Public Speaking
Public speaking is more than an activity for me; it’s an expression of truth, lived experience, and the will to empower others.
Each of my talks is grounded in both personal history and professional insight, speaking to the complexity of mental health, trauma, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward personal freedom.
I believe it’s essential to keep speaking about mental health and trauma—because awareness is the first step toward healing. When we talk openly, we begin to break the silence, reduce shame, and create space for real solutions. My talks are not just about naming the pain—but also about revealing the possibilities: the mindset shifts, the tools, and the hope that allow people to overcome obstacles, think differently, and move toward the life they dream of.
Guest Lecture Series – Leicester College
Location: Leicester College, Leicester
I was invited as a guest speaker at Leicester College to deliver a series of talks focused on student well-being and mental resilience.
Theme: Well-Being Beyond Awareness Weeks
The sessions were structured to guide students—and their teachers—through a journey of self-awareness and emotional insight. The first lecture centred on the power of mindset, exploring how thoughts shape emotions, behaviour, and long-term mental health.
We then explored key aspects of mental well-being, including:
The impact of childhood trauma and stress on brain development and learning
Recognising signs of emotional distress early on
Building resilience through supportive environments
How schools and educators can play a pivotal role in safeguarding emotional health
Real-Life Case Study
The session culminated in a case study discussion, based on a real scenario from the student audience. One student shared their personal experience of feeling overwhelmed and unsupported. We explored how early recognition and small, compassionate interventions from staff could have changed their journey—and what can be done differently now.
Outcome
The talk sparked deep conversations among staff and students, reinforcing the idea that mental health support must extend beyond designated awareness weeks. It also opened the door to continued collaboration between educators and mental health professionals to build more emotionally intelligent, responsive environments in schools.
TEDxTamworth – "Surviving War and Rebellion: A Run for Freedom"
Location: Tamworth Assembly Rooms
This talk shares my personal journey from growing up in Baghdad under oppressive conditions to building a new life in Sweden. I spoke openly about the emotional and physical traumas I experienced, and how the simple dream of being able to run freely symbolised my pursuit of autonomy and healing.
The presentation has resonated widely for its authenticity and honesty, shedding light on how even small personal freedoms can have transformative meaning. It also highlights the importance of inner strength, identity, and reclaiming power from past experiences.
There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder” Book Launch
Location: The Abbey Centre, Westminster, London
I was honoured to speak at the official launch of There’s a Monkey on Your Shoulder—a beautifully written and insightful children’s book by Tana Macpherson Smith. The book offers a powerful and accessible way to help young people understand their emotions, develop self-awareness, and begin important conversations around mental health.
As a GP, trauma expert, and a fellow in child and adolescent mental health, I was invited to share my professional perspective on the emotional challenges young people face—and how books like this can play a vital role in early intervention, education, and emotional resilience.
Another special honour was having my professional review featured on the back cover of the book—something I’m deeply proud of, as it reflects my commitment to supporting youth mental health through both clinical work and community engagement.
Final Fellowship Presentation – Mental Health for Children and Young Adults
Institution: North West London
As part of completing my Mid-Career Fellowship (SPIN) in Mental Health for Children and Young Adults, I delivered a final presentation addressing critical gaps within the current system of care. My work focused on identifying and addressing three key issues:
Lack of public awareness around mental health and available services
Uncertainty in primary care regarding referral processes and outcomes
Poor communication between primary and secondary care services
Throughout the fellowship, I collaborated with a range of organizations and stakeholders, exploring root causes, proposing solutions, and beginning to implement change through joint efforts.
During this time, I held regular meetings with local services, schools, and healthcare providers—contributing to several meaningful improvements, including clearer referral pathways, greater transparency, and more consistent communication between service levels.
A key part of my work involved surveying 31 young people to better understand their experiences, challenges, and needs. This led to wider discussions on the role of digital platforms in supporting mental health access and navigation.
As a result, I began a collaborative project with Imperial College to co-design a new digital interface focused on enhancing social support for young people. While I completed my fellowship before the full implementation of this initiative, I am proud to have laid the groundwork for ongoing innovation in this space.