Classes of the 20s
Updates from alumni who graduated during the 2020s
Zoya Habib, Medical Imaging MSc '23
"Since leaving Dundee, I have gone back to my home country, India, and I am pursuing MD Radiodiagnosis from West Bengal. I will forever be thankful to my tutors for guiding and supporting me in my masters. I will forever miss the University of Dundee, and I am really thankful for the experience and knowledge I have gained."
Dr Krunal Soni, Orthopaedic Surgery '20
"My journey from the lecture halls of Dundee to the operating theatres of Apollo Hospitals in Ahmedabad has been one filled with purpose, learning, and deep gratitude.
"Dundee was more than a university for me; it was where I learned that healing is as much about empathy and curiosity as it is about skill. Those lessons continue to guide me every single day."
As Director of The Bombay Surgeons – Surgical Center and the Apollo RESTORE+ Programme, I strive to bring those values into every surgery, every interaction. Through my work in Orthopedic Trauma, Arthroscopy, Joint Surgery, and Infection Control under my flagship initiative, P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Orthopedics, I’ve been fortunate to help patients restore movement with confidence and hope.
By Heading the Indian Chapter of global collaborations like Surgeons for Surgeons (SFS), The Operating Room Global (TORG), and SECOPP, ALLKNEE International, I mentor young surgeons and share the ethos Dundee instilled in me - to lead with compassion, to innovate with purpose, and to always give back.
Suvetha Manoharan, Dental Public Health '24
"My Dundee journey continues to shape my career! After graduating with my Master's in Dental Public Health, I've been working with Kent County Council and as an Academic Associate with NNEDPRO in London.
"Recently, I published research on e-cigarette attitudes among Dundee students and was honoured with the Affiliate Member of the Year Award at NNEdPro-IANE. The public health knowledge and research skills I gained at Dundee have been invaluable in these roles."
Samantha Brown, Childhood Practice '23
"I started studying whilst working as a Primary Early Years Support Assistant in 2018, becoming pregnant with my second child in 2019. I continued to work and study throughout, welcoming my son in early 2020 right before the COVID lockdown. The struggles during this time with a four-year-old and a newborn made me more determined to focus and become successful for my children. I took on a role as an Early Years Educator in a different school while finishing my degree and became manager of a nursery class soon after.
"Using the knowledge and skills learned from my work and studies, I am now thrilled to be working as an Inspector for Care Inspectorate, specialising in Children and Young People. A role I dreamed would be the goal of my 10-year plan became reality more quickly than I ever imagined. I could not be more grateful for the support and opportunities I received through my work and studies over the years."
Azharul Islam, Management and International HR Management MSc '24
"I now live in Manchester and work in the HR department of a nationwide childcare organization, focusing on Recruitment of Group HR.
"Achieving a degree from the UK had been my dream since childhood, and everyone connected to the University of Dundee will always remain close to my heart. After gaining seven years of experience in the HR department of a multinational company, when the time finally came to make my lifelong dream a reality, the University of Dundee made it happen through its program in Management and International Human Resource Management. Dundee isn’t just where I studied, it’s where my dream came true. No matter where life takes me, I will always return to Dundee, my university, at least once every year."
Fatima Shah Mahmood, Management and International HR Management MSc '24
"I'm now working with the Civil Society and Human Rights Network in Sweden. I’ve found a sense of purpose in expanding my knowledge and contributing to the development of civil society. The journey continues, shaped by what Dundee inspired in me.
"My one year in Dundee was truly unforgettable, a time of learning, growth, and self-discovery. Completing my MSc in Management and International Human Resources opened my eyes to new perspectives and possibilities."
Sourav Sonia, International Business and HR Management MSc '24
"I’m now working as a People Manager at McDonald’s, leading and supporting a wonderful team. My time at Dundee was truly special - filled with inspiring teachers, lasting friendships, and experiences that shaped both my career and who I am today."
Dr Yasmeen Akhtar, Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education '23
"With over 30 years of academic and clinical experience in women’s health, my journey has been devoted to advancing safe motherhood and shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. I currently serve as a Consultant and Surgeon in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Bahrain, and as faculty at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Bahrain.
