Former Syrian TV presenter who sought refuge in West Midlands to inspire others in new teaching career

Mazen Salmou, who was a journalist in Syria but now lives in Bromsgrove, has completed a postgraduate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Worcester and is set to graduate in a ceremony at Worcester Cathedral this week.

While studying at the university, Mazen built a huge online following by offering advice on how education and community engagement can lead to success. 

Looking forward to the future in his new career, Mazen said: "I loved my course. I loved the way it combined practical skills and theory, and I’ve learned a lot. My tutors were not only highly knowledgeable, but also very kind and supportive as well. My time was unforgettable, I’ve made a lot of really great friends, and I had a brilliant experience.

“I want to use my education and my experiences to give lessons in schools and colleges, and lectures in universities. I believe through interviews and reports you can help people build their confidence, as well as their social and communication skills.

"I love to support others and lift them up, so I created this channel to motivate people to pursue education, and to improve their social and communication skills through voluntary work and promoting community awareness. Every day I receive messages from people thanking me, and when they tell me I am a role model for them it brings a tear to my eye.”

But before he takes to the classroom, Mazen has started a PhD in Journalism and Media and hopes to start his own teaching business.  

He added: “I’m also hoping to launch my own training course on how to improve English vocabulary skills in young people through social media and content creation.”