Haya Khan - Communication graduate
Haya's BA in Communication gave her the tools to help grow her business.
Key facts
Career: Founder and Director of Masala Bazaar/Masala Scents
Programme: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws
Subjects: Communication
“As an entrepreneur, my passion for culture and advocacy creates a vibrant space where creativity thrives, particularly within marginalised people of colour and South Asian communities.
“My responsibilities range from crafting candles, conducting scent workshops, collaborating with artisans in Pakistan to highlight their specialities, and partnering with New Zealand creatives to promote our cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
“My Communication major has equipped me with the skills to effectively market my business without relying on external resources. I learn best through concepts so I can develop and implement ideas, which is why courses in advertising and media from my first year guide a lot of my decision-making in my day-to-day marketing. I believe my major future-proofed students not only for their career but also in their world view.
I use my qualifications daily through my in-person interactions with customers, studying consumer behaviour on social media, creating campaigns, understanding market trends, or building brand identity and equity.
“I was always interested in journalism, so I sought an education that
provided me with an understanding of the media and how it operates. This
included Sociology, History, Politics, Theology and much more. My BA broadened my horizons in public dealing, media literacy, and understanding how and why our society operates the way it does and how to speak for the change you wish to see.
“Your time at university is limited; if you spend your time worrying about the end result, you’ll miss out on what you’re here for - education. The best thing you can do to be successful – at university and in the world - is to study subjects and be in environments and spaces that align with what you want to learn.
“It is not true that the niche subject you’re interested in is not ‘viable’ enough to open enough doors in the workforce. If you pursue what you love and you excel, the doors will be created for you.
“I chose the University of Auckland as I wished to study close to home. As someone who has always had an adventurous spirit but was still scared of the unknown, I realised that the University was perfect for someone like me who was getting ready to experience life outside my comfort zone while receiving an excellent education.”