Race to 100 Alumni

Iqra Shafiq

KCC Class of 2015
Major: Liberal Arts Major
Current Title/Profession: Constituent Liaison to Council Member Shahana Hanif

For this Kingsborough Community College alum, a passion for public service began with a simple but powerful desire: helping people navigate systems that often feel overwhelming and inaccessible. As a first-generation Pakistani American, Iqra Shafiq witnessed firsthand how language barriers, bureaucracy, and limited access to information can prevent individuals and families from accessing opportunities and essential services. Those experiences shaped her commitment to helping others solve problems, connect with resources, and advocate for themselves, work that ultimately led her to a career in government and community engagement.

“My professional passion grew from a desire to help people navigate systems that often feel overwhelming and inaccessible,” she said. “I realized that I am most fulfilled when I am helping others solve problems, connect with resources, and advocate for themselves.” At Kingsborough Community College, Iqra pursued a degree in Liberal Arts, building a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and civic engagement. The experience inspired her to continue her education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The City College of New York.

Reflecting on her time at Kingsborough, Iqra describes the experience as transformative. As a first-generation college student, she found a supportive environment where she could explore her interests, build confidence, and discover her potential. One of her favorite aspects of campus life was connecting with students from diverse backgrounds. Conversations between classes about current events, career aspirations, and life goals broadened Iqra's perspective and helped shape the leader she would become. “Kingsborough exposed me to perspectives and cultures from around the world,” she shared. “Those experiences helped shape the way I approach leadership and community work today.”

Iqra also credits dedicated faculty members who invested in their students’ success and encouraged her to pursue goals that once felt out of reach. Their support helped reinforce a belief that higher education and a meaningful career were attainable. Kingsborough’s impact continues to influence her work today. In her public service career, she helps constituents navigate government agencies, advocates for solutions to complex community issues, and collaborates with city agencies and community organizations to improve residents’ quality of life. Whether assisting a family facing housing challenges, coordinating services, or representing elected officials at community meetings, Iqra relies on the communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills she first developed at KCC. “Kingsborough taught me that my voice mattered and that I had the ability to create meaningful change in my community,” she said.

For current students, her advice is simple: embrace every opportunity. “Attend events, build relationships with your professors, seek internships, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone,” she said. “You do not need to have your entire future figured out today.” Iqra recognizes that many Kingsborough students balance work, family responsibilities, financial pressures, and uncertainty about the future. Her message is one of resilience and optimism. “Your current circumstances do not define your future,” she said. “Stay curious, stay resilient, and trust that every experience is helping prepare you for the next chapter.”

Today, Iqra remains a strong believer in the power of community colleges and the importance of investing in student success. “Kingsborough is more than a college, it is a gateway to opportunity,” she said. “For many students, especially first-generation students, immigrants, working adults, and those from underserved communities, KCC provides an affordable and accessible path to higher education and economic mobility.” Iqra views support for Kingsborough as an investment in future leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, public servants, and community advocates. Through partnerships, mentorship, internships, scholarships, and workforce development opportunities, students gain the tools they need to thrive. Her own story stands as a testament to that impact. “The support, education, and opportunities I received at Kingsborough helped launch a career dedicated to serving others,” she said. “By supporting Kingsborough, we help ensure that future generations have the same opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to their communities.”