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Ibrar Hussain wants to be a role model to other young Asian men who have the ability to go to university but not necessarily the self belief to do so.

He believes his experience proves that perseverance and dedication is all you need to succeed at university. He was on the final year of his Public Policy and Management degree at the University of Bedfordshire when family commitments forced him to quit.

The 31-year-old promised he would return one day and after watching his brother graduate, he knew he wanted to go back sooner rather than later. 

He went to see his former tutors who agreed to allow him to complete his final year over a two year period. After this, he enrolled on a degree programme in Applied Social Studies where he thrived.

Ibrar has continued to work in a factory to support his studies as well as his wife and children. His ultimate aim is to become a social worker, specialising in helping Asian families with disabled children.

Ibrar said: “I hope to inspire other young Asian men to go to university, as higher education unlocks endless possibilities and once you have the support of your family and your tutors you can achieve anything. I had amazing support from my tutors who helped me realise my potential. Their encouragement was so important.”

Ibrar has now been accepted on to a Master’s programme which is will begin in September. “This is such an achievement for me and I’m delighted to be staying in education,” he added.