From character-defining Freshers’ Week to breaking down barriers in HR

Himra Mursil’s first weeks at King’s were anything but smooth. But, after overcoming a series of challenges, she has gone on to rise to the top of her HR field, driving initiatives to improve employee experiences in Pakistan and internationally, and breaking down barriers as she goes. She has also remained close to King’s, offering invaluable support to graduates in Pakistan as a King’s International Alumni Leader.

Overcoming challenges to find community at King’s

'I’d always aspired to study in a multicultural, globally connected environment – and what better place than London to experience that?

'When I received my offer from King’s, I shared the news with my uncle. His response was simple yet powerful: “Just close your eyes and go.” That moment gave me the confidence and reassurance I needed.

'My first day of orientation at King’s took an unexpected turn. I received a call from my landlord informing me that I needed to vacate my apartment because they were planning to sell the property. Suddenly I found myself without a place to stay - it was my first time alone in a foreign country, and I was overwhelmed.

'I packed a few essentials and went ahead with orientation, determined not to miss it. But the challenges continued when I was seriously injured while stuck in an elevator. I then unfortunately witnessed a mugging. It was terrifying, and I remember people telling me to go back home. But I knew I wasn’t a quitter. I reminded myself why I came to King’s, and I kept pushing forward. I was eventually able to secure accommodation in Park Village East.

'Despite the chaos, I found strength in the kindness of others, the support from King’s and my own resilience. That week taught me more about perseverance than any classroom ever could.

'King’s gave me so many unforgettable experiences, from inspiring professors to meaningful friendships and a growing desire to give back to the community.

‘But, if I had to pick, one moment stands out. Just before our final exams, we wrapped up with a small gathering hosted by our professors. It was a rare chance to see the lighter, more personal side of the people who had challenged and guided us throughout the year.

‘We laughed, shared stories and connected beyond the classroom walls. That evening felt like a beautiful pause – a moment of reflection, camaraderie and joy before stepping into the final stretch of our academic journey.'

Breaking down barriers

‘My journey into Industrial Relations began when my manager at Unilever Pakistan decided to challenge the status quo by placing a woman in a traditionally male-dominated role. He asked if I was up for it – and I said yes without hesitation.

‘I’m proud to say I made history by becoming the first woman in Unilever Pakistan to successfully take on this role – and, thankfully, I wasn’t the last. My presence helped pave the way for more inclusive leadership in the industrial space. It was a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience that taught me the power of resilience, diplomacy and breaking barriers.’

Improving HR practices in Pakistan

'After a stint with Coca-Cola Içecek in Turkey, I returned to Pakistan in 2019 and took on the role of HR Director at Reckitt, a consumer goods company. Shortly after, I attended an event where I struck up a conversation with the General Manager of the Pakistan Society of Human Resource Management. I shared a few ideas I had around evolving HR practices in Pakistan. She listened intently and then said something that changed the course of my career: “Our board elections are coming up – why don’t you apply?”

'I did. And I got in. Now in my sixth year, I’m proud to be working on multiple initiatives aimed at building HR capabilities across the country. From designing learning platforms to hosting thought leadership forums, my focus remains on pushing boundaries and creating meaningful impact in the profession.'

Supporting alumni in challenging times

'During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when isolation and uncertainty were at their peak, I had the privilege of co-leading alumni mentoring and engagement initiatives for King’s in Pakistan.

‘Despite the challenges of remote co-ordination, we built a vibrant community that supported recent graduates, facilitated mentoring relationships and kept the spirit of King’s alive – even from afar.

‘In one of our brainstorming sessions, I proposed the idea of launching a virtual mentorship programme – something that could bridge the gap between experienced alumni and students. The initiative quickly gained traction, with alumni stepping up to mentor students across disciplines and geographies.

‘It was a time of creative problem-solving, empathy and resilience, and I’m proud of the bridges we built during those difficult months.

'Education has always been close to my heart, and I am deeply committed to giving back to the field in any way I can.’

Find out about how to connect with other King’s alumni in your country.