EDI advocat e nam ed as new LSBU Course Direct or

One of the chiropractic profession?s strongest advocates for equity, diversity and inclusion has been named as the new Course Director of the chiropractic program at London South Bank University (LSBU) Dr Sumaya Ahmed is a 2016 graduate of the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic, University of South Wales and has worked in chiropractic education since March 2020

?At seventeen, I learned about chiropractic through a friend at school who was going to university to study. After connecting with a local chiropractor in Bristol, I applied to university and was offered a place on the foundation year program I graduated from the Welsh institute of Chiropractic five years later "

On graduating from WIOC, Dr Ahmed went into private practice. However, after a couple of years working in chiropractic clinics, she felt she wanted to look at other career opportunities.

In 2018, she moved to London and began a post-graduate diploma in education (PGDE) through Teach First. On qualifying, as well as working full time as a science teacher, she practiced as a chiropractor during weekends and school holidays to ensure she retained her skills.

She became aware of the need for equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) advocacy during her early teaching career ?It was in secondary schools that I knew my presence as a South Asian woman was valued by my students. I set out to inspire students who could relate to me, knowing I never had the same experience when I was at school and university.?

In 2020, Dr Ahmed joined London South Bank University as a lecturer on the chiropractic Masters degree program.

In being appointed to this new role, Dr Ahmed feels she has fulfilled her destiny ?It seemed that becoming an educator was inevitable, seeing as both of my parents were teachers. However, at school I was often in trouble, and didn't have the best experience.

She says: ?As the only staff member from a minoritized ethnic background, I quickly saw how my lived experience would aid our chiropractic students through their journey Earlier this year, I was promoted to Senior Lecturer and am delighted to have become the course director for the chiropractic program I hope to continue to use my presence to influence not only our student body, but also the profession.?