Former Student gives back to the school that helped shape her life

Years ago, Rubena walked through the school's doors as a young person who had to learn differently. Like many pupils in alternative education, she experienced what it felt like to be underestimated and judged by circumstances rather than potential. Today, she has come full circle, using her lived experience to help shape opportunities for the next generation.

"I know what it feels like to think people have already decided what your future will look like," said Rubena. "That's why becoming a governor means so much to me. I want every young person to know that where you start in life doesn't determine where you can go."

Since leaving school, Rubena has built a successful career in one of the UK's most male-dominated industries. She founded Jacksons MW Ltd, an independent BMW specialist garage that has served thousands of customers over the past eight years, before establishing Jacksons MW Academy CIC a social enterprise that uses practical vehicle maintenance to build confidence, independence and essential life skills for women and young people.

However, despite her achievements, Rubena says one of her greatest accomplishments is returning to the school that once supported her.

"I've won awards and built successful businesses, but becoming a governor at the very PRU I attended is something deeply personal. It's an opportunity to give back to a place that played an important part in my journey and to help create opportunities for young people who may be facing challenges similar to those I once faced."

Rubena is passionate about ensuring every young person feels seen, valued and capable of achieving their ambitions. Through her role as a governor, she hopes to encourage pupils to believe in themselves, embrace their strengths and understand that there is no single path to success.

Alongside her governance role, Rubena continues to work across Oldham, delivering practical vehicle maintenance workshops that have supported more than 150 women and 15 young people. Her Academy partners with schools, colleges and community organisations to provide inclusive, hands on learning that builds confidence alongside practical skills.

Her message to young people is simple:

"Never let anyone else decide what you're capable of. Everyone's journey is different, and success isn't measured by where you begin it's measured by the determination to keep going. If my story encourages just one young person to believe in themselves, then every challenge I've faced has been worth it."

Current Headteacher at the PRU Emmett Patel said “We are incredibly proud of our school and all of our current and former pupil’s achievements. Rubena’s story inspires us all and we are very lucky to have her on our governing board, to help shape and develop our school with first hand knowledge of what it is like to be a pupil. Rubena is also offering fantastic, direct work with our pupils around business, training and work placement opportunities for them locally.”

PRU staff member Diane Saxon who worked with Rubena as a pupil reports that, “Rubena has spent a considerable amount of time at our school and worked very hard to progress. From Year 7 to now Rubena has completely transformed her life and myself, and all of our staff are very proud of everything she has achieved and how she is giving back to our school community”.