"I hold the Certificate in Medical Education from the University of Dundee, which deepened my passion for innovative teaching. I am now pursuing my Master’s in Medical Education to further strengthen my role in developing effective and compassionate educators.
As an MRCOG OSCE Examiner (UK) and MRCPI Examiner (Ireland), I am privileged to uphold the highest standards in medical education and clinical assessment. My work includes 28 publications on Google Scholar and numerous presentations as an international speaker.
"Beyond clinical and academic work, I am deeply committed to medical education through digital platforms. Through my channel RoyalDocline, I teach and mentor MRCOG and MRCPI candidates worldwide - sharing exam preparation guidance, simulation-based learning sessions, and professional insights.
"My core interests include simulation-based learning, the Safe Motherhood Initiative, and promoting women’s health as my lifelong mission. Every step of my journey continues to reflect my belief that education and empathy together can transform healthcare for women globally."
Chukwuebuka Akwiwu-Uzoma, Data Science and Engineering '23
Since graduating, Chukwuebuka has been working as a Senior Data Engineer with Arm, implementing data infrastructure that enables power-efficient chip delivery. He served as a teaching assistant in the Computing School at Dundee, fuelling his passion for mentorship. He now mentors with multiple organizations, speaks at data events like Data Decoded Manchester, and has published papers on Data and AI. He recently won the Nigerian NiTA award for his technical impact and mentorship
Ahmadiyya V Musayev, LLM in International Oil and Gas Law and Policy '23
My studies at Dundee strengthened my expertise in upstream petroleum regimes, contract negotiation, M&A, and international energy regulation - knowledge that has become central to my career in the oil and gas sector.
After graduating, I continued my work at Bahar Energy Operating Company Limited, where I now serve as Chief Legal and Corporate Affairs Officer. In this role, I lead the company’s legal, corporate governance, and regulatory strategy under a complex PSA regime, manage high-value contract negotiations, and oversee international corporate structuring and compliance matters.
I remain closely connected to the Dundee alumni community and I am committed to supporting the development of the next generation of energy sector professionals.
Amara Haroon, Management and International Human Resource Management MSc '23
Amara is now pursuing a PhD in Business and Management at Abertay University.
"In January 2026, I will be starting my fellowship as a part-time lecturer at Abertay. At Dundee, my group discussion tutorials really self-motivated me to do research in competing value framework.
"Meeting with international students from China, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and India taught me that there are no international boundaries when you study together."
Malindu Karunarathna, Business Analytics MSc '24
Malindu, from Sri Lanka, shares his employment success after graduation:
"I now work with a VC backed startup in London in the Micromobility industry as the Consumer Growth Manager and Analyst. I can directly attribute my success to the support I got from the careers team. I also made the most out of my academic journey graduating with a Merit.
"I know the job market is tough, but I hope this encourages students at Dundee to make the most out of their experience."
Tara Lois Mansell, Jewellery and Metal Design '20
Tara, the founder of Tara Lois Jewellery, is rapidly gaining international recognition for her distinctive design philosophy. Her work combines bold craftsmanship with emotional storytelling, a natural evolution from her University of Dundee dissertation which explored designing emotion into jewellery.
Tara’s work continues to evolve with the client in mind, from intimate bespoke commissions to conceptual pieces for institutions. For the opening of Malta’s National Museum of Contemporary Art (MICAS), Tara designed a jewellery collection reflecting the museum’s modern architecture, working closely with local craftspeople to ensure the pieces were entirely made in Malta.
Designs first developed for her DJCAD degree show contain to influence her current collections, with a similar ring now displayed at MICAS. Since 2023, Tara has exhibited at international events including Milan Jewellery Week, SIERAAD Art Fair and the Luxury Jewellery Show in Monte Carlo, earning recognition such as the Sustainable Fashion Award, the Intellectual Property Award for Innovative Design, and the Silver Award at the Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti 2024.
Tara’s work has featured in 'La Repubblica', 'Edelmetaal', and on Maltese national television. Most recently, she was honoured at Goldsmiths as part of the 2025 Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council Award Winners exhibition.
