A Lifelong Commitment to Learning and Empowerment

For Imtiaz Begum, education has always been more than a personal pursuit, it has been a promise, a legacy, and a powerful act of transformation. Her inspiring journey from supporting her children’s academic success to being awarded a First Class Honours today and now pursuing postgraduate study is a testament to the belief that it’s never too late to learn, grow, and lead. 

While Imtiaz’s own formal education ended at secondary school, she made a firm vow: her children would have the opportunities she did not. “I dedicated my life to encouraging and supporting them in their studies, always reminding them that ‘a life without education is a life without hope,” she said. 

Her commitment bore fruit. Today, her daughters are thriving professionals: an assistant headteacher, a physician associate, and an occupational therapist based in Australia. With her family grown and flourishing, Imtiaz turned her focus inward to dreams long deferred but never forgotten. 

Imtiaz’s return to education began with a diploma in makeup artistry, a step that reignited her passion for learning. Energised by this achievement, she enrolled in a BSc in Health and Social Care at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Birmingham campus. 

“Returning to education after many years was daunting,” she admits. “The academic expectations and adapting to new technologies were initially overwhelming.” But her resilience prevailed. Through “persistence, consistency, and a willingness to seek help when needed,” Imtiaz gained confidence and thrived in her studies. 

Health and Social Care was a natural fit for her, a subject that aligned with her long-standing interest in health, wellbeing, and helping others. “The course offered a broad and rewarding learning experience,” she says. “It developed both my practical and academic skills.” 

Imtiaz did more than succeed in her studies, she gave back generously to others. As a student ambassador, she supported university events and outreach. By Level 5, she began focusing more closely on helping fellow students, particularly those struggling to adjust in their first year. She became a PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) mentor, guiding students through their assignments and helping them build confidence in their academic abilities. 

Today, Imtiaz is continuing her academic journey through an MSc in Public Health and Social Care in Practice, a course that has further strengthened her communication skills and broadened her perspective on community wellbeing. But even as she studies, she continues to give back, mentoring students and encouraging them to pursue their goals. 

“My journey proves that it’s never too late to pursue your goals,” she says. “And with determination, anything is possible.” 

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476