Board Of Directors
Mrs Uzma Rashid
Chair, Neesie
Mrs Uzma Rashid brings a wealth of educational leadership, governance insight, and community understanding to her role as Chair of Neesie. Born in Lahore and arriving in the UK at the age of five, she grew up in Salford before moving to Manchester, shaping her strong appreciation of diverse communities and inclusion. She studied at Manchester Polytechnic and later lived in Glasgow before settling in Bradford.
A retired teacher with over 20 years’ experience across primary, middle, and secondary education, Mrs Rashid has taught Maths, Science, and English, developing a deep understanding of curriculum design, safeguarding, and child development. Her professional background equips Neesie with strong governance, accountability, and scrutiny, while her lived experience strengthens her commitment to equity, education, and community empowerment.
Mr Mohammad Dilpazeer
Vice Chair, Neesie
Mr Mohammad Dilpazeer is an accomplished entrepreneur and businessman with extensive experience in early years provision and organisational leadership. As Director of a successful nursery chain, he brings strategic oversight, financial awareness, and operational excellence to Neesie’s Board.
Well connected across professional networks, community leaders, and local organisations, Mr Dilpazeer plays a key role in partnership building, sustainability, and growth. His entrepreneurial mindset and strong community ties support Neesie’s vision through informed decision-making, governance leadership, and sector influence.
Mrs Minhaz Bi
Company Secretary, Neesie
Mrs Minhaz Bi is the Owner and Director of Little Hearts Nursery and a respected leader in Early Years Education. With extensive experience in compliance, safeguarding, and quality assurance, she plays a vital role in ensuring Neesie meets its legal, regulatory, and governance responsibilities.
As Company Secretary, she brings precision, accountability, and robust organisational systems to the Board. Her expertise as a safeguarding specialist ensures that children’s welfare, ethical practice, and risk management remain central to Neesie’s operations and strategic direction.
Ms Sameena Akhtar
Finance Secretary, Neesie
Ms Sameena Akhtar provides strong financial stewardship and community insight as Finance Secretary. With a background in community engagement and close working relationships across the Third Sector and VCS organisations, she bridges financial accountability with grassroots understanding.
Her lived experience informs her inclusive approach to budgeting, resource allocation, and sustainability, ensuring Neesie’s finances reflect community needs and social value. She supports transparent financial governance while strengthening partnerships and funding opportunities.
Ms Noreen Khan
Director, Neesie
Ms Noreen Khan is an internationally recognised professional development coach and mentor, known for her leadership in personal growth, organisational development, and empowerment. With lived experience as a single parent, she brings authenticity, resilience, and insight to Neesie’s leadership.
Recognised locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally, Ms Khan contributes strategic vision, accountability, and mentoring expertise. Her work strengthens leadership pathways, workforce development, and inclusive governance, ensuring Neesie remains innovative and impact-driven.
Board Members
Mrs Eduvie Ikegwuru
Board Member
Mrs Eduvie Ikegwuru works as a postwoman and brings reliability, dedication, and strong community values to the Board. As a mother of six, she offers lived experience of family life, resilience, and balancing responsibilities.
Her interests in baking and reading reflect her creativity and lifelong learning mindset. Mrs Ikegwuru contributes practical insight, community representation, and grounded perspectives that support inclusive decision-making.
Miss Jeveria Ahmed
Board Member
Miss Jeveria Ahmed is a Graduate Nurse with professional qualifications in medical studies, bringing clinical knowledge, safeguarding awareness, and wellbeing expertise to Neesie. She is a passionate advocate for young people and serves as a lead for Youth Voice.
Her role ensures that young people’s perspectives are heard, valued, and embedded in governance and programme design. She strengthens Neesie’s commitment to representation, health awareness, and future leadership development.
Mrs Sofia Qurbaan
Board Member
Mrs Sofia Qurbaan is an entrepreneur with extensive experience in youth engagement, community development, and adult social care leadership. She brings strategic insight into service delivery, inclusion, and social impact.
With strong lived experience, she champions co-production, community voice, and responsive support systems. Her expertise enhances Neesie’s work across youth services, adult social care, and community engagement.
Mrs Nabila Butt
Board Member
Mrs Nabila Butt is a retired teacher and experienced community activist with a strong professional and educational background. Her work in social engagement and advocacy reflects her commitment to equity, education, and community wellbeing.
With lived experience and a passion for Youth Voice, she supports Neesie’s mission to empower young people and marginalised communities. Her contribution strengthens governance, scrutiny, and inclusive participation across the organisation.