Ibtisam Ali

Year of Graduation: 2017

  • Course BSc Health Studies
  • School School of Allied Health and Midwifery
  • Nationality British
  • Career industry Health
  • Current job title Co-founder
  • Current Company Failforward Hub, Bridging BAME in Birmingham

I believe in representation as I think you can’t be what you can’t see. Be a champion for all those under represented and a beacon of hope.

I very much enjoyed the lessons as most of my lectures were very engaging and used a lot of practical examples. This made following the subject very easy. I have also found that most staff were very friendly and easy to reach. This contributed to my confidence as I was always able to ask for help whenever I was struggling with anything. In terms of facilities, the campus was easy to navigate and there were a lot of places where you could grab something to eat and drink such as coffees and sandwiches. More so, it is within walking distance to the town centre and other local shops. This was one of my favourite things about the campus. As a mother I always was able to grab anything I needed before I made my journey back home to Birmingham, which was ideal. The train station is a walking distance again, which was perfect for me as I could get home within 20 minutes. I have made few great friends that I stay in touch with to this day. Overall, I have really enjoyed my time at the University and it was a great experience. However, what mostly stood out for me was the fact that the University is very multi-cultured/multi-faith. I felt right at home. The University should really pride itself on its welcoming and accepting nature of all people and religions.
Due to my educational background of social science specifically health studies has enabled me to comprehend scenarios from a social science perspective and profoundly apply different strategies to a problem. Therefore, I have developed skills and knowledge that allow me to examine issues through different lenses. This granted me the ability to perceive, comprehend and respect that in health individuals realities differ. Health and behavioural theories such as Bandura Social learning theory and Stages of Change model have also extremely enabled me to understand the contribution of variables that influence human behaviours and health issues. I’m now always considering the impact of social, economical, environmental and cultural factors before I come to a conclusion. More so, my degree taught me the importance of health promotion and raising awareness of detrimental diseases as well as the impact of negative lifestyle habits.
Currently, I work with local governments and participate in developing approaches and strategies for problems. My work is very much based on problem-solving and we aim to improve their services to be more efficient while being cost-effective. Driving efficiencies and realising positive change for the benefit of public sector organisations and the citizens that rely on them, our services will help rise above the challenges created by austerity.
I’m also a co-founder of an organisation called Failforward Hub.
I would recommend to make the most of the University facilities and to volunteer for different things. My friends and I enrolled on a horse-riding program which we have enjoyed very much. Although I did not join any societies due to other commitments I would recommend it.