A Bradford-born lawyer who was the first person in his family to attend university is using his success to encourage other young people to pursue ambitious careers.
Adam Hussain, who now runs a Aldwych Legal operating across the UK and Qatar, said he wants to show students from Bradford that their background should not define their future.
Mr Hussain, who is also studying for a PhD and employs 11 people through his business, now spends much of his time mentoring aspiring lawyers and students hoping to enter professional careers.
From Bradford to an international legal career
After leaving Bradford, Mr Hussain travelled to Australia to complete a law degree before returning to the UK to undertake a master's degree at King's College London and complete his barrister training.
He later established a legal practice that began as a community-focused initiative during the Covid pandemic.
Initially operating on a pro bono basis, he says the firm aimed to help vulnerable people, including some in Bradford, who were facing issues involving local authorities and public bodies but could not afford legal representation.
What started as a small practice has since grown significantly, with the business now operating internationally.
'I was the first in my family to go to university'
Despite his success, Mr Hussain said his route into the legal profession was not always straightforward.
Mr Hussain said: "I was the first in my family to go to university and that meant I didn't necessarily have the same sense of direction that some of my peers had.
"A lot of my colleagues and barristers come from families where their parents are degree educated and, in some cases, educated at Oxford or Cambridge."
Mr Hussain said: "I remember in some of my early interviews people seemed surprised when I said I wanted to become a barrister.
"Sometimes there were assumptions made because of where I came from or what my family background was, but it just goes to show that you can still push forward and achieve those goals."
He added: "If you're the first in your family to go to university or pursuing a professional career, you may have a few more hurdles to overcome, but that shouldn't stop you aiming high."
Challenging perceptions of Bradford
Mr Hussain said he has encountered negative stereotypes about Bradford throughout his education and career, both in the UK and overseas.
He said: "Even when I was studying in Australia, people would hear my accent and immediately know I was from England.
"When I told them I was from Bradford, some people would have something negative to say."
Mr Hussain added: "I've always tried my level best to challenge those stereotypes because there are so many talented people from Bradford and so many positive stories that don't always get told.
"There are fantastic opportunities available for young people from Bradford... never be ashamed of where you've come from."
Giving back to the next generation
Alongside his legal work, Mr Hussain mentors students and aspiring lawyers, offering advice to those hoping to enter the profession.
He said: "I do a lot of mentoring now.
"It can be incredibly difficult to get into professions like law if you don't have family connections or people around you who have already gone down that path.
"If there are students or aspiring professionals who want some advice, support or simply someone to answer questions, I'm always happy to help.
Mr Hussain added: "I'd like people to know that there are avenues of support available and that careers in law, business and other professional services are achievable, regardless of where you started."
Why Bradford will always be home
Although his career has taken him around the world, Mr Hussain said Bradford remains at the heart of his life.
His parents still live in the same family home where he grew up and, whenever possible, he makes the journey back to the district.
Mr Hussain said: "My parents have lived in the same house for more than 20 years and they've never wanted to leave Bradford.
"Whenever I come back, I appreciate the people and the support I've had from the city.
"There's a friendliness and warmth that you don't always find elsewhere."
He said: "My office may be in London and my work may take me around the world, but Bradford will always be home.
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