������Ƶ

A dedicated legal eagle who overcame health and family issues while studying has celebrated her graduation from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

Bibusa Musukwa was in and out of hospital undergoing neurological tests after twice suffering with facial paralysis condition Bell’s Palsy, she had to deal with a family bereavement and had her laptop stolen, which contained her dissertation, all whilst studying for a master’s in law.

But these setbacks didn’t deter determined Bibusa. In fact, they only spurred her on to complete her degree.

The 22-year-old, from Leicester, said: “My master’s degree was a really busy and stressful time and a lot of people said that I should focus on my health and come back to my studies a year down the line.

“However, I knew that if I took some time out I wouldn’t come back and I am so happy that I carried on and didn’t give up. I am delighted to have graduated this week with a Merit and I would like to thank my family for being so supportive and encouraging throughout the whole process. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Throughout her degree, Bibusa was an active volunteer at Hope for Justice in Manchester and supported the organisation as often as she could by attending meetings, working various events and spreading the word about the work that they do.

The former Countesthorpe Leysland Community College student said: “I’ve always wanted to help other people and Hope for Justice really resonated with me and what they stand for.

“One of my modules was on human trafficking and modern-day slavery so it was helpful going along to Hope for Justice as a lot of what I learnt volunteering really helped me in certain modules and gave me some background knowledge that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”

Now Bibusa is looking ahead to the future and is hoping to pursue a career in advocacy and remain active in supporting various charities as and when she can.