Asylum seeker finds path to law through ‘empowering’ university experience

Deeba Deeba, a mother-of-two from the Hazara community in Pakistan, came to Leeds Trinity through a sanctuary scholarship, a type of financial support offered to asylum seekers, refugees, or people with limited leave to remain in the UK. Deeba and her husband came to the UK to seek asylum in order to raise their two children safely, which they wouldn’t be able to do back in Pakistan, due to significant conflict and hostility between the two communities they come from, as well as widespread discrimination against the Hazara community. 

Today, Deeba graduates with a First-Class degree in Criminology and Law.  

After a university experience filled with academic achievements, including winning a Dean’s Award during her first year, Deeba believes she has gained the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue a career as a solicitor. 

“I’ve always wanted to be a solicitor. But at first, I thought I would face stigma, as it seemed like a career only meant for certain people. After completing my course, I now feel like this is the profession for me,” Deeba explained. 

“As an asylum seeker, I initially worried I might face stigma or feel like I don’t belong,” Deeba recalled. “But everyone at Leeds Trinity made me feel heard, welcome and included. 

“The knowledge I gained on the course really helped my confidence too. Now I know my rights, I know the laws around my circumstances, and it’s really empowering,” she added. 

She studied Criminology and Law, as she believed it would offer her a range of options for the future.  

Leeds Trinity is a career-led university as has embedded placements in its courses since the 1970s. Through the work experience opportunities available on her course, Deeba visited law firms, attended webinars and other informative sessions, and explored career options, which contributed to her decision to become a solicitor.  

Julia Aveyard, Senior Lecturer in Law and Deeba’s personal tutor said: “Being Deeba’s personal and course tutor during her time with us at Leeds Trinity has been a privilege. Deeba’s enthusiasm and conscientiousness were evident from day one, and she has demonstrated that with hard work and resilience anything is possible. It has been a pleasure having her in the classroom and I am delighted that she plans to stay and do her postgraduate qualification with us.” 

Deeba’s advice for fellow students is to “ask for help and not let other people’s judgement distract you from your goals”.  

By accessing a Hardship Fund, Deeba was able to focus on her studies without worrying about financial challenges. But she also made the most of other resources, such as the Learning Hub, Library, and Student Support services. 

“There is so much help available, for a range of things, like assignments, personal life, or financial circumstances. A lot of students do not feel confident enough to ask for help, but it’s important to take advantage of what’s available, so you can focus on your studies,” Deeba added. 

After a successful undergraduate journey, Deeba will continue her studies at postgraduate level. She has been successful in securing a place on the LLM in Legal Practice at Leeds Trinity, to prepare for the Solicitor Qualification Exam (SQE). 

Leeds Trinity is ranked in the top 20 in the UK for Law. Find out more about studying in the School of Business and Law by visiting the website.