This talk will theorise the processes by which individuals do identity work to maintain their occupational trajectory in the face of employment discrimination. Drawing on the accounts of South Asian migrant academics working in UK universities, Dr Fernando distinguishes between identity work undertaken to cope with the situation and identity work undertaken to move forward. The talk shows how these identity work strategies enable individuals to maintain identification with their occupation whilst distancing themselves from the organisation. Furthermore, the seminar highlights how individuals’ identification with their ethnic collective influences their identity work. Finally, the talk points out the role of silence and silent selves in coping and moving forward strategies.