Shafaat Saleem

In 2021, I received a full merit-based scholarship from the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), London, to do my MSc in International Social and Public Policy with a subject specialisation in development at the London School of Economics (LSE). I chose LSE for various reasons, but most importantly for its global recognition in policy studies. The programme’s focused on how different actors such as civil society organisations, development agencies, local communities and governments engage in policies for social development. In this way, it allowed me to pursue my interest at the intersection of community, development and policy, particularly in faith communities around the world. 

Studying at the heart of London, I spent one year attending world-class seminars and interacting with intellectuals from around the world, which nurtured my academic, professional and interpersonal skills. My classroom experiences were shaped by not just theoretical teachings but also first-hand stories of students who had previously worked in rural development, policymaking, health provision, educational development, diplomacy, etc. There is no exaggeration in saying that these holistic experiences prepared me for international platforms and to be confident in imparting knowledge for both academic and non-academic audiences. This is evident in several blogs and articles I have written and conference presentations I have done since 2021. I also volunteered with leading research institutes like The Childhood Trust, London and Aga Khan Foundation, and eventually started working at the LSE’s Department of Management to support their academic programmes. Hence, LSE prepared me for a diversity of career pathways and strengthened my foundations to excel wherever I go.  

For my MSc dissertation at the LSE, I studied the work of Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Pakistan. My MSc dissertation eventually inspired my PhD research project. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Anthropology at the Nova University of Lisbon. My doctoral research project explores the relationship between religion and development as perceived and practised by the AKDN, and how that influences the global debates on religion and development policies. LSE equipped me with the interdisciplinary research tools, methodologies and ethics that I now apply in my everyday work. It also shaped my identity, career path, and opened a world of opportunities. Last but not least, my connection with the LSE is lifelong – it has provided me with a vast support network, friends from all over the world, and a sense of belonging with London – something I will cherish for years to come.