Graduation marks a momentous occasion as students gather to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth.
From the first tentative steps towards the future, they are ready to take on the world.
Amidst the countrywide preparations for commencement, where eager students are fine-tuning their speeches and donning black graduation gowns, there exists another extraordinary cohort of individuals crossing the threshold of achievement.
These unsung heroes are the hardworking mothers who tirelessly dedicate themselves day and night to ensure their children lead the best possible lives.
As the graduation season unfolds, let us shine a journalistic spotlight on these remarkable women, who silently embody resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering love in their journey towards personal triumph.
In an inspiring move, Noreen Khan, a resilient and proud single mother, has taken a bold initiative to shed light on the often-overlooked efforts of mothers everywhere.
Titled ‘Mothers Achieving Together,’ is a pioneering program designed to honour and recognise the relentless dedication of hardworking mothers.
The programme is run by NEESIE, in partnership with Maximus and schools across the district to develop good relationships with parents to support their child’s learning. The programme is designed to close gaps in achievement by laying the foundations with parents and their children and aiding their education.
The course is run over a ten-week period helping participants build their skills and confidence for a better and more financially stable future.
More than two dozen mothers participated in the course and graduated on 21 July Friday with certificates presented to them at an official graduation ceremony.
Elevated by the esteemed presence of the Lord Mayor and Mayoress themselves, this ceremony undoubtedly stood out as the pinnacle among all graduation ceremonies.
”I think it’s a great initiative for all those mothers who are not being appreciated for all that they do’’, said Lord Mayoress, Mrs Jean Barker
”These graduating mothers have been meeting us for the past nine weeks, we aim to upscale their confidence, mental health and issues regarding anxiety.
”We also focus on improving their economic growth so they can provide for themselves without being dependent on others.’’, said Noreen, founder, and Director of NEESIE
Noreen launched ‘Neesie’ several years ago, to help empower and provide support for single mums across the globe. The Bradford based charity has been growing year on year and gaining popularity for helping hard-working mothers.
When asked about inspiration for this initiative, Noreen gave all credit to her son, Anees
”My son made me feel worthy. I didn’t want him to feel like having a single parent is a bad thing. I wanted him to look up at me and feel proud’’, she expressed.
Neesie has garnered an overwhelming response, with hundreds of enthusiastic participants wholeheartedly embracing the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey towards self-improvement.
Co-sponsored by Maximus, with Fatima Patel, editor of Asian Standard and founder of the Inspirational Women Foundation, invited as the key-note speaker, this event left an indelible mark as a true standout among all its counterparts.
”It’s never too late. You must believe in yourself. Falling down is out of our hands, but we can choose to stand up and come back stronger than ever’’ Fatima told the group of mum graduates
A business owner with newspapers in four different cities of UK, Fatima Patel did not disappoint when delivering the message of courage and will power.
’’It’s up to us to change the headline. It’s up to us to give up or persevere’’, she concluded
Asian Standard managed to speak to some of the remarkable and inspiring women, who graduated from their ‘Mother’s Achieving Together’ course, delving into their thoughts and emotions surrounding the momentous occasion of their graduation.
Upon graduating Ruksana Kausar, a mother and member of Neesie told Asian Standard
”I’ve graduated before, but this graduation comes with more hardships, which makes it more special. Having a husband and children, I felt like they were part of this journey. I feel proud.’’ she said
Afusat Sanni, another proud graduate of this event, also shared her experience.
She said: ”This programme has enhanced our confidence and made us know what we want. I would encourage every mother to step out and take a stand for themselves’’.
Amidst the courageous endeavours of these mothers who dare to venture beyond their comfort zones, a staggering number of them remain confined to their homes, restrained by the suffocating grip of societal judgements.
While some break free to showcase their true capabilities to the world, thousands continue to silently grapple with the shackles imposed upon them.
”My advice to all the mothers out there is to never undervalue yourself. You are capable. You deserve to have a life bigger than just family and household chores. Once you take a step, you will be invincible’’, says Asma Zaman, another proud mother and graduate.
Elevated by the esteemed presence of the Lord Mayor and Mayoress themselves, this event undoubtedly stood out as the pinnacle among all graduation ceremonies.
Their gracious attendance added a touch of grandeur and significance, making it an unforgettable occasion for all the graduating participants.
Congratulations to everyone graduating!
