No job for a lady?....try telling that to this groundbreaker
It might not be everyone's idea of a dream job but the country's only female Muslim embalmer is trying to encourage more women into the profession.
Nazia Saleem (28), of Heron Street, Werneth, adores her job and has been chosen as one of the top-100 role models in a major national equality and diversity campaign. The mother of four who works for various Muslim funeral services in Oldham and Bradford is the only female in the UK, possibly the world, practising the skill of Muslim embalming.
Mrs Saleem decided to go into the profession when she first learned about it while studying an NVQ in pharmacy. She explained: "My husband is a funeral director so it was easier for me to go into this job. The training is long and difficult as you have to work hard and be very dedicated, which is difficult when perceptions of those around you can be quite negative. As a practicing Muslim, I understand the religious beliefs of this culture and I incorporate those beliefs into my work".
In recognition of her achievements in this male-dominated career, and in an effort to open up the profession to young people, the GERI (Gender, Equality, Race Inclusion Project) which is managed by Positive Steps Oldham, has selected Mrs Saleem as one of its 100 career role models nationwide.
For more information on the GERI Project, contact Kashif Ashraf on 0161 621 9300.
