Our Talent - Saanwal

What did you study?

I graduated with a 1st class degree in financial economics from the University of Leicester. But before that, I spent eight years studying to be a religious scholar, six years in the UK, and two years in South Africa.

What made you change track?

Part of my specialism whilst studying in South Africa was Islamic finance. As part of that process, I consulted for a range of financial institutions, such as the First National Bank. I also advised private clients. As such, it wasn’t so much a change of track, as a continuation.

What else of note would you say you gained from that experience?

I dealt with a number of domestic abuse cases, and authored research papers which were industry-reviewed.

Do you feel your degree at Leicester prepared you for the practicalities of work?

Very much so. I was the Vice-President of the University Economics Society. That gave me a great deal of confidence and knowledge, both of which I was able to use to assist farmers in the Punjab province of Pakistan.

What have you done since graduating?

I worked as a financial services consultant at Mazars, and am currently at BBS & Co., a management consultancy firm.

What has life taught you so far?

That I can be held back only by the extent of my ambition, and the limitations I put upon myself.  And that my disability, whilst visible and apparent, doesn’t affect the way I deal with clients and situations.