Afrah Moosa (Afran on social media) is a growing phenomenon; she is fast stamping her mark across different social media platforms as a positive influencer for the youth. A student of marketing, she relies on her social media accounts (@afranation) and her Youtube channel to reach out and spread her message of hope and inspiration.
Here are Afrah’s replies to a FACES questionnaire:
What is your philosophy on life and living?
Honestly, to me, life should be lived to its fullest; filling it with things you love doing, experiencing new, different stuff and visiting new places. Life isn’t meant to be lived in one place, doing the same thing. As a human, you should aim to be nice to everyone and everything around you, kind to the environment, and accepting of others. Also, in my opinion, we can and should try to be the best versions of ourselves, never harming anyone.
How much of your personal life lessons do you incorporate into your talks?
Most of them. I try to talk from experience (not to sound clichéd, or look like I am trying to seem better than anyone). I want people to relate to me, to know that I am just like them, but I’ve chosen to speak up about what I think needs fixing around us.
What are the challenges you face as a motivational speaker?
To be frank, people are often supportive, kind and helpful. But, I have faced some problems with people who thought I was only doing it to become popular or to show off; which is something that I have predicted. Some also were annoyed with the idea of an Omani girl showing up on social media, talking…as it is a bit unusual in our society, and I accept that, as long as I know it won’t stop me. I consider myself a strong-willed person and I try to always take the criticisms that I get with an open heart.
Is positive thinking all that it is made out to be?
No, everything I say or talk about I try to make it revolve around the idea of criticising and aiming to fix what needs fixing. Positive thinking solely won’t take us anywhere, and I am personally a bit sceptical of the big speeches given about positive thinking. If you don’t work hard, no change will take place, adds Afrah.
What are the values you endorse to foster self-growth among children?
Follow your dreams; work towards self-independence; fight for justice, and you are never too important to be kind.
Are we focusing overtly on the concept of success and not grasping the import of personality development among children?
In a way, yes, we are. We keep telling them that if you study you will go to this university or that country to study, that if you become this or that, then you have succeeded. We give all the attention to the results we want them to achieve, but not really teach them how best to get there; how to develop oneself on the way to become something great.
What is needed to help children learn the positive facets of sharing and caring? Children learn through their environment. If what is around them shows them how to share and care, then it will affect them directly; however, if the environment tells but never shows, what is the point of it all? Contradicting oneself, while trying to send a message, does not work with kids, especially if we are trying to send a positive one. I say for the older ones to be role models; kids will follow.
What is your most important advice for people to stay motivated?
Break the routine, always reflect, be patient but never settle for less than what you want. And personally, I think everyone should travel a bit more and GET INSPIRED, says Afrah.
How can the season of Ramadan help one to become mentally and emotionally strong?
This season is already designed to be one of the best times of the year: to fix something in oneself, to break the routine, to let go of a bad habit. Think of it as a 30-day challenge; except, you have more focus, you are already doing wonderful by fasting all day, therefore, you are capable of anything. Make a plan…baby steps, and by the end of the month, you are a different person. Trust me on this one.
