Story: Louise Johnson
Sahir Ali, aged 21 and a resident of Fir Vale, graduated from Sheffield University this year with a degree in Orthoptics (Eye Specialist) Bachelor of Medical Science, with Class 2:1.
Sahir, the eldest child in her family, attended nursery and began her infant education at Owler Brook School. She then moved to Whiteways Primary School and later attended Fir Vale School.
After leaving school with 12 A* – B GCSEs, Sahir went on to Longley Park Sixth Form. After studying A-levels in Biology, Sociology and Psychology, she was then accepted into Sheffield University to study B.Med.Sci (Honours) Orthoptics.
Sahir, who has lived in the Fir Vale area her whole life, says:
“I have managed to succeed with the prayers of my family, friends and the love of the community. Our area is extremely fortunate: we have great opportunities in our surrounding areas and schools; it's all on you as an individual how you find and utilise this vast knowledge base we're blessed to have.”
Whilst attending university, Sahir still found time to play an active role in the community. This includes teaching five times a week at the ‘Jamia Islamia Urdu Teaching Centre’ that is run by herself and her father, a local Imam. She has also been part of the Sheffield Youth Council and involved in running a youth group called Sistahood.
“Some people think that being a British Muslim female is oppressive or restrictive when it comes to higher education but my parents have proven these stereotypes to be incorrect.”