Shifaz Riyaz

Name: Shifaz Riyaz
Age: 31
Born: Sri Lanka
Lived in Scotland since: 2003

It’s a long way from Sri Lanka to Scotland, but well worth the journey according to Shifaz Riyaz.

Having already stepped up a few rungs on the career ladder with eight years experience in business including his last post in Sri Lanka as a Management Accountant, Shifaz tucked his Degree in Business Administration into his suitcase and headed for Scotland in September 2003 to take up an MBA in Business Administration at Glasgow Caledonian University.

Shifaz says, “I knew Scotland is a colder area of the UK before I came here. But as soon as I landed here I was impressed. Glasgow Caledonian University impressed me with its new development and strategies. I am sure it will be one of the best universities in the near future.”

Having successfully completed his degree in November 2004 he embarked on progressing his career in Scotland. Working initially with Star Refrigeration Ltd he moved to SMG Plc in June 2005 under a temporary contract. This was extended to a six-month contract in September 2005 as an Assistant Management Accountant. So impressed were his employers that Shifaz was given a permanent contract in February 2006 as a Production Accountant.

Working in the brand new flagship building of Scottish Television (STV) on the banks of Glasgow’s River Clyde, Shifaz is surrounded by famous Glasgow Landmarks such as the SECC, Rotunda, Science Centre and the recently built bridge Clyde Arc Bridge, affectionately known by locals as ‘The Squinty Bridge’.

Shifaz says, “I love the fantastic atmosphere in my working environment. Many of my colleagues are fast becoming friends.”

Actively involved with various activities supported by his employer, Shifaz has little time to feel homesick. Having been a member of the Sri Lankan Swimming and Water Polo Team representing the Asian games in 1995, Shifaz is keen to be involved in developing the sport in Scotland.

Another pastime that Shifaz enjoys whenever he gets the chance is visiting other places in Scotland.

Shifaz says, “Taking the opportunity to travel throughout Scotland has opened my eyes to the contrasting sights sounds and smells of Scotland. My love of travelling has taken me to areas such as Oban, the Isle of Arran, Inverness, Dundee, Edinburgh, Fort William, Cumbria Millport and the Scottish Borders.”

Shifaz says he has adapted well to Scottish food and the many cultures within Scotland, and that having lived here for over three years now, it feels like home.

Related links

• Glasgow Caledonian University: www.gcal.ac.uk
• Scottish Television (STV): www.stv.tv