Iqra Tabassum
University of Bradford Union of Students
Give us a brief description of your background
I am currently an elected sabbatical officer at the University of Bradford with my role within the team being that of an Education Officer. I have been in position since the summer of 2022 and I have been re-elected so that I can be in office for a total of two years.
I have a first-class honour in Civil & Structural Engineering and am the recipient of multiple prices including the Civil Engineering Department Project Oral Prize and the Bradford Soroptimist Leadership Prize award for my outstanding contribution to University/Community life.
As a student, I have on multiple occasions been elected off my merits to be group leader in projects, student representative for my cohort and I have held the positions of both Vice-President and Secretary of the Civil amd Structural Engineering Society (CivSoc) at the Students Union.
Alongside my role of Education Officer, I take lead on events focusing on female empowerment and safety and I also like to play a role in organising and executing large social events and gatherings that the union hosts.
In my spare time I enjoy swimming and spending time with my nieces and nephew.
Who/what inspires you?
I don’t have one particular source of inspiration, my inspiration comes from many different sources including people I experience in my everyday life, people in positions of power, and people who exhibit kindness.
In my position as Education Officer my biggest source of inspiration are the students who are able to support me in my growth. My job is to represent over 13,000 students and each student teaches me different things about myself and about life and about leadership.
What does the word leadership make you think of?
The word leadership makes me think of individuals who can give direction, using their knowledge of the people they work with to develop a person to the best of their ability. Working selflessly towards positive outcomes.
How do you feel about taking part in the Future Leaders programme?
I’m very excited and feel very privileged to be picked to be a part of the Future leaders programme. I am also looking forwards to start going through the modules and learning new skills and continuing to develop myself as a leader.
What do you think are the keys to a sustainable future?
Education – teaching people how ‘small’ changes we make to our lifestyles and daily practices can create significant change. But also acknowledging that we can be a part of bigger changes to be made for a sustainable future.
