On Monday 24 June, 14 year 12 and 13 learners got the amazing opportunity to meet with Dr. Hafsa Ahmed to discuss what it’s like to be an ethnic woman in society. We looked over our identities, what made us who we are, as well as what we did, or have done, in life that makes us happy. Dr. Ahmed's workshop transcends the conventional approach to confidence-building workshops.

Her unique approach which involves engaging with one's true inner self, past experiences, strengths, and ethnic background to cultivate confidence was an approach we had never explored before. It was an amazing experience and opportunity that many of us walked away from feeling more confident.

“Being able to engage in such a personal and emotional conversation with Dr. Hafsa Ahmed was a real treat. As a woman coming from a minority group, Dr. Hafsa’s outlook on one’s true, complete self got me reflecting on who I truly am and what makes me ME.

Critically thinking about how my past, whether that be past experiences or people in my past, has shaped me into who I am today. It was an exercise I never thought was necessary, but now having done it, I couldn’t have thought of a better way to engage with myself, ” says Sreya, a year 13 learner.

“This session gave me direction on my journey of finding myself. Before it, I was feeling very lost and confused about what I should do next and I didn’t really think about who I was or my strengths in detail. The activities we did really helped me kickstart my journey, and I could listen and relate to everyone's journeys," says Bhavya Kalra, another year 13 learner.

We're grateful for Dr. Ahmed's time and the energy she devoted to this experience for our girls!