Saima Ashraf MBE became the DPA’s Vice President (Staff) in April 2025, having graduated from Lancaster University with a BA (Hons) in Accounting & Finance in 2005. Saima was asked to return as an alumni to the Lancaster University Management School and share her journey of becoming England’s only registered blind Chartered Public Finance Accountant, having achieved her qualification in 2013.

Have a listen on the video below to hear more about the challenges and barriers Saima has overcome to go on to receive an MBE in King Charles Birthday honours in June 2024. ∎