We are absolutely delighted to share that our CEO, Aisha Malik, has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Reading, recognising her outstanding contribution to education, community development and the empowerment of ethnic minority, migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women.
The award was presented during the University’s graduation ceremonies and celebrates Aisha’s more than 15 years of leadership at Reading Community Learning Centre (RCLC), where she has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers to education, promoting equality and creating opportunities for women to thrive.
Under Aisha’s leadership, RCLC has grown into a trusted, women-only charity supporting hundreds of women each year through English language learning, digital skills, wellbeing programmes, information, advice and guidance, volunteering opportunities and an Ofsted-registered crèche. Her commitment to kindness, inclusion and community has transformed the lives of thousands of women and their families across Reading.
Speaking after receiving the award, Aisha said:
“I am truly honoured, humbled and immensely grateful to receive this Honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Reading. It was an incredibly emotional day, and I accept this honour not for myself alone, but on behalf of every woman who has walked through our doors with courage, determination and hope.
This recognition belongs to our learners, staff, volunteers, trustees, partners, family and friends who have supported our journey. Every day I have the privilege of witnessing women move from isolation and uncertainty to confidence, independence and opportunity. That is the power of education. That is the power of kindness. That is the power of community.”
Everyone at RCLC is enormously proud of this well-deserved recognition. While the award bears Aisha’s name, it also celebrates the collective achievements of our learners, volunteers, staff, trustees and partners who work together every day to build a more inclusive, compassionate and welcoming community.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the University of Reading, the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice Chancellors, University Council and everyone involved in awarding this prestigious honour and to Prof Sally Lloyd Evans for the powerful citation. We are also grateful to Aisha’s family and friends for their constant love and encouragement, and to all those who have supported her throughout her career.
Reflecting on the award, Aisha added:
“I pray that Allah gives me the strength, wisdom and humility to continue serving others, supporting women to overcome barriers, realise their potential and build brighter futures. This honour inspires me to continue this important work with even greater determination and compassion, Insha’Allah.”
This honour strengthens our commitment to ensuring that every woman has the opportunity not simply to survive, but to thrive.
Support Our Work
If you would like to help us continue supporting ethnic minority, migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women to learn, grow and build brighter futures, please consider making a donation.
Donate today: https://rclc.org.uk/donate/
Together, we can continue changing lives through the power of education, kindness and community. 💙
