As a dedicated student dietitian and the founder of Aspiring Dreams CIC, a social enterprise committed to supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds in accessing further and higher education, finding meaningful employment, and nurturing ambitious futures. Through this work, she strives to empower marginalized communities, particularly those who have experienced displacement, by providing tailored educational resources, mentorship, and advocacy.
Her passion for community development and social innovation has led to collaborations with several prominent organizations, including the Office for National Statistics, the National Institute of Economics and Social Research, and universities such as the University of Sheffield and the University of Exeter. In these roles, she has contributed expertise on issues such as public health, economics, and social policy. Beyond academia, she has worked closely with charities in both England and Scotland, reflecting her dedication to broad-based, community-led solutions.
As one of the speakers at the Commonwealth symposium and at events hosted by organizations such as City of Sanctuary and The Entrepreneurial Refugee Network, she has honed her public speaking skills to spotlight the unique strengths and aspirations that refugee and displaced populations bring to the UK. In addition to serving as CEO of Aspiring Dreams CIC, she acts as a facilitator for The Entrepreneurial Refugee Network and a project coordinator for Student Action for Refugees, further demonstrating her commitment to fostering resilience and leadership among those seeking new beginnings.
In recognition of her impactful work, she has been granted a five-year ARAR membership by the Royal Society of Edinburgh—an honor that underscores her alignment with the Society’s broader goal of driving positive social change. Looking ahead, she herself aspires to continue bridging gaps in understanding and support for refugee communities, advocating for improved services and equal opportunities across Scotland and beyond.
Arooba Hameed
