At Challenge Works, Ikbal is a project management apprentice who supports and liaises with the Operations team, Comms team and different programme teams.

Working across teams has enabled him to aid different programmes and challenges like the Ofwat Innovation Fund and Toyota Mobility Foundation. 

Before joining Nesta, Ikbal worked for the Home Office as an executive officer, managing and assessing applications and supporting documentation. Conducted interviews for visa applicants. Post Covid-19, Ikbal worked as a welfare officer and ensured the well-being of asylum service users was maintained. This involved scheduling medical visits, providing transportation, doing routine welfare checks to ascertain their wellbeing, and ensuring they were properly taken care of while their case was pending.

Outside of work, Ikbal will be on the plane embracing different cultures and exploring new things to do or will be hands-deep in a popcorn bucket critically reviewing new and classic movies and TV shows. Ikbal also likes to watch and participate in combat sports. 

Follow Ikbal on LinkedIn.