Graduate Journalist Makes It About His Words Not The Wheelchair
15 January 2013
Imraan Adam has overcome severe disabilities to achieve First Class BA (Hons) Journalism degree.
When people are reading my articles they are judging me on my writing ability and my ideas, not my disability or the wheelchair I use."
”Imraan Adam
A writer with severe disabilities graduating from the University of Derby with a First Class Journalism degree is now using his talents to help others in a new role.
Imraan Adam, 26, originally from Leicester, has cerebral palsy, is wheelchair-bound and needs 24 hour care assistance.
Despite these challenges his passion for writing has seen him write articles on his beloved Liverpool FC and be published on the team's website, and in the University of Derby Students' Union's Dusted Magazine on its sport teams, whilst also achieving a First Class BA (Hons) Journalism degree.
Imraan will receive his degree at a University Awards Ceremony onFriday 18 January. More than 2,500 students are set to pick up their degrees during Thursday 17 January and Friday 18 January, at Derby Assembly Rooms in the city centre.
Imraan said: "I've always been passionate about writing. When people are reading my articles they are judging me on my writing ability and my ideas, not my disability or the wheelchair I use."
He added: "I looked at a number of universities in the Midlands but decided to come to Derby because it had great facilities for disabled students. I've had a great time doing my degree here and plenty of help, such as note-takers for my lectures."
Imraan's studies have led to him securing a role as a Press Officer with Disability Derbyshire; which he became involved with while still a student, firstly as a volunteer worker and then as Vice-Chairman of its board. He will be writing articles for the organisation and helping them publicise their good news.
He has also been doing some mentoring work with students with disabilities currently studying at the University.
Emma Holloway, Chairperson at Disability Derbyshire, added: "Imraan has been a Trustee of Disability Derbyshire and also its Vice-Chair. Imraan's current role within the organisation is as Press Officer for Disability Derbyshire and also for our social enterprise company, the People's Ability Network. He is a valued member of the team."
For more information on the University's Journalism course see web link www.derby.ac.uk/courses/journalism-ba-hons and to learn more about its 2013 graduates see www.derby.ac.uk/graduation
