Mahshad Torkan

"I studied at the Najaf Abad University in Esfahan (Isfahan) from 1998-2002 and was awarded a BSc in Computer Software Engineering. My latest qualification was in "International tour leadership" from the organisation of cultural heritage, tourism and handicrafts in Iran in 2006 for which I got 86.85 out of 100. I have always been very interested in international cultures and languages. I speak five languages: Farsi, English, Deutsch, Urdu, Kurdish and a basic Knowledge of Arabic. I did voluntary work as a tour guide in some of the historical sites of my city, Esfahan. I am an artist and do photography and painting (miniatures are my speciality) and have been exhibited in both Iran and in the UK. I also have many years of practical experience and qualifications in Persian handicrafts and miniature painting. I am also a poet and my mother is a published poet, as well.

Today our beautiful ancient face of Iran is hidden behind the world of politics and little attention is paid to the enormous existing heritage of Iran that belongs to all humanity. Some are even under risk of being destroyed and faced with the threat and tragedy of being lost to future civilisations.

I believe that Iran, my country, is one of the most fascinating historical places in the world and can become internationally recognised through its rich arts and heritage. Although Iran is rated amongst the 10 most attractive countries for tourists in the world, it only ranks 68th in tourism revenues worldwide. After the revolution in 1979 and eight years of war, we took a huge step backward in our heritage management and this is a travesty in my opinion. Today, tourism has become top of the agenda for development in many countries and in fact the youth in Iran hope and plan to open the borders to make this happen, as well.

The climatic diversity in Iran is such that some tourists can enjoy winter sports in the mountains while others can bathe in the warm waters of the southern shores, both within a few hours drive from the main cities. We have four strong seasons. We have salt deserts like Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut which were traversed in the past by great trade caravans carrying goods from the east to the west. Some high mountains like Alborz and Zagros that offer hunting, sports, recreational tourism in natural pasture and forest settings, exist over wide areas of this region.

Persia (Iran) has a rich culture with a history of over 2,500 years and it's interesting for cultural tourism, like archaeologists. It is the land of the great poets like Omar Khayyam, Ferdousi, Hafez and Shams Tabrizi. Iran is famous with its wonderful carpets, jewellery, various handicrafts and delicious fruits. I am from Esfahan one of the most beautiful cities in the world which has a large number of attractions.

The Naghsh-e-Jahan Square protected by UNESCO in the centre of the town is the second largest square in the world after Tiananmen in China. Also known as Esfahan's Royal Square. That is a huge open area, built in the 17th century is adorned by impressive mosques, fountains and bazaar. The Zayandeh Roud (life giving river) runs through the town and has a couple of famous bridges. Esfahan displays the exquisite monuments with impressive mosaics, the mosques with their turquoise domes, the slim minarets, the tombs glorifying the great people and palaces with beautiful gardens.

I am very grateful for this scholarship to study for a Masters in Arts and Heritage Management at London Met as I strongly believe that this knowledge will help me to contribute in producing an increase in tourism. Such activity will promote positive communication, respect and love between people all around the world. As an industry, tourism is an effective way to fight poverty, racism and to protect the environment and create a mutual appreciation of diverse cultures."