Ikrah is a social media manager and a freelance dancer for Paradox Dance Theatre which was founded by NewVIc alumni students. Earlier this year she was selected to feature as a dancer in the music video for Jake Isaac for his new album ‘for when it hurts’. Ikrah is also a hair business owner. She is a former vocational level student at NewVIc and came from Highgate Wood School in North London and studied Level 3 Photography, Interactive Media and TV & Film. She progressed onto an undergraduate degree at University of the Arts London to study BA (Hons.) in Public Relations. We caught up with Ikrah to find out a little more on her journey so far.

What made you apply to NewVIc?

NewVIc was a place that allowed me to flourish in my passion for dance and playing basketball alongside studying my course. It wasn’t just study but also the enrichment and sports that made my college experience more whole.

Tell us about your journey from NewVIc to NEWHMA VOICES?

After leaving NewVIc, I joined my desired university, University of the Arts London where I have just graduated from my BA in Public Relations.

Whilst at NewVIc, I built an amazing relationship with my fellow dancers. We were part of NewVIc Dance Company which enabled us all to learn and gain opportunities throughout London and the country. It was from this, we decided to create our own dance company which is called Paradox Dance Theatre.

How DID YOU GET IN THE CAREER THAT YOU ARE IN NOW?

Hard work and dedication and support from my peers.

I have always been keen on monetising my own skills and my strengths to make sure that I enjoy what I do.

Creating my own hair business was due to my love for styling hair and making people happy. This is the same with dancing which has always been my passion since I was 9 years old.

What are your FOND memories of NewVIc?

Meeting amazing people that shared the same interests as me.

Listening to live music from the DJ in the Link where everyone gathered. There were many of these that got everyone together at lunch times, felt like mini parties which made college life fun.

What is your advice for students considering NewVIC?

There is always something going on at NewVIc, you literally won't get bored. Take advantage of all the opportunities that are presented to you, especially when they are free! They are extremely useful and inspirational.

Make use of the Open Days and applicant days. It is a great way of gaining a sense of what the college is like. You get to meet the teachers, staff and students which will really help when deciding where to spend the next few years of your life.

How did you find the teaching at NewVIc? Did it prepare you for your next educational step?

NewVIc definitely taught me independence which was needed to prepare for going into university.

Teachers are there for you. The high standard of the teaching prepared me for university life and made the transition much easier.

How would you describe yourself before you came to NewVIc?

I was definitely very shy before coming to NewVIc.

I live in North London so coming to a different part of London was an experience in itself. I came to the college without knowing anyone at all but then was able to develop myself, gain confidence and make new friends for life I could relate to.

What are your future plans?

I know that I want to continue dancing and using my skills. I’ve graduated now so excited about stepping into the real world and not being a student anymore!