We spoke to Hussain Ahmed, audiology apprentice after he was shortlisted for the Multicultural Apprenticeship award.
Tell us about your role and your time at CUH
Every day at CUH brings new opportunities with a diverse array of patients. Each moment is a chance to grow professionally, personally, and academically. Since joining in September last year, I've thrived in a dynamic environment alongside industry experts and an incredible team. This collaboration has honed my skills and practices, paving the way for my continued growth.
As an apprentice, I assist in repairing hearing aids and contribute to diagnostics and treatment plans for those with hearing difficulties. Over the past nine months, I've gained a wealth of knowledge and skills, becoming an integral part of CUH and its community.
I eagerly anticipate the future of my apprenticeship, committed to making a positive impact and bringing smiles to those we serve.
Tell us about your so far, before starting your apprenticeship. What led you to pursue this opportunity?
Prior to embarking on this journey, I followed the traditional route of A-levels at a local sixth form. I undertook A-levels in Biology, Psychology and Computer Science. Coming from a family with a strong background in education, with both my siblings and parents becoming being school teachers, I chose to follow an alternative path into the world of work.
Being a hands-on learner, I always had an eye for pursuing a degree apprenticeship.
While in school, I initiated many different ventures including a printing company and a wholesale business in cultural attire. With my experience in balancing different journeys, I was confident in maintaining a multi-disciplinary pathway, balancing work, education and personal hobbies.
What have you learnt during your apprenticeship that will be beneficial in your future career?
While I have always been a sort of people’s person, being an apprentice in healthcare has allowed me to develop my communication skills and confidence to a higher level. Interacting with a spectrum of unique individuals has allowed me to adapt my skills to all situations, while developing new ideas to implement to all future practice. Completing a degree while working full time allows one to understand the importance of good time management, balancing professional, personal and academic growth.
What challenges have you faced during your apprenticeship and how have you overcome them?
As someone who is at the epicentre of a strong community, playing different roles in helping communal development, one of the biggest challenges I have experienced is that I had to relocate to Cambridge right after I finished school, which was a whole new area for me. However, being in a different environment didn’t stop me from joining the community, within the first few weeks of living in Cambridge, I began teaching and running activity clubs for the youth at Europe’s first eco-friendly masjid, and now have many future plans that will allow me to remain a part of the Cambridge community.
What has being nominated for the Multicultural Apprenticeship award meant to you?
Being nominated for the Multicultural Apprenticeship award is an honour, showing my dedication to this apprenticeship journey and celebrates the importance of diversity to bring betterment.
The recognition of being shortlisted inspires me to continue advocating for apprenticeships and it motivates me to be a role model for others in the community. I am grateful for this opportunity to raise awareness about both positive aspects of apprenticeships and the constructive challenges which will bring opportunity for growth. I hope and aspire to continue contributing positively to my field and the community.