Eunjung [Olivia] Yoo, Global MBA '23
Olivia is a digital strategist and IT consultant based in South Korea, whose career has recently expanded into the world of writing. With a deep passion for storytelling and reflection, Olivia published her debut book, 구름공장: Cloud Factory, in February 2024.
The book is in Korean and not yet translated, but its themes are universal, and its message resonates far beyond language.
"I wrote this book in the hope that readers would take a moment to reflect on what it means to live with true diligence," Olivia shares. "As you read, I hope someone special comes to mind and brings a smile to your face - or perhaps you’ll find your own ‘cloud’. I believe imagination can spark happiness, and through this book, I hope to encourage readers to think more deeply and to renew their efforts in life."
Sascia Pellegrini, Art and Design PhD '23
Originally from Dundee and now based in Singapore, Sascia - a PhD alum of the University of Dundee - has announced the publication of a new book, The Amplification of Sense. Now available on Amazon, this work is the culmination of an in-depth journey through media theory, artistic practice, and embodied perception.
Shreyansh Kayastha, Public Health '21
Shreyansh often says he will be forever grateful to the University, as his master’s degree played a key role in helping him achieve nearly all of his goals. It laid the foundation for a fulfilling career, and he is now proud to be working as a Band 7 professional within NHS Scotland, where he continues to serve the community with dedication and purpose.
Yu Lin Ma, Sustainability and Renewables '22
Yu Lin works at Jinan Energy Investment Holding Group Limited Company, a major enterprise in China’s growing energy sector.
The transition from university life in Scotland to a corporate role in China has been a rewarding one. Yu Lin credits the time at Dundee as key to developing the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a professional environment.
As part of Jinan Energy Investment Holding Group, Yu Lin is contributing to projects that support regional development and energy innovation - a meaningful start to what promises to be a dynamic career.
Dieudonne Rurangirwa, Energy Law and Policy LLM '21
Dieudonne Rurangirwa, from Kigali, Rwanda, completed his course through distance learning. Already holding an LLM in Commercial Law from the University of Cape Town (2010), Dieudonne had been serving as Senior Legal Advisor to the CEO of Rwanda’s national electricity utility when he decided to deepen his expertise in the energy sector.
Supported by his employer and motivated by his passion for energy law, Dieudonne successfully balanced work, study, and family life. Today, he is married and a father of three - and he credits his Dundee degree with transforming both his professional trajectory and his family’s future.
He says, “The University and the city of Dundee have and will always be part of my best memories. I will never forget the warm welcome, the care, the learning materials, and the encouragement from everyone at CEPMLP.”
Alexis Bowden, Illustration '24
Alexis Bowden has already made a significant mark in the world of visual storytelling. She contributed her artistic talents to the magical historical comic Seachad an Eòrna (Gaelic for Beyond the Barley), which reimagines the origins of whisky through the lens of myth, nature, and cultural legacy.
Through her rich, heartfelt artwork, Alexis brings emotional resonance to the journey, her illustrations breathing life into the characters and landscapes, and illuminating the spirit of giving and togetherness that ultimately births the first whisky on Islay.
Glory Adiele, Finance and Investment '22
Glory realised she was pregnant in July 2022, whilst she was rounding up studying for her master's degree in Finance and Investment.
The news was a dream come true for Glory, and she was so excited to welcome her first child into the world. She had a baby girl in early 2023, and her birth changed Glory’s life for the better.
Glory said; “She made me a mum, and we became a family of three, my husband and I. We stayed in Dundee, and we are enjoying it here with no regrets.”
Madhavi Dubey, Leading Learning and Teaching '23
"Soon after graduating, I began working as an Associate Tutor on the MEd course - a role that brought me immense joy and purpose. Supporting bright, ambitious students from around the world, guiding them through academic challenges, especially during their dissertation journeys, and offering encouragement on future career paths was deeply rewarding.
"In parallel, I began contributing as a Research Assistant on two major collaborative projects involving the University of Dundee. Becoming actively involved in research - a long-held dream - has been transformative. These projects, centred on enhancing teaching, learning, and wellbeing, have allowed me to apply and expand my research skills, work with brilliant academics, and contribute meaningfully to the global education community.
