I was very excited to be invited to represent UCL and mark International Students’ Day at an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for International Students event with the British Universities’ International Liason Association (BUILA) in November. I read the email twice just to make sure it was real. Me, standing in the House of Lords, one of the UK’s most iconic institutions, celebrating the contributions of international students like myself? It felt surreal. But this moment wasn’t just about me. It was about representing thousands of students who have embarked on transformative journeys, leaving behind their homes, embracing challenges and striving to make a difference in the world.
I was born in Somalia just before the civil war, a time that shaped the trajectory of my life in many ways. By the time I turned eight, my family relocated to the United Arab Emirates, seeking safety and stability. Growing up in the shadow of conflict taught me resilience and ignited a passion for helping others. These experiences drove me toward medicine, a path where I could offer healing and hope.
At 19, I took another leap of faith, moving to China to pursue my medical degree (MBBS). It was a challenging but rewarding time that deepened my dedication to making a difference in healthcare. After completing my degree, I began a psychiatry residency in Romania. It was here, working closely with patients, that I developed a growing curiosity about the ways research and innovation could transform mental health care. I wanted to be more than a practitioner; I wanted to be a pioneer for change in a field that deeply impacts lives. This aspiration brought me to UCL, where I recently completed an MSc in Mental Health Sciences Research.
Moving to the UK as an international student was another leap into the unknown. The process was fraught with uncertainty, especially as a Somali national navigating visa applications. I knew the barriers I might face - stereotypes, restrictions and the possibility of delays. Yet, to my astonishment and relief, my visa was approved in just five days. That moment was more than just administrative approval; it was validation. It represented an open door to opportunities, growth and a chance to contribute to a society that welcomed me with open arms.
Since arriving in the UK, gratitude has become the driving force behind everything I do. It shaped my Master’s dissertation, which focused on evaluating digital health interventions for older adults from socio-economically disadvantaged and ethnic minority backgrounds. This research was not just academic; it was deeply personal. It allowed me to highlight the needs of underserved communities and advocate for more inclusive, equitable care.
Beyond academics, I found purpose in giving back to my new community. Every Friday, I volunteered with a grassroots charity, Charity Begins at Home , serving meals to homeless individuals. These evenings were humbling and transformative, offering me a glimpse into lives marked by resilience and determination. Listening to people’s stories of hardship and survival reminded me of the shared humanity that binds us all. These moments reaffirmed why I chose this path - to create spaces of support, empathy and inclusion for everyone.
Standing in the House of Lords at the APPG event was a moment of immense pride and reflection. Surrounded by individuals who champion diversity and inclusion, I was overwhelmed by the significance of the occasion. International students are not just academics or future professionals; we are cultural ambassadors. We bring new ideas, diverse perspectives and vibrant traditions that enrich the universities and communities we now call home.
Having lived in many countries, I’ve come to appreciate the unique values that make each place special. What sets the UK apart is its emphasis on people’s stories, hard work and potential. Here, I’ve experienced inclusivity and acceptance that have made my time at UCL profoundly meaningful. It’s inspired me to not only strive for personal success but also to find ways to give back and uplift others.
I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. None of this would have been possible without the support of UCL, the Division of Psychiatry and my incredible mentors. Their belief in me has been transformative, shaping my career and my outlook on life.
To my fellow international students, I want to say this: our paths may be filled with challenges, but they are deeply rewarding. The sacrifices, the struggles and the leaps into the unknown all contribute to the unique perspectives we bring. These experiences make us agents for positive change, capable of leaving a lasting impact on the world around us.
The APPG event was more than a celebration. It was a powerful reminder of the possibilities that arise when determination meets opportunity. It reaffirmed my belief in the strength of diversity, the power of resilience and the importance of giving back to the communities that support us. I’m proud to have represented UCL and to stand alongside so many inspiring individuals. This journey is only the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what comes ahead.
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