Alumni

Awat Mustafa

Career Path: Public Relations Director, Barzani Charity Foundation & Freelance Humanitarian Affairs Consultant
Location: Erbil, Iraq

My desire was to help people, especially the vulnerable ones, such as refugees and people who have been affected by natural and man-made disasters. My hope was that one day I could help new emerging nations with building strong institutions and adequate constitutions so people in their country could enjoy free and fair life. This sounds a wonderful ideal, but the truth is I did not then have the capacity and good knowledge to do that so i joined Northumbria University to study MSc International Development, because of that my dream journey has begun.

What are you doing now?

I am a Public Relations Director for Barzani Charity Foundation, the biggest charity organisation in Iraq. I travel around the world to seek funds for humanitarian projects in the Kurdistan region of Iraq for 1.5 million IDPs and refugees whom currently are residing in this region. I also participate in seminars and conferences to give speeches about the current crisis in ME region.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I wanted to study on this course to build professional capacity and good knowledge on development, both in theory and practice.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

The course was a good mix of lectures.

What was the best thing about your course?

The essay and empirical research on peace and reconciliation theory.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Completing my Masters degree has given me respect and gained me more influence within the humanitarian sectors I work.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Research and analysis.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I enjoyed attending the course and learning from fellow students.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

To be brave and challenge yourself, don't be intimidated by the work and study you need to do. Feel optimistic and have a vision, don't be ignorant but be proud of yourself.