Shakira Martin

Shakira Martin has a diverse work experience in the field of education and student representation. Shakira has held various roles in different organizations, starting with their current position as the Head of Student Experience at Croydon College since January 2023. Prior to that, they founded The Class of 2020 #DigiProm in May 2020. Before that, they worked as a Consulting Fellow and Advisory Board Member at Halpin since May 2019, where they specialized in higher education and provided advice and consultation on student, education, politics, and youth matters. Shakira also served as a Student Panel Member at the Office for Students since February 2018. Additionally, Shakira Martin played a significant role in the National Union of Students (UK) as the National President from June 2017. Shakira chaired the board and led national campaigns, representing students on various matters. Shakira also held the position of Vice President Further Education from June 2015 to June 2017, where they advocated for FE students. Furthermore, Shakira Martin has experience as a Board Member at Endsleigh Insurance Services Ltd from June 2017 to May 2019, where they made strategic decisions on student and education matters. Shakira also served as a Council Member at UCAS during the same period. Moreover, they were a Board Observer at the Higher Education Funding Council for England from June 2017 to December 2017, where they offered insights on complex policy matters concerning the student experience. Lastly, Shakira Martin served as a Board Member at The Education and Training Foundation from July 2015 to June 2017, where they represented students on workforce development and professional standards.

Shakira Martin started their education journey in 1999 at Catford Girls School, where they pursued their GCSE studies until 2004. In 2010, they attended Cadcentre and obtained an NVQ in Business Administration, focusing on Customer Service, which they completed in 2012. From 2012 to 2013, Shakira enrolled at BRIGHT assessing and earned an A1 NCFE NVQ ASSESSOR degree in Assessing. Continuing their education, they attended Lewisham and Southwark College from 2013 to 2016, where they achieved a Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector at Level 5, specializing in Further Education Teaching.

In 2018, Shakira pursued further professional development by engaging in a Level 7 Strategic Leadership and Management program with a focus on Business Administration and Management at the Chartered Management Institute. This program lasted until 2020, equipping Shakira with advanced skills in strategic leadership and management.

Currently, Shakira is expanding their knowledge and expertise by pursuing a Master's degree at the University of Winchester. Shakira'sfocus of study is Student Engagement, and they are expected to complete their degree in 2022.