Alumni Stories
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Alumni story: Dr. Shko Resool
Academy: Harris City Academy Crystal Palace
Current role: Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Shko Resool attended Harris City Academy Crystal Palace from 2002 to 2007 and is now a Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon. His journey to medical school and beyond was challenging, but his determination and the support he received along the way were key to his success.
When Shko started medical school, many of his peers came from prestigious backgrounds, which initially made him feel at a disadvantage. However, he soon realised that everyone was on the same level. "It doesn’t matter if you don’t come from a medical background- you can still do it," he says.
Growing up in South London, Shko had no family history in medicine. But the support he received at Harris gave him the confidence to prove himself. He credits the school's strong teacher-student relationships and understanding of how students learn for his success.
To the teachers who supported him, Shko says, “Thank you for all your hard work. I wouldn’t be here without your belief in me.”
Shko’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the right support in achieving your goals.
Alumni story: David Gayle
Academy: Harris City Academy Crystal Palace
Current role: Kennedy Scholar at Harvard University
Tell us a bit about your background...
I’m David. I’m currently pursuing the Master in Public Policy (MPP) program at the Harvard Kennedy School. Before making the leap to study in the U.S., I spent over five years at the Bank of England, working on climate-related financial risks. Outside of my work, I am an active member of the music team at my local church.
What path did you take after school?
After finishing my undergraduate degree at University College London, I undertook my first role at the Bank of England. I pivoted into climate finance after studying for the MPhil. Environmental Policy at the University of Cambridge during a career break in 2020. It was at Cambridge that I really sharpened my understanding of global environmental challenges and developed a deeper interest in the role policy can play in addressing them.
After returning to the Bank of England, I took on various roles focused on climate and nature-related risks. One of my proudest moments was leading macro-financial work as part of the Bank's contributions to the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS). Alongside my core role, I was a member of the Steering Group for the Bank’s exhibition of its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
What motivates and inspires you?
I’m inspired by the power of public policy - when done right, it can change lives, safeguard our planet, and address social inequalities. Being part of those solutions, however big or small, keeps me motivated. In the future I want to use my policy knowledge as a platform for improving the lives of those in my community.
What are your current plans?
Right now, I’m fully immersed in my studies at Harvard. It’s been an incredible experience learning alongside my peers from all over the world, and particularly in the Harvard Center for Public Leadership where I hold a Fellowship. The topics I’m focusing on include racial equity, policy, and UK democracy. I look forward to bringing what I learn back to the UK when I return.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Though my ambition has been consistent, I never expected to be on the path that I am now on. Be curious, stay open-minded, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The most meaningful experiences often when you take a risk or pursue something unexpected, even if you think your goals are outlandish. Continue to ask the question: “Why not me?” and surround yourself with people who challenge you.
Alumni story: Simone Lisk
Academy: Harris City Academy Crystal Palace
Current role: Communications Manager
Tell us a bit about your background.
I went to Harris City Academy Crystal Palace before heading to Heriot-Watt University, where I achieved a First Class Honours in Accountancy and Business Law. University was where I really found my passion for communications and business, and it's shaped the career path I've followed ever since. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work in various roles, from managing service delivery at Fujitsu to now overseeing communications at Informa Markets.
What path did you take after school?
After finishing university, I joined Fujitsu as a Graduate Service Delivery Manager. It was a great start to my career, where I handled multiple accounts, worked closely with senior management, and learned the ins and outs of service delivery and project management. Over time, I moved into internal communications and spent time as an Internal Communications Manager for Northern and Western Europe. Now, I’m with Informa Markets, where I’m helping to shape the company’s communications strategies and keep everyone on the same page, blending my creative skills with my strategic skills.
What motivates and inspires you?
I’m really passionate about making communication clear and effective. Whether I’m working with teams internally or mentoring students at a local school, I love helping people connect and get things done. I’m also an active member of Informa’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion community, where I lead a colleague-run network aimed at supporting career development across the business. Helping others grow and succeed always motivates me to keep pushing forward.
What are your current plans?
Right now, I’m focused on refining how we communicate at Informa Markets, looking for ways to improve both internal and external messaging. I’m excited to keep working on strategic communications and, hopefully, take on more leadership roles in the future. Alongside that, I want to continue supporting mentoring and CSR initiatives wherever I can.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Get involved in everything you can—internships, volunteering, networking—because it’s all about the experiences you collect. Take risks, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll learn about what you truly want to do. Always stay open to building connections, those relationships will help you go far.
Alumni story: Zoe Sherwood
Academy: Harris City Academy Crystal Palace
Current role: Artist, designer and entrepreneur (www.zoesherwood.co.uk)
Tell us a bit about your background…
I grew up in London in a creative household. My mum was a seamstress, and my dad had a passion for graphic design. That love for making things was always in me, and at Harris Academy Crystal Palace, I found the confidence to pursue it.
What path did you take after school?
I studied Womenswear Design at Central Saint Martins and, while freelancing for Diane von Fürstenberg (DVF), launched my own accessory brand with support from Liberty London. Over the past 14 years, I’ve worked in fashion, theatre, film, and collaborated with brands like Puma Black Label. My work first appeared at London Fashion Week in 2015, and today, you can find my designs in Selfridges, Tate Modern Shops, and boutiques in Japan and the US.
What motivates and inspires you?
I love storytelling and the power of words. My brand is built around the word ‘Me’, a reminder of self-love and confidence. My work is designed to look beautiful but also start conversations. I’ve since expanded into words like ‘You,’ ‘Love,’ ‘Peace,’ and ‘Hope.’ Sustainability also drives me. My ‘Save Earth’ collection uses 3D-printed material made from 100% recycled fishing nets.
What are your current plans?
I’m continuing to grow my brand, collaborate with creatives, and push the boundaries of fashion and storytelling. Every piece I make is about more than just design, it’s about meaning and impact.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Stay true to yourself. The creative world is competitive, but if you believe in your vision and work hard, you’ll find your place. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, put yourself out there, and take risks. Most of all, try to enjoy the journey along the way. Every experience shapes who you become.
