United Colleges Group welcomed two trailblazing alumni back to City of Westminster College this month: rhythmic gymnast and all-around Commonwealth gold medalist Marfa Ekimova, and JJ Roble MBE, the UK’s first female Muslim referee.
Marfa Ekimova graduated from City of Westminster College with a NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity in 2023. In an engaging talk with students, she spoke about her gymnastics journey and the rigorous training required to help her achieve international success.
Max Maalimey, Curriculum Manager for Sport & Public Services at United Colleges Group, said “Marfa’s visit was particularly significant as she once walked through the hallway as a student, before making her journey from humble beginnings to international stardom. Her story shows that success is achievable with perseverance, making her an ideal guest speaker to inspire our current students.”
JJ Roble was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) at just 28 years old in recognition of her services to football and gender equality. She graduated from City of Westminster College in 2013 with a Level Three Diploma in IT, and visited the college to speak about her journey as the first Muslim woman to officiate matches in the UK at a professional level.
JJ Roble said: “I have so much nostalgia for City of Westminster College, I was here for two years, and I had an amazing time. It’s so nice to be invited back again to talk about my career with both familiar faces and new faces.”
United Colleges Group has a powerful alumni network that continues to make a positive impact across sectors. It’s a pleasure to welcome back members of this network to speak at our campuses and provide current students with the opportunity to engage with inspiring role models and find success on their own career journeys.
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