"The past three years have been nothing short of transformational. As a mid-career educator from India, choosing to step away from a secure life and career to pursue global education at Dundee wasn’t easy. But this leap of faith - motivated by a desire to grow, contribute, and make a difference - has opened more doors than I ever imagined. And honestly, I feel like this journey has only just begun - a lifelong learner and an educator at heart."
Benedict Jackson, English and Film Studies '21
Since graduating, Benedict has been busy self-publishing books with Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, both in paperback and as e-books.
Benedict writes episode guides to one of Britain's most beloved TV shows of all time, Doctor Who. Watching the show since a young age and developed a fascination with all things Doctor Who, he was always on the lookout for reference guides and episode guides which could help further his understanding of the show he grew to love so much. Then, he decided to write one himself, and he now has four best-selling episode guidebooks on Amazon.
The books he has published so far are:
Doctor Who Episode Guide - The William Hartnell Years (2022)
Doctor Who Episode Guide - The Jon Pertwee Years (2023)
Doctor Who Episode Guide - The Sylvester McCoy Years (2024)
Doctor Who Episode Guide - The David Tennant Years (2025)
Benedict said, “I really enjoy what I do, as self-publishing and writing allows me creative freedom to express my voice and opinions on a show that means a lot to myself and my life.”
Balach Malik, Finance and Investment '21
Balach was honoured to receive the award for Best Student in the MSc Finance cohort of 2020-21.
After graduating, Balach returned to his home country, Pakistan, and began working as a Lecturer in Finance and Accounting at the University of Turbat in Kech, Balochistan. However, his desire for further knowledge and international academic exposure continued to grow. The solid academic foundation laid during his time at the University of Dundee gave him the confidence and preparation he needed to pursue a PhD.
In 2024, Balach was awarded the prestigious College of Social Sciences PhD Scholarship by the University of Glasgow, where he is currently undertaking doctoral research in Finance and Accounting. Balach said, “My journey from Dundee to Glasgow is not just academic, it's deeply personal. It was my experience at the University of Dundee that first sparked my love for Scotland and set me on this path of lifelong learning.”
Zahirul Jewel, Accountancy and Finance '22
Zahirul has recently been promoted to Senior Finance Assistant - Finance Advice and Support at the University of St Andrews. He oversees the financial and administrative responsibilities associated with the University's Doctoral Training Grant. In addition, he has been appointed as a Marker of Exams for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland.
Last year, he successfully completed his accountancy examinations and was admitted as a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.
Zahirul said, “I wish to dedicate this achievement to Professor William Nixon, Senior Fellow in Accounting and Finance at the School of Business, whom I regard as one of my esteemed mentors. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping my professional development.”
Shailesh Kamble, Human Anatomy '24
"The first day of university is still fresh in my mind, seeing the cadavers, prosections, and bones. I utilised my time and resources and did full-body dissections.
"I am grateful to my professors, Dr Clare Lamb, Dr Katherine Carr, Dr Manah Changmai, and Dr Luke Reid for all the knowledge they provided me which helped me to get a merit.
"Although wishing to stay in the department in my role as an anatomy tutor, destiny had different plans. I was offered the role of anatomy tutor at UCL, where I pursued my passion for teaching, and now I am working as a Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Buckingham.
"Now, writing this article, I am grateful to the University of Dundee, which helped me to carry on with such a beautiful journey."
Beatrice Preti, Medical Education '23
"I recently started a PhD in Health Professions Education through Maastricht University, where I am building on my master's work on moral distress to study impression management and moral distress in medical education."
Nicole Montgomery, English and German '20, International Marketing and Finance '24
"Earlier this year, I published my debut novel under the pen name Nicole Czarnojan. The book, titled Gen Z Girl is set in Dundee and was heavily inspired by my time at the University as an English with German undergraduate.
"While I've only published the eBook, I'm awaiting the hardcover/paperback cover for the paper versions being completed by the book cover designer."
Do you have an update you'd like to share with our alumni community? A new job, a life update, or something else? It could be the chance to reconnect with long-lost friends - or find others on a similar path since leaving Dundee.