Wahab A Bakr

About Me

Abdulwahab

Wahab A Bakr

Literature Student Researcher Kurdistan Region

Hello, and welcome! I'm a passionate student of English Literature from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. After earning my undergraduate degree from Soran University, I worked in the private sector while preparing for the next step in my academic journey.

I'm now pursuing an MA in English Literature at Northumbria University in the UK, focusing on the power of literature to explore themes like identity, memory, and resistance. My long-term goal is to return home and contribute to Kurdish academia as a university lecturer and literary researcher.

Education

Soran University
Northumbria University

Research Focus

Identity, Memory
& Resistance

Goal

Kurdish Literary
Scholarship

Teaching

Academic Journey

As a postgraduate student of English Literature at Northumbria University, my academic interests focus on literature, cultural identity, and the Kurdish struggle. I aspire to become a university lecturer and contribute to Kurdish literary scholarship through teaching and research.

Latest Research

Exploring the intersection of Kurdish identity and British colonial history through literary analysis.

View Research

My Mission

Through this website, I share my academic work, literary reflections, and ongoing projects that speak to both my personal and cultural journey, contributing to the preservation and advancement of Kurdish literary heritage.

Teaching Experience

While volunteering at the Career Development Center (CDC), I taught both English and Turkish language courses, helping students improve their language skills through interactive lessons and practical communication exercises.

Interactive Learning

Engaging students through interactive lessons, group discussions, and practical exercises that enhance language retention and communication confidence.

Student Success

Helping students achieve their language learning goals through personalized instruction, regular assessments, and continuous support throughout their journey.

Academic Presentation

Conference Presentation

Sharing research insights and engaging with the academic community

Academic Excellence

Presenting at Soran University Conference

I actively participated in the Second Student Conference of Soran University, where I presented my academic work and engaged in meaningful discussions with fellow students and faculty members.

Research Skills

Presentation

This experience enhanced my research and presentation skills, deepened my understanding of academic inquiry, and allowed me to contribute to the intellectual community of the university.

"It strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in academia and literary research, connecting theory with meaningful dialogue."

Conference Highlights

Behind-the-scenes moments and academic interactions

Literary Reflections

A journey through research, discovery, and academic excellence

2016 Research Presentation

Critical Analysis on Colonialism & Imperialism

During my undergraduate studies in the English Department, I presented a research paper titled "A Critical Analysis of Literature around the Political, Economic, and Social Impacts of Colonialism and Imperialism: The Case of India and Kurdistan."

This project was a turning point in my academic journey. It opened my eyes to the powerful intersection between history and literature; how historical forces shape cultural narratives, and how literature becomes a site of resistance, reclamation, and reimagination of identity.

Through comparative analysis, I explored how writers from colonized nations articulate the trauma of occupation and assert cultural agency through storytelling. The experience deepened my interest in postcolonial studies and laid the foundation for my future research ambitions.

"I would like to thank Soran University for providing an academic environment that encouraged critical thinking, nurtured my intellectual curiosity, and supported my early steps into literary research."

Presenting Research
2023 Conference Volunteering

From Sharing Ideas to Shaping Experiences

While volunteering at the Career Development Center (CDC), I had the opportunity to support the team in organizing the 9th Student Conference. It brought back meaningful memories of the 2nd Student Conference in May 2016, where I had the chance to present my research paper as a student.

Back then, I was fully immersed in the excitement of presenting my academic work. But in 2023, my role shifted—I was now behind the scenes, helping to streamline the process, coordinate logistics, and ensure everything ran smoothly for the participants and speakers.

Being involved in both sides of the experience; first as a presenter, later as an organizer—was incredibly rewarding. It gave me a fuller perspective on how much effort goes into creating meaningful academic spaces, and how powerful volunteering can be in supporting student success.

This dual perspective—from presenter to organizer—highlighted the collaborative nature of academic growth and the importance of giving back to the academic community.

Volunteering at Conference

Workshops & Professional Development

2015 Development Program

Soran University Career Development Center

In 2015, I attended two workshops on Postgraduate Success and Interpersonal Skills, organized by the Career Development Center (CDC) at Soran University. These workshops provided valuable insights into navigating the challenges of postgraduate studies and professional life. They focused on enhancing critical soft skills such as effective communication, leadership, and networking.

Professional Experience & Workshops

2017 Business Leadership

Boombeene Company

During my time at Boombeene Company in 2017, I contributed to company growth and represented it in professional settings. I shared our business strategies in workshops and programs, strengthening my communication and public speaking skills.

Alumni Recognition

Honored as a Successful Alumni by the Presidency of Soran University (2018)

In 2018, I was honored to be invited by Soran University as an example of a successful alumnus. Speaking before the university's faculty and students, I shared my journey, emphasizing the importance of dedication, perseverance, and continuous learning. It was a humbling experience to give back to the institution that played a key role in shaping my path. I encouraged students to embrace challenges and strive for their dreams, reminding them of the power of education in creating change. I am forever grateful to Soran University for this recognition and the opportunity to contribute to the next generation of leaders.

Alumni Recognition

Delivering a Seminar on Career Success

2016 Career Guidance

Soran University

"How to Find a Job After Graduation"

In 2016, Soran University invited me to deliver a seminar on "How to Find a Job After Graduation". In this session, I discussed the challenges recent graduates face, how to approach the job market, and key strategies for career success, including networking and personal branding. This opportunity allowed me to share valuable insights with students, helping them navigate their professional journeys with confidence. It also refined my presentation and public speaking skills.

Career Guidance Public Speaking Networking
Seminar Presentation
Audience at Seminar

A Humbling Visit to the Peshmerga

2015 Frontline Visit

Meeting Heroes in Action

In 2015, during my undergraduate studies, I had the honor of visiting the Peshmerga fighters. That year, ISIS — also known as the Islamic State — was at the height of its power, controlling large areas of Iraq and Syria and spreading terror through unspeakable violence and human rights atrocities.

Meeting the Peshmerga on the front lines of this brutal conflict was a humbling experience. I witnessed not just soldiers, but heroes — standing firm against tyranny, risking everything for the safety and dignity of their people. Their bravery, discipline, and unwavering resolve left a deep and lasting mark on me.

"In the face of darkness, they were a shield. In the face of fear, they stood tall. I will forever carry the memory of their sacrifice and strength — a reminder of what true courage looks like, and of the price paid to protect freedom."

Peshmerga Visit 1
Peshmerga Visit 2

Academic Volunteering & Growth

After seven years of overcoming financial challenges and working hard to save for my studies abroad, I returned to academia in 2023, where I experienced significant personal growth and development. From January 2023 to October 2024, I volunteered in an academic environment to re-engage with university life, interact with faculty and students, and prepare for the next stage of my journey.

Volunteering Photo 1
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During this time, I also supported and guided students in preparation for the 9th Student Conference—an event where I had once presented my own undergraduate research paper. This time, however, I moved beyond sharing ideas to helping shape others' academic experiences. This commitment not only enriched my perspective but also prepared me in advance to continue my education, leading to my successful enrolment in the MA English Literature program at Northumbria University in Newcastle.

Let's Connect

Connect with me – let's bridge ideas with innovation.

Get In Touch

Phone

+964 750 4268433

Location

Kurdistan Region, Iraq