Born in Kharian, Gujrat, Iftikhar Ahmed arrived in Barnoldswick, Lancashire, as a young boy to join his father, who had settled in England earlier. The early years were full of adjustment — learning a new language, navigating unfamiliar customs, and facing prejudice. Despite these challenges, Iftikhar’s adaptability, curiosity, and kindness helped him make friends and find a sense of belonging, setting the foundation for a life of achievement.

After leaving school in 1977, Iftikhar began his career in engineering as an apprentice at Rolls-Royce. His dedication and talent quickly became evident, contributing to the development of pioneering hollow fan blades that transformed aircraft engine technology. He later played a key role in helping Malaysia deliver its first Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 Fan Case to Singapore, a milestone reflecting both technical excellence and international collaboration.

Iftikhar’s impact extends beyond engineering. A passionate sportsman, he played football for Paak United, Barnoldswick FC, and Skipton FC, and coached cricket throughout Lancashire. He also served with the Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service, where he was formally commended for saving two lives – a testament to his courage and commitment to community.

Reflecting on his journey, Iftikhar shares a message for future generations:

“I would say set goals for yourselves and be positive and use the experience of your parents to build on.”