In this video, Shaila Karim from the University of Hertfordshire, shares her experience of Aurora, our leadership development initiative for women in higher education.
Shaila Karim, an e-learning technology developer at the University of Hertfordshire, has built her career around education and improving learning experiences.
“I started as a teacher working with young learners,” she explains. “Over time, I moved into colleges and then universities, where my role shifted from direct teaching to supporting staff and students with learning technologies.”
Today, she works with academics to enhance teaching through digital tools but says her core focus has stayed the same, “The common thread throughout my career has always been improving learning through support and technology.”
After completing Aurora, Advance HE’s leadership development initiative for women in higher education, Shaila says it has had a lasting impact on how she understands leadership.
“I used to think leadership was about roles and titles,” she says. “Aurora helped me see that it’s more about influence, behaviour, relationships and self-awareness.”
For those considering applying for the 2026-27 cohort of Aurora, her advice is clear:
- Be open: “It’s about reflection and personal development.”
- Make the most of the network: “The people you meet are incredibly valuable.”
- Step outside your comfort zone: “That’s where real growth happens.”
- Keep applying what you learn: “Aurora stays with you long after it ends.”
Reflecting on her experience, Shaila adds, “It continues to influence how I think and how I approach opportunities.”
Watch Shaila’s video below.
