Assoc. Prof. Dr. Syra Shakir | Social Sciences | Best Researcher Award
Leeds Trinity University | United Kingdom
Author Profile
🌱 Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Syra Shakir's educational journey is marked by her deep commitment to social justice and equity. After earning her BA in Arabic Studies from Leeds University, she pursued a Master’s in Social Work at Bradford University, laying the groundwork for her passion for supporting diverse communities. Her subsequent certifications in counseling and teaching reflect her dedication to lifelong learning and fostering inclusive educational environments. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctorate of Education at Sheffield Hallam University to further advance her expertise.
🌟 Professional Endeavors
Dr. Shakir has built an illustrious career at Leeds Trinity University, where she holds the role of Associate Professor in Learning and Teaching. Her responsibilities extend to strategic leadership in race equity, decolonisation, and anti-racist pedagogy. Beyond academia, her impactful workshops on race equity and anti-racist practices have been delivered to diverse institutions across the UK and internationally, ranging from universities to law enforcement agencies. Her dynamic leadership includes roles within the Race Equality Charter team and as Chair of the BAME staff network for seven years.
💡 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Shakir’s scholarly contributions address critical issues like co-creation, curriculum decolonisation, and anti-racist practices. She has authored peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and creative pieces, including poetry on race equity. As the principal investigator for significant projects funded by TASO and other organizations, she leads research on improving outcomes for marginalized students. Her innovative use of film and debate in training programs showcases her unique approach to challenging conversations around race and equity.
🏆 Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Shakir’s work has garnered prestigious awards, including the What Uni Diversity and Inclusion Award in 2021 and recognition from Advance HE through the Race Equality Charter. She was nominated for the National Teaching Fellowship in 2024 and Outstanding Woman for Impact in Academia in 2023. Her initiatives have also received funding for transformative projects supporting at-risk students from Black, Asian, and Minority Communities.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Through her leadership and advocacy, Dr. Shakir has significantly influenced institutional policies and practices. Her anti-racist CPD workshops have inspired repeated bookings, reflecting their profound impact on participants. As a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, she continues to elevate conversations around equity, belonging, and student success.
✨ Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Shakir’s commitment to creating inclusive educational environments and addressing systemic inequalities ensures her enduring legacy. Her ongoing work on securing the Race Equality Charter’s silver award and her innovative research projects signal a future of continued advocacy and transformative change. With her authenticity, engaging communication style, and unwavering dedication, she remains a beacon of hope for equitable education.
Publications
📄Safe Spaces to Discuss Wicked Problems: A Staff and Student Co-Creation Project on Addressing the Awarding Gap
Author: Syra Shakir (ORCID)
Journal: Social Sciences (Soc. Sci.)
Year: 2024
📄The Realities of Racism Through Student Narratives: Learning from a Higher Education Co-Creation Project
Contributors: Syra Shakir, Asiya Siddiquee
Format: Book Chapter
Year: 2025
📄No End and No Beginning; Race Equity in Higher Education
Author: Syra Shakir
Journal: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal
Year: 2024