In the world of Speech and Language Therapy, Asma Khanum stands as a beacon of innovation and advocacy. As the CEO of Chatterbug Speech and Language Therapy Service, Asma, embodies the spirit of dedication and empowerment, reshaping the landscape of support for children with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN). Yet, behind her remarkable journey lies a narrative of passion, perseverance, and profound self-discovery.
Born a second-generation Bangladeshi, Asma’s journey into the world of speech and language therapy began with a profound fascination for human communication. Graduating from University College London, she embarked on a transformative odyssey, marked by diverse experiences that would shape her into one of the first speech and language therapists of Bangladeshi heritage.
Asma’s professional evolution was not merely a career trajectory but a profound personal voyage. Initially working as a Therapy Assistant, she witnessed the theoretical concepts of her studies manifest into tangible transformations in individuals’ lives. This firsthand experience underscored the importance of real-world engagement in understanding the complexities of the profession and the needs of those individuals receiving support.
Over the span of 25 years, Asma traversed through various NHS and Third Sector organisations, specialising in areas such as Early Years, Bilingualism, and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH). Each endeavour deepened her commitment to evidence-based practices and fueled her passion for effecting positive change.
A pivotal moment in Asma’s journey came with the establishment of Chatterbug in 2008. Driven by a fervent desire to address gaps in speech, language, and communication support, as Asma’s family grew welcoming 3 wonderful children, Chatterbug has also grown and evolved into a nationally recognised entity, boasting a formidable team of 50 and standing as a trusted NHS partner.
However, Asma’s journey transcended professional milestones, delving into a profound realisation of her identity as an Autistic individual. Embracing her neurodivergence, she discovered that her unique perspective and problem-solving skills were her greatest assets. This newfound self-awareness ignited a passion for innovation, leading her to craft services tailored to the diverse needs of children and young people.
Amidst triumphs and challenges, Asma’s dedication was honoured with the ASLTIP Leadership award, a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering those with SLCN. This accolade not only recognised her achievements but also symbolised the transformative power of perseverance and purpose.
In the narrative of Asma Khanum’s journey lies a profound testament to the power of passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication in effecting positive change and empowering voices that deserve to be heard. If you’d like to follow Asma’s journey, be sure to follow her on LinkedIn here and Instagram here.
Asma’s mission remains resolute: to ensure that every child with SLCN receives the highest quality support, precisely when and where they need it. To parents seeking assistance for their child’s speech and language needs, we extend an invitation to discover the transformative possibilities through email at office@chatter-bug.com or by calling our Leeds head office on 0113 240 8510.
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