Razia Fez

Finalist

2023

Finalist

Initially pessimistic about her prospects as a learner, Razia restarted her journey at Redbridge Institute of Adult Education in 2015, where she enrolled on an ESOL Entry 3 course – a decision that would transform her life and spark a desire to help other adult learners uncover their hidden talents. 

I was one of the millions of Afghan refugee children who faced an uncertain future in Iran. Always passionate about education but with few opportunities, I came to the UK in May 2006 and married at 18.  

For a while, I worried that life here would be unhappy forever. I wanted to support my children but knew this would be impossible without knowing and understanding this country’s language, culture and values. I didn’t want to be dependent on my husband for simple things like a GP appointment or a child’s school meeting.  

In 2015, I enrolled on ESOL Entry 3 at Redbridge Institute, and the pace of my progression was unbelievable. I continued improving my English and, in 2020, passed my English GCSE. Last year, I completed my Supporting Teaching and Learning Level 3 Diploma. I am currently studying for GCSE Maths Higher and working in a school.  

There is no better feeling than being able to express yourself and your ideas with confidence, and I have never enjoyed my life as much as I do now. My goal is to gain qualifications to teach adult learners. I am determined to help people like me who are deprived of education, particularly women who might believe learning is a taboo. 

Naeem Nisar, Programme Manager, Skills for Life at Redbridge Institute, said: “Since restarting her learning path in 2015, Razia has been an enthusiastic and effective ambassador for Adult Learning. She has come far, and as one tutor puts it, deserves to reach for the stars.”