Zak Iqbal was unsure what path to follow in life when he enrolled in an employability skills course at Barking and Dagenham College in 2023 when he was 16 — and has not looked back since.
He is now an enthusiastic student of photography, very much focussed on his future.
“It was a difficult time,” he admits. “I had gone through a challenging period in my life and struggled to stay motivated.
“But this course marked a turning point and gave me structure and a new sense of direction.”
Zak developed skills in teamwork, communication and how to manage his time which helped rebuild his confidence.
“I found it difficult at first to express myself or speak confidently in front of others,” he said.
“But the course helped me overcome those barriers step by step.”
Zak, now 18, has gone on to complete a media course, passing with a merit, and is currently studying photography that allows him to explore his creativity and love of nature.
He hopes to go on to university to study teaching and one day inspire others.
