Against the Odds: Naheed Arshad-Mather MBE’s Journey

Naheed Arshad immigrated to the UK with her parents in 1968 aged ten and was educated in Manchester and Salford. Following completion of her A-Levels in 1979, Naheed became a pioneering figure as the first Asian Muslim woman to join the recently established humanities degree programmes at Preston Polytechnic’s, a predecessor of the University of Central Lancashire, Poulton-Le-Fylde Campus.

Taking such a step required immense courage, particularly for a young woman of working-class, Pakistani origin, leaving home to pursue higher education. Naheed faced the dual challenges of overcoming opposition from family and community members, as well as confronting racism and sexism in the wider world. 

Since earning her degree in History and Politics at Preston Polytechnic in 1982 and going on to achieve an MA in Social and Public Policy from Leeds University, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management, Naheed has built a distinguished career while continually serving the community in diverse capacities.

Naheed has accumulated 20 years of experience in higher education working as Principal Lecturer, as well as serving on the National Executive Council of the University and College Union. She became the first Muslim woman magistrate in her region and broke barriers as the first Asian woman elected to Kirklees Council, opening doors to many who followed. This work inspired Naheed to initiate a successful mentoring programme aimed at elevating Black and Asian women to senior management roles and she has since been recognised in the Equality and Human Rights Commission and The Times 100 Muslim Women Power List, as well as being named among the Top Ten Inspirational Women in Kirklees.

One of Naheed’s previous roles, saw her chairing a BME House Association, managing over 2,000 homes and an enterprise centre, and for this she was awarded an MBE in 2003 for her services to housing and the community.

Naheed has had and continues to have an extensive career. She has sat on various boards, including the Regional Executive Board of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly and has been appointed to various parliamentary commissions and task groups. She is still working as a TUC Member of the Employment Tribunal, and an Independent Person/Panel member of Bradford Children and Family Trust.

Naheed's life has been marked by a relentless fight against racism, sexism and inequality of all kinds, which she has confronted with tenacity but also grace, humility, and understanding. Her consistent dedication to community service, challenging the status quo, striving for equality, and empowering and mentoring others has been nothing short of inspirational.

When asked what advice she'd give to current students, Naheed said: "We need to advocate for ourselves and for those around us, with confidence and purpose. It’s through building our social connections, seeking empowering mentors and knowing when to ask for help that helps you achieve greatness."

Naheed met her husband whilst studying at Preston Polytechnic and they have shared 39 years of marriage and have two daughters. Naheed credits the decision to leave home to study at Preston Polytechnic as the most pivotal moment in her life, opening opportunities and shaping her future. Her exceptional contributions and unwavering service to the community for over four decades stand as a testament to the values the University of Central Lancashire holds dear. So much so, the University has recently awarded her with an Alumni Achievement Award for her services to Society and Community, something she is "very proud of."