First class celebrations
Sumi, now 23, was referred to Shooting Star Children’s Hospices aged eight. Sumi has a progressive neuromuscular condition called muscular dystrophy. She and her family went on to be supported by us until she transitioned into adult services earlier this year. 2024 continued to be a momentous year, as this summer, Sumi graduated Westminster University with a first-class honours degree in Television Production. Sumi kindly took time to share her university experience and how Shooting Star supported her in such an amazing achievement.
Huge congratulations on your graduation – can you tell us more about your degree?
“Initially I chose to study Media, Communications and Cultural Studies at Goldsmiths University, but after a year disrupted by industrial action and strikes, I began to reassess my future. I quickly realised that the course wasn’t going to challenge me as I had hoped, nor did it align with where I envisioned myself in five years. The course dynamics turned out to be quite different from what I had anticipated when I applied.
“So after much consideration, I ultimately chose to pursue Television Production, a course that aligns perfectly with my dream of producing my own Netflix original series. I’ve always had a creative spark within me and I’m driven by the desire to leave a lasting legacy – a mark on this planet that reflects my segment of life.”
What was your biggest challenge at university and what have you been most proud of?
“My biggest challenge at university was ensuring my care needs were met. For the first three months, I relied on an agency that had been providing care prior to my move to uni, but their reliability was unsatisfactory. So we switched to another agency, which unfortunately left me mentally traumatised. After extensive discussions with my local authority and CCG team, I was finally granted A personal Health Budget, allowing me to take control of my own care. However, this meant that midway through my first year, I had to navigate the responsibilities of being an employer, which added significant stress! And that was just half of my struggles! I also had to fight to secure essential equipment in my Student Halls, such as a bed and hoist.
“What I’m most proud of is overcoming all these obstacles, especially when times felt impossible and still achieving a first class honours degree – a goal I set my territory on from the very beginning.”
What did it feel like when you first graduated?
“It felt extraordinary to receive so much honour and respect for all the hard work. It made me realise how much value a degree holds.”
Did Shooting Star help you to achieve your goals at university?
“Yes, every step of the way, Christine, Transition Co-ordinator (who retired this year), was by my side and had my back through every fight. I’m also really grateful for the Shooting Star Youth Group during the pandemic. When I was coming towards the end of my time at college, Shooting Star really helped bring light through the darkness and supported me with all aspects of my life before I turned 21.”
What do you hope to achieve now with your degree?
“Now that I have completed university, I’m going to look for employment in the industry and am currently working on my script for Neflix.”
A huge congratulations to Sumi from us all at Shooting Star! The support we are able to provide to young people transitioning from our care into adult services is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters – please consider donating today.
