadia Abubaker

   23 years old
   N/A Grade Average
   Business Psychology (MSc)
   University of West England

First degree: Sociology and Psychology (BSc), Swansea University, First Class

Now studying for her master’s, Saadia’s leadership experience dates back to her undergraduate studies at Swansea University, where she was invited to join the ACS as a Careers Officer.

In that role, she created an eight-week careers programme, pulling together events, opportunities, and resources. A standout moment for her was seeing a student who attended most events go on to secure an internship – a tangible sign the programme was having an impact.

That experience inspired Saadia to set up Saadiaspeaks, a social enterprise inspiring young people from marginalised backgrounds to achieve their goals. One of the most rewarding aspects of the initiative, she says, was securing funding to deliver an empowerment event for 22 Muslim girls in Cardiff.

Coordinating a team of volunteers and workshop facilitators strengthened her leadership through collaboration with social entrepreneurs and navigating challenges with resilience.

“I think leadership, for me, is more about being the person that opens the door – and leaving it open for others, especially with the background that I come from,” she says.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

As a business consultant and running a EdTech startup to ensure young people from marginalised backgrounds aren’t left behind.

 

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