Mohammed Sami
BA (Hons) Fine Art
A massive congratulations are for one of our alumni Mohammed Sami, who is a graduate from the Belfast School of Art, as his solo art exhibition ‘After the Storm’ has been nominated for the Turner Prize 2025 Award!
Known for his large-scale paintings which explore memory and conflict, Mohammed's paintings contain haunted, dreamlike scenes. Devoid of people, he paints empty landscapes, interiors and items of furniture that reference conflict whilst encouraging viewers to search for their own meaning.
The Turner Prize is an annual award presented to a British artist for an outstanding exhibition or presentation of their work, typically in the previous year. It is one of the most prestigious honours in the art world and aims to promote public debate around contemporary British art.
Congratulations to Mohammed once again, everyone at Ulster University is immensely proud of all your incredible work and we wish you the very best of luck!
Natasha Kirke
BSc Hons International Travel and Tourism Management
Natasha Kirke began working as a waitress while studying at Ulster University. Working this job ended up helping Natasha build her confidence and revealed a genuine passion for hospitality.
Over the past nine years, Natasha has gained experience across several areas of the industry, including food and beverage, housekeeping, and reception. She consistently found fulfilment in creating positive experiences for guests and customers alike.
The COVID-19 lockdown reaffirmed her love for the sector, prompting her to pursue a degree in International Travel and Tourism at Ulster University. While studying, she worked at Magherabuoy House Hotel, where she progressed from receptionist to assistant general manager.
Natasha is now general manager at Bank Apartments and Safehouse Café Bar in Portrush, all while continuing her studies through an Executive MBA at Ulster University. In this position, she embraces the dynamic nature of hospitality, balancing responsibilities ranging from HR and marketing to hands-on support in daily operations.
Natasha’s story highlights the powerful role that self-belief and education can play in unlocking career opportunities and realising personal potential within the hospitality industry.
Adeel Awan
MSc International Business with Data Analytics
Ulster University alumni Adeel Ahmed is making waves with his company and colleagues in contributing to groundbreaking solution to assist individuals with physical disabilities in living more independent lives.
Holding a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Adeel furthered his studies at Ulster University, where his passion for improving the lives of individuals with physical disabilities truly took shape. During his time, Adeel committed himself to developing accessible technologies that remove barriers and promote independence. His dedication to inclusivity has driven impactful innovations and earned international recognition.
In addition to his innovative work, Adeel has voluntarily trained over 700 individuals through a Mass IT Training Programme in collaboration with one of Pakistan’s leading welfare trusts. Many of his former students have since gone on to secure positions at some of the country’s largest firms, where they are now delivering high-quality software solutions and making valuable contributions to the technology sector.
Congratulations on all your outstanding work Adeel!
Dawn Harbinson
BSc Hons in Applied Psychology and PHD in Psychology
Ulster University graduate Dawn Harbinson was diagnosed with left hemiplegia at 18 months old and faced significant physical challenges from an early age. Despite delayed motor development, multiple surgeries, and extended periods away from school, Dawn was determined not to let early setbacks define her future.
Once completing her PhD at Ulster University, Dawn’s academic and professional journey reflects remarkable resilience and determination, especially in the face of an employment landscape where only 36% of disabled people in Northern Ireland are in work, compared to 80% of non-disabled people (Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, 2022).
Dawn has recently set up a social venture to provide accessible and affordable coaching, mentoring, education, and training for others. Her mission is to empower individuals to become more active in making the changes they want in order to get more from life. This will be achieved by providing a range of coaching and mentoring services at an accessible cost.
Congratulations on all your amazing work Dawn!
