Sarfraz is a career development practitioner with a rich and diverse background. 

As a British Pakistani and Muslim, Sarfraz reflected on how his diverse background has enabled him to connect with a broad range of people, particularly with those from ethnic minority communities who find his experiences relatable. He shared an anecdote highlighting this connection: during an open day, Muslim students were drawn towards him, seemingly comforted by his familiar presence. His understanding of their struggles, including language barriers and foreign qualifications, proved invaluable in offering them support. 

Sarfraz's journey

Sarfraz’s journey towards becoming a career development practitioner began in an unexpected manner. During his teenage years, a career matching programme suggested he would make an excellent careers adviser. This idea stayed with him. Yet, it was only during his sociology degree, whilst researching attainment rates among ethnic minorities, that he felt a pull towards the profession. His research highlighted a lack of understanding and support for ethnic minority groups in careers advice, pushing him towards a path where he could make a difference. 

While volunteering at a job centre, Sarfraz met an inspiring career adviser who helped him gain invaluable work experience. This experience led him to secure a trainee position where he furthered his qualifications. However, the journey was not without obstacles as Sarfraz faced discriminatory comments about his religion and background. 

Despite these challenges, Sarfraz remained steadfast, choosing to focus on the bigger picture. These experiences only strengthened his resolve to create a more inclusive and understanding environment within his field. 

Sarfraz’s story is a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion, not just in the workplace, but in all aspects of life. His journey highlights the resilience and determination needed to navigate and challenge the status quo. His impact as a career adviser provides a beacon of hope for those in marginalised communities. 

Sarfraz acknowledged the power imbalance he faced during his training phase, with the promise of a full-time job at the end of it potentially silencing any objections. The lack of diversity in the sector and limited representation of different ethnicities contributed to his feeling of powerlessness. However, meeting a Pakistani team leader from Birmingham during a placement in Leicester was a turning point. In the familiarity of a shared background, Sarfraz found support and solace. 

Throughout his career, Sarfraz’s diverse background greatly influenced his approach to career development. He understood the importance of having relatable role models in the field, especially for minority students. He shared a poignant anecdote of a young woman worried about her future due to cultural expectations, emphasising the understanding and empathy he could offer due to his own background. He provided her with reassurance, career guidance, and referred her to the necessary counselling and mentoring services, ensuring she felt supported and understood. 

The Intersection of Poetry and Diversity 

Sarfraz discovered his love for poetry quite accidentally when he came across his sister’s poems. Despite cultural stereotypes about men writing poetry, he wrote secretly for about a decade, gradually gaining confidence and validation for his work through workshops and interactions with fellow poets. His first book, published in 2020, marked a significant milestone after years of rejection and perseverance. 

Sarfraz’s poetry reflects his diverse background, covering themes such as Asian and Muslim communities, Pakistani culture, and personal experiences. He addresses issues like arranged marriage and cultural expectations, which resonate with many readers. His poem, 'My Date with the Super Muslim' is a personal account of a challenging encounter, showcasing the vulnerability and honesty he brings to his work. 

Among his body of work, two pieces hold a special place for Sarfraz: 'The 84 Pins' is a poignant depiction of a reluctant bride’s feelings, and 'The Stabbing of the Pomegranate' is a metaphorical exploration of rejection. His most recent collection, 'The Rumblings of the Romantic Poet' is his most open and honest collection to date. 

Sarfraz’s story underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. He encourages others to turn their unique traits into strengths and to seek out supportive communities and opportunities. His journey as a career development practitioner and a poet exemplifies how embracing one’s diverse background can open doors to understanding, connection, and expression. 

In sharing his story, Sarfraz continues to inspire and empower others who may be navigating similar paths, reminding us all of the importance of diversity and representation in all aspects of life. 

The Power of Persistence 

A recurring theme in Sarfraz’s journey is the importance of persistence. Whether in his career development work or his path to becoming a published poet, resilience and determination have played pivotal roles in his success. His story serves as a potent reminder that perseverance, coupled with the courage to leverage one’s unique background, can lead to extraordinary achievements and impactful connections. 

In the rich tapestry of Sarfraz’s life, we see a vibrant illustration of how diversity and resilience can be a powerful catalyst for change and growth. His journey offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to break barriers and make a difference in their chosen field.