Akida is currently completing a PhD in Social Sciences, specialising in Social Gerontology in University of Oxford. Alongside her academic work, she has sustained a longstanding passion for the arts. She minored in Art History during her undergraduate studies and has explored a wide range of creative practices, including sketching, graphic design, and fashion design, with her work featured in a 2024 fashion show at Blenheim Palace. In recent years, her primary artistic focus has been oil painting, and she has also performed as a violinist in multiple orchestras.
She runs an online art shop where she sells original drawings and accepts commissioned work, creating bespoke pieces inspired by photographs shared by clients. She also develops creative merchandise based on her paintings, including printed bookmarks, postcards, tote bags, and notebooks, extending her artwork into everyday objects. Proceeds from her art practice are donated, reflecting her belief in creativity as a means of connection, generosity, and social contribution. She volunteers with GLAM and is keen to expand her involvement in collaborative art projects and workshops. Looking ahead, she hopes to integrate participatory and interventional arts-based approaches into her academic career, particularly in work with older adults, bringing together her theoretical expertise and creative practice to foster wellbeing, dialogue, and community.