Saba Asif

Current Employer/Organisation Name

London Borough of Camden

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I went straight into a 3 month internship at the Saudi-British Joint Business Council as an Executive and Marketing Assistant. After that I went back into Youth and Community Work, doing youth mentoring with young people at risk of exclusion in response to the ‘Exclusion to prison’ pipeline.

My background in youth and grassroots community work led me to be a Community Partnerships Officer and Borough of Sanctuary Project Lead at the London Borough of Camden. Day to day, my main focuses of work are Economic Inclusion, Equalities and Community Cohesion.  

I work regularly with local councillors, the police, schools and places of worship. I also work in funding design, reviewing grant programmes and allocating funding alongside effective engagement with community partners and capacity building. I’m here to offer advice to those looking to go into the non-profit, local government and social change sector(s). 

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy the fact I get to help improve the community I come from. I grew up very working class, I have experience of dealing with the Welfare State on behalf of my parents, then I became a carer for my mum who was terminally ill during my time at university so I understand what its like to deal with these services when trying to get help from the council/ the state. Getting to help people is the most important aspect of my work. Giving advice, signposting and relaying information that could be a lifeline is my work and I am really proud of it. I would never work somewhere that didn’t have a strong social change and help aspect.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was Social Secretary of Help Refugees, Outreach Officer of Islamic Society, Secretary of 93% Club Penryn, Publicity Officer for Finance and Investment Society, and Secretary of the RnB Society. I also attended Heels Dancing and Decolonise The Curriculum meetings regularly. 

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

Meeting different people and learning to grow thick skin because of them.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

The beach!! My social life was always popping. 

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Because of the Russel Group aspect.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

– Growing thick skin, not taking things personal

– Learning to manage different personality types and expectations their personality types have

– My year abroad taught me to prioritize joy and purpose

– Arguing less, listening more

– Being firm in boundaries  

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

If you are state school educated, a first generation university student, and working class, email me!

What are your plans for the future?

Keep social action going and supporting people/communities. I want to participate more in local politics and help local politicians see through a hopeful vision to foster greater community cohesion.