Born in Syria and grew up in the main coastal city of Lattakia on the Mediterranean. I graduated from Tishreen University (in Lattakia) and obtained my BA in the field of English Language and Literature. I became an Associate Lecturer in my field at the same university. I came to the UK to pursue my postgraduate studies and obtained my Diploma in English Literature from Leeds University and my MA from Warwick.

Whilst at Warwick, I taught Arabic as part of LfP and became Life Long Learning co-ordinator. From there, I developed key interest in assessment for learning and the techniques of writing assessments. In addition, I have been working as an Interlocutor/Examiner for IoL and occupied several External Examiner roles at various British universities. I am also a Principal Examiner for Cambridge Assessments (CIE) working on various Arabic modules.

I lead a very busy life professionally and at home, having three children, but in my leisure time I enjoy swimming, travelling and cooking Middle-Eastern food.