Aisha is a born and bred Bristolian and the Founder of the #Representationmatters movement and Assistant Principal at City Academy, in Bristol.
She is also SLE (specialist leader in education) for EDI (equality, diversity, and inclusion) and Community and PSHE (physical, social, emotional, and economic education). Aisha is also Curriculum and content curator, Keynote speaker and has done CPD/training. Over the past few years, Aisha has worked on a series of projects. BBC 'Inside Out West' which was a partnership with the BBC, to present a documentary for Inside Out West regarding the lack of black teachers in Bristol. 'What is a name?' Which is an attempt to provide a framework for schools to begin to address the lack of black history in the current curriculum. At Tedx Bristol 2019 she delivered a talk Tedx talk entitled ‘Why representation matters’. In a world where many people do not see themselves recognised in all aspects of life, Aisha wanted to reignite the debate and challenge the education system to look at its practice.
How did Aisha find the programme?
“BSWN is an organisation committed to supporting race inequality in business. This course allowed me to connect with other people that looked like me, those who understood my journey. Rather than focusing on being the only black in the room and feeling the need to assimilate. Instead, I could focus on the content.
Along the journey, I have been able to tackle head-on an area that was really difficult for me. That area was finance, lord knows I struggle with the idea of money. From what to charge to how to ensure that I am maximising my opportunities. Learning the importance of value was so important to me. I also appreciated the extra support from people like Amy. As I was able to gain practical support that took me beyond theory.
I have also enjoyed the connectivity created in sessions and salons. Hearing advice and tips from peers at different stages of the process was really valuable. My biggest take away came from Bobby. Realising that I had to believe in myself and believe that I would do it, I could do it. Yes, I would make mistakes. Yes, there are obstacles. But that was not enough for me to try. During one of the sessions, Bobby said, even if you don't think you can do, say yes anyway! Wow. Ok...so I did. I landed the contract and then learned afterward what I needed to do. I am glad I was encouraged to take the plunge.
My advice to the next cohort is simple if you can visualise it go for it. In life, we spend so much time waiting for validation and permission. Sometimes you need to just go for it!”
Twitter: @RMest2018
Instagram: @rmest2018
Website: www.repmatters.co.uk