In this profile Shaheena Salman Alwani, who studied Maternal and Child Health at University of the West of Scotland via distance learning, tells us about her career.

Tell us about your time at the University

I chose the University because of its reputation for excellence in healthcare education. My passion for women and child health, particularly maternal and child health, drove me to pursue a degree that would enhance my skills and knowledge. With experience of working in women and child health areas at Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, I was eager to expand my expertise.

The University of the West of Scotland provided me with the ideal platform to achieve this goal. On the course I studied areas including Leadership for effectiveness, Clinical Teaching, Case Management within Family Health, Research Methods in Health and Social Care, Supporting Normality in Childbirth, Psychological and Sociological Perspectives of Childbirth and Contemporary Issues in Maternal and Child health.

I received exceptional support from the mentors, facilitators, administration staff, tutors, and teachers. They not only endorsed our learning but also instilled in us the confidence to excel in our careers.

This degree has had a profound international impact on my career, setting me apart from my peers and providing me with a competitive edge. I’m proud to say that I’ve become a notable person in Pakistan, thanks to this degree. I’m grateful for the excellent library resources and the commendable hospitality of the University of West of Scotland staff.

Tell us about your experiences since studying at UWS

I have been a health professional for 20 years and currently Head of Nursing Services and Nursing Education Services at Patel Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.

Previously I served as Senior Manager Nursing Education Services at The Indus Hospital and Health Network Pakistan, was Section Head Clinical Nursing at Liaquat National Hospital Pakistan and was at Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery with 11+ years of experience as Head Nurse there.

I am passionate about maternal and child well being, research work and Nursing Leadership in particular.

My research and publications have been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

See my research publications here: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Shaheena-Alwani

I have been extensively involved in improving patient health care at Tertiary Care Hospitals located in Karachi Pakistan. As a renowned speaker and a spokesperson at National and International forums for promoting best practices in nursing field; I have won awards, momentos and appreciation letters from UK, USA, Dubia and Pakistan. I am an avid reader and a researcher with clinical teaching, administration and leadership roles at varied instances. Had won accolades at national and international levels on my research expertise, training and learning, leading workshops, seminars, conference and curriculum designing. I am an invested educator working on my professional growth and development. I have been a leading part of many accreditations like JCIA, ISO, SHCC, NIH-ICP. Humongous work at honorary capacity for women health, empowerment and education has been done in 3 decades.

I also volunteer for organizations dedicated to women and child care, geriatrics and family medicine furthering my commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Alumni career advice

I’ve discovered that success is a multifaceted journey. To achieve excellence, make every minute count. Seize the day with urgency, tackle tasks with purpose, and strive for precision through diligent effort and meticulous attention to detail.

Engage actively in research and projects to unlock new opportunities and differentiate yourself. However, remember that true fulfilment transcends personal accomplishments. As healthcare professionals and educationists, we wield a profound influence on the lives of others.

Cultivate a compassionate heart and mind, and strive to leave an indelible, positive legacy. Demonstrate care, kindness, and empathy in every interaction. Nurture others with generosity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to their well-being.

What drives you on

I’m motivated by the chance to collaborate with others, share knowledge, and contribute to the success of my team and organization with the urge to be a life-long learner. As I reflect, I realize that the journey, not the destination, shapes us, and the companions we share it with make it unforgettable.

Taking the metaphor of a plant, I’m nurturing my growth, cultivating self-regulation, and harvesting metacognitive awareness and reflection. With love and scaffolding, I’m pruning away obstacles and blossoming into a resilient, adaptable, and compassionate individual. With one idea, we can extract numerous ideas and that’s how the learning curve gets better. With this, will-power and enthusiasm are required at students’ part to get engaged in all possible ways. I emphasize on collaboration, cross- cultural exchange, personal growth & practical application.

I have not stopped learning and at the moment I am perusing another degree that is an MPhil in Education from AKU-IED to equip me with educational philosophies, research drive, right pedagogical approaches and for my own interests as educationist to delve with policy makers with critical lens to see health policies with educational outcomes.

This year marks my 20th work anniversary as a professional leader, and I am truly glad and humbled to have been associated with the University of West of Scotland. I’m forever grateful to Allah for His boundless mercy, unwavering care, unconditional love, and countless opportunities. “The world is a great book, of which those who never stir from home read only one page.”― Saint Augustine, Confessions. Thanks to my beautiful family for their trust and supporting me for this great cause.