Nilufa Jahan

Nilufa Jahan is currently a Labour Party Councillor and Deputy Cabinet Environment and Transport for Newham Council. Nilufa is a former A Level student at NewVIc. She studied A Levels in Government and Politics, History, Law and an AS Level in Business Studies. She progressed on to an undergraduate degree at Brunel University to do a BSc in History and Politics. We caught up with Nilufa to find out a little more on her journey since NewVIc.

What made you apply to NewVIc?

My sister and brother attended NewVIc. They both achieved really good grades and enjoyed their time as students here so I followed suite.

Tell us about your journey from NewVIc to where you are now?

I was on NewVIc’s Pembroke Programme with BSix College and Pembroke University (Oxford), which gave me a taste of ‘life at university’, writing essays and engaging with senior lecturers. The programme was invaluable in preparing me for university and talking to scholars leading in their fields.

After NewVIc, I went onto study Government and Politics at Brunel University.

After graduating, I secured a job as Research Executive at Agroni Research. I volunteered at the House of Lords, and eventually secured paid employment supporting a Peer. I now work within Newham Council, as the Deputy Cabinet Lead for Environment and Sustainable Transport.

How did you get into the position that you are in?

I always had an interest in politics and continuously campaigned for the Labour Party in Newham and Barking after university. When the opportunity to become a councillor came up, I applied and was successfully shortlisted as a candidate.

My interest in politics started in NewVIc, thanks to the brilliant lessons by Nazli Koc and Jacob Mukherjee.

What are your memories of NewVIc?

The Link and the fresh cookies from Sid’s café! The Link was the most memorable place where my friends and I would meet and play games during our breaks and free periods. The Link was also where you would meet new people from different subjects and year groups.  

What is your advice for students considering NewVIc and pursuing a career like you?

Firstly, I would advise students to be absolutely sure of their career choice before taking it up at university. For me, NewVIc was a fantastic college to start a career in politics not only because it had the resources and expert teachers to support me in my studies, but because it was so diverse. This gave me the confidence to be able to speak to individuals from different walks of life- something I use every day in my role as a Councillor. I would advise students to get active in student politics where possible, and join different clubs and societies such as the debate club.  

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

As someone studying both History and Government and Politics, some would argue the lessons were probably very boring. However, that was NOT the case at NewVIc. Carina and Nazli made the study of History very enjoyable. I still use Nazli’s tips at essay writing when I draft articles/policy documents today. Nadia and Alan, who taught me Law, helped break down complex theories and legal jargon to make it easier to understand. The teachers in NewVIc were amazing- I hope they know how much of an impact they had on my life!

What were your next steps after leaving college?

After NewVIc, I went onto study Government and Politics at Brunel University.

How would you describe yourself before you came to NewVIc?

I was a shy, timid 17 year old. My experience at NewVIc and university, really helped grow my confidence and become who I am today.

What are your future plans?

To continue representing the people of Newham and working towards improving the society we live in.