In just three and a half years, my career has taken transformative and exciting turns—each one pushing me to grow both professionally and personally. After completing my A-Levels, I joined BAE Systems Digital Intelligence as a Software Engineer Apprentice. During this time, I built foundational skills in agile and scrum methodologies, as well as programming with Python, React, and JavaScript, all while contributing to projects in the national security space. After completing my 18-month apprenticeship, I stayed on as a Software Engineer on the same project. A few months later, I took on the additional responsibility of serving as Scrum Master—leading delivery processes while continuing in my software engineering role. To support this dual responsibility, I achieved the PSM I and PSPO I certifications and led team-wide improvements such as implementing Definition of Ready and Definition of Done, significantly enhancing delivery efficiency and clarity.
As the project evolved, I began supporting Business Analyst tasks, which sparked a deeper interest in consulting and led to my transition into a Business Consultant role. Since stepping into this new challenge, I’ve pursued internal training in Business Change and Core Analytical Techniques, which I’ve applied directly in my current role. I now work on a high-impact product used by over 3,000 users, where I support stakeholder needs, deliver change initiatives, release communications, create product documentation, and improve internal processes to enhance the overall user experience. I continue to invest in my development, having also achieved the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification and currently studying for a Business Analysis Diploma to broaden my professional capabilities even further.
Outreach is one of the areas I’m most passionate about and is something I’ve committed significant time to—often outside of my core role. In 2024, I dedicated over 50 hours to outreach activities, and I’ve already contributed more than 30 hours this year. One of my proudest achievements was leading and organising our office’s first-ever work experience week, where I supported 11 students with real-world tech exposure, workshops, and career insights—offering the kind of experience I would have greatly valued as a student. Beyond that, I regularly volunteer at careers fairs, run hands-on STEM workshops like the interactive “Wiretap” networking activity, support students with mock interviews, and mentor A-Level students through their NEA coursework. I am especially passionate about reaching young women and underrepresented groups in STEM, helping to show them the wide range of opportunities available in the tech industry.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are core values that I actively promote across the business. I am currently the Chair of the Understanding Islam Network at BAE Systems, and was previously the Gloucester site representative for over two years. In both roles, I have worked to foster cultural awareness, create inclusive spaces, and provide support and advocacy for Muslim colleagues and allies. One of my most meaningful achievements has been leading efforts to improve multi-faith rooms and washroom facilities across several sites. Through this initiative, plans are now in place to create a dedicated wudhu (ablution) facility in the Gloucester office—an important and tangible step toward creating a more inclusive and respectful environment. I have also led many other events like Eid celebrations and a Mosque visit which received a lot of praise. My DE&I and outreach contributions have been recognised through multiple internal awards, and I’ve consistently operated above expectations—receiving praise for both the quality of my work and the passion I bring to everything I do.
In addition, I lead external training and events for Core Consulting, our internal capability group. In this role, I identify, coordinate, and promote training opportunities that help our consultants grow in their roles and stay future-ready. One of the key initiatives I’ve recently led is organising our attendance at Agile on the Beach 2025. I’ve been responsible for planning the logistics and coordination for a group of 18 colleagues from across the business, ensuring they can attend and benefit from this invaluable experience. It’s a project that reflects both my commitment to continuous learning and my drive to empower others in their growth journeys.
My journey has been defined by ambition, adaptability, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Whether it’s leading agile improvements, mentoring young people, championing inclusion, or enabling others through L&D, I strive to create positive impact at every level. I’ve gone above and beyond in my roles, often contributing outside of my day-to-day work, and I’m proud of both the progress I’ve made and the path I’m paving for others to follow. I look forward to continuing this journey—learning, leading, and driving change wherever I can.
