Shabina Sadiq

Do have any previous professional experience?

Working in a Womens’ Charity Project with clients who have come from Middle East and Asia and will reside in UK for 3months to a Yr.
  I have also worked with a Sexual health Charity, delivering training to frontline staff on sexual health and how to support young people who have concerns on serious matters such as HIV or AIDS.  Part of my role included writing training material for international sexual health educators in Russia, France and Denmark. 
  Finally my latest experience has been to work in Public sector as a Joint Commissioner for NHS and Council.  This covered all aspect of project management, training co-ordination and commission funds for new programmes.

Why did you choose the MSc Development/ International Development with Philanthropy?

I initially enquired about the MSc International Development programme, as that is what the UNN website advertised.  Only when Katie Jenkins spoke to me about the programme, I learnt of the additional Philanthropy unit.
   With the additional unit, I felt that I already had some experience in fundraising and donor work but did feel that it would be beneficial to gain more knowledge on the topic.

What are the strengths of this course?

The Philanthropy programme was delivered in class taught sessions with group work being a key in understanding the way philanthropy in practice works.  Learning about the various methods of philanthropic practice allowed me the opportunity to reflect on areas where philanthropy could have been used to improve my working in the Charity sector and also as a commissioner. 
    The International Development part of the programme has so far been enriching.  The topics of discussion have varied from politics to current research practices.  The discussions and group work has allowed everyone in the group to contribute in an open environment without anyone passing judgement.

How will this course enhance your future career?

By providing me with a better insight and knowledge into philanthropy and international development as a whole. My aim is to work in the future for an international NGO putting both my work experience and learnt skills into good practice.

Why would you recommend MSc International Development?

A mixture of taught topics that won’t restrain you into a specialism but show you ways of looking beyond how you work in a global or development context.  

Why would you recommend Northumbria University?

Good access to local transport services. Accessible and supportive tutors and good atmosphere for learning

If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?

Enlightening, enjoyable and accessible.