Zohul’s education and career journey was not always a straightforward one. Born in Afghanistan, Zohul moved to the UK in her early teens, and has since overcome challenges that have shaped her business and made her the adviser she is today.
“I’m an Afghan woman. Where I come from, women are always faced with challenges. There is a level of expectation for us… but I’ve always loved to fight back.” Having defied the doubts of her teachers and lecturers by graduating from university with a degree in law, Zohul started her career in banking at Lloyds, and yet still faced the same obstacles that had shaped her path thus far:
“I was told that because I was young and Asian, I’d need to portray myself in a certain way if I was to be taken seriously. But I proved them wrong – I was one of the strongest on the team.”
After a fast-paced and competitive career in the banking world, Zohul decided to take a career break to start a family. It was a tough call for the entrepreneurially-minded woman who had already achieved so much, but Zohul’s previous role did not allow her the flexibility to raise a family in the way that she wanted.
“When I first started in financial services, I worked in a big branch helping customers. I found that I got a real sense of achievement from guiding individuals to make better decisions… but I also hated the sales aspect of the job.”
After her career break, Zohul soon realised that she didn't have to choose between a successful career and a fulfilling family life: “When I went to the Academy open evening and was told that I could build my own business and client-base, I felt like I’d won the lottery.”
After embarking on the Academy programme, Zohul discovered a new perspective that allowed her to balance both her home and professional life. She understood that she could create a thriving business while nurturing her family: with the unwavering determination she developed over her earlier years, Zohul took the leap and established her own financial advice business, Malikzada Financial Planning.
“Joining the Academy and becoming a Partner at St. James’s Place has given me the flexibility to choose my own hours and arrange client meetings around my children. It’s important for my boys to see me, but at the same time I want them to see me working and being independent. “
Starting a business is never easy, but Zohul's experience in the banking profession provided her with a solid foundation. “The Academy training was challenging at times, but I reminded myself that it’s all temporary, and helped me get where I want to be. When you look back and see what you’ve achieved, it’s a great feeling.”
Zohul leveraged her expertise to build a clientele and establish her presence: “Even my networking is done in school hours. I’ve made it work!” Zohul's dedication, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, allowed her to navigate the challenges that came her way.
Reflecting on her time on the Academy programme, Zohul explains that her support network made a real difference – whether it’s her family, SJP’s resources or other women in the profession supporting her, Zohul has been able to overcome obstacles and build a thriving business while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.
“SJP are really invested in my success – and your progression is dependent on your own hard work. I work really hard, and the fact that it’s up to me to decide how far I want to go is amazing.”
Zohul's journey serves as a reminder that barriers are meant to be broken, and with perseverance, anything is attainable.