Meet this Summer’s Alumni Speakers

Shwetaa Raaj, Aerospace Engineering MSc, Class of 2024

“To everyone graduating today, I know some of you are at your own crossroads. Maybe you are wondering if all this hard work is going to pay off. Let me tell you something straight from the heart. Hard work does pay off.” 

Shwetaa completed her MSc in Aerospace Engineering at Salford after facing a series of rejections from other Universities. However, Shwetaa was unstoppable and aced her master’s degree, completed an engineering internship at Erets Space, and is currently supporting the Co-op Academies Trust as a Cover Supervisor. 

Grant Henshaw, Physics MPhys, Class of 2019 

“One of the most cherished aspects of my time at Salford wasn’t limited to lectures or labs. It was the community – classmates, flatmates, lecturers, and mentors who inspired me to grow in unexpected ways. This sense of connection has stayed with me, guiding my efforts to give back.” 

Grant completed his integrated Physics master’s in 2019 and now supports the next generation of sustainability researchers as a Research Fellow at our very own Energy House 2.0. He’s also supported government projects like the “Money Saving Boiler Challenge,” which supported millions of households in reducing energy costs. 

Lianne Barclay, Building Surveying MSc, Class of 2022 

“Be the change you want to see in the world. Things get better with change and doing the right thing, even when it is hard. People change, lives change, we are constantly evolving. Inspire others to change and accept and support and engage.” 

Lianne became the first woman in her family to complete a degree, with an undergraduate degree from the University of Manchester and an MSc with Distinction in Building Surveying with us. A fierce supporter of the University and advocate for women and the LGBTQ+ community in construction, Lianne is a registered Class 2 Building Inspector currently working on a range of diverse projects at Salford City Council, including at Salford Cathedral, Salford Lads Club and Coronation Street, and was also previously a Building Surveyor at the University of Salford whilst completing her masters. 

Alvina Imran, Biomedical Science BSc, Class of 2024 

 “No matter who tries to put you down or what challenges you face, use your struggles as fuel to rise above. The same people who doubted me and made hurtful comments are now the ones who speak proudly of my accomplishments. So, when someone says you can’t, remember that you can! Because you already have.” 

Overcoming barrier after barrier on her path to becoming a First-Class Biomedical Science graduate, Alvina is a testament to our mantra of ‘become unstoppable’. During her time as a student, Alvina was the first female, Muslim president of the Students’ Union since 2017, a council member and an active course and school representative, always championing the student voice.

Stefan Carney, Sport Rehabilitation BSc, Class of 2023 

“I did a lot of learning from the roles that didn’t fit or work out, along with building positive resilience to overcome such obstacles along the way. It feels difficult at first, but with a positive attitude and the right people around you, you will get there.” 

After 10 years in the health and fitness industry, Stefan decided to pursue a BSc in Sports Rehabilitation, wanting to broaden his abilities so he could support more people more effectively. He now works as an Advisor with the Major Trauma Signposting Partnership, supporting individuals affected by traumatic injury. Alongside this, he is a Sessional Physiotherapist and Specialist Exercise Instructor at Healthbox CIC, and serves as Medical Lead at Sandbach RUFC, combining clinical expertise with a passion for community health and sports rehabilitation.  

Chisom Chizoba-Eke, Adult Nursing MSc, Class of 2023 

“Do not rush your journey. Growth takes time. Mastery takes patience. You don’t need to have all the answers today—but stay curious, stay kind, and stay committed. Let every experience—good or bad—teach you something. Your path may twist and turn, but every step will shape the professional you’re becoming.” 

Chisom undertook her masters in Adult Nursing whilst raising her three children. Despite a challenging two years, Chisom and her family took this challenge on together, and she now serves the community as an Oncology nurse working in Haematological and Ambulatory care, a role that allows her to blend science and service, knowledge, and kindness

Kai Ojo, Electronics and Computer Systems Engineering BEng, Class of 2000 

“Let your goals be bold. Let them stretch you. But remember that ambition without compassion is hollow. Be kind to yourself and others.” 

Kai completed his BEng in Electronics and Computer Systems Engineering in 2000. Now CEO of Planisware UK & Ireland, Kai leads a team that delivers AI-powered project portfolio management services to help organisations align strategy and optimise resources. He also chairs the Salford Business School Industry Advisory Board and supports underrepresented students in bridging the gap between education and industry. 

David Oyekunle, Project Management MSc, Class of 2022 

“Be bold. Don’t just chase opportunities, create them. Be the person who lights the path for others, even when your own path isn’t fully clear.” 

After completing his MSc in Project Management at Salford, David became a Data Analyst at the UK Ministry of Justice, a Fellow of the Association for Project Management, and founded two initiatives which empower young people and contribute to digital innovation.

Zuzanna Briant, Finance MSc, Class of 2021 

“And if no one’s ever told you – let me be the first: You belong here. You earned this. You are enough.  Your degree is not the end. It’s the invitation – To lead. To rise. To write the story only you can write. Here’s to your next chapter. Make it fearless. “ 

Despite facing bullying and xenophobia, Zuzanna overcame these barriers and graduated in 2022 with an MSc in Finance with Distinction. Currently, she serves as the Director and Practice Lead for Contract and Commercial Management at World Commerce & Contracting. With over ten years of industry experience, she specialises in global contracting across multiple sectors.

Dr. Idrees Mohammed, Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management, PhD, Class of 2024 

“Lead with empathy, grow with curiosity, include others with intention” 

 Describing himself as “annoyingly passionate” about inclusive and compassionate leadership, Idrees completed his PhD in 2024, focused on Building Organic and Inclusive Institutions through Strategic Leadership, Emotional and Cultural Intelligence. He now works within the NHS as both an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager and a Project Manager, driving forward inclusive practices and cultural change in healthcare. 

Lucy Fish, Dance BA, Class of 2023 

“Face the fear and do it anyway. Do it authentically, do it with resilience, and do it with positivity. I am sure you will all achieve wonderful things in the next chapter of your life” 

Feeling the fear after graduating in 2022, Lucy carried on and became unstoppable. She attained her PGCE, co-founded the Allure Dance Collective, and became the first creator in residence with MCUK in collaboration with the Manc Group. She’s even already given back to the next generation of Salford graduates, delivering a guest talk to dance students. 

Oliver Bennett, Graphic Design BA, Class of 2022 

“Without sounding like Master Yoda, I’d say to remain confident in your abilities but allow yourself to be open to learning from others. Our greatest assets to learn from are each other; you will all go on so many different journeys, so stay in touch and take inspiration from what you see them produce. Be open to critique and take it as a chance to learn and grow.” 

Oliver dove headfirst into the professional experiences available to Salford students. Taking on an internship with Manchester United, he was able to support their £315m deal with Snapdragon, work with the stars, and develop an incredible foundation in his profession. Since graduating, Oliver is now a Commercial Designer at Everton Football Club, supporting them in the naming rights for their new stadium. 

Matty Johnson, TV and Radio Production BA, Class of 2023 

“Keep using your craft and your power to make art that keeps you afloat, keeps other people shining and holds up your values, light and life!” 

Matty started a radio show, ‘Queering the Arts,’ during their time at Salford, which they still host two years after graduating on Reform Radio. They have thrown themselves into the industry, working as a freelance production assistant at BBC Radio 6, acting on the LGBTQ+ society’s committee and have worked with Salford Pride to hold events for the society and wider community. During Matty’s time at Salford, they were awarded Student of the Year and Best Radio Show for their final project piece on ‘Queering the Arts’, an LGBTQ+ arts magazine show focusing on Lesbian Visibility Week.