Leaving school and entering the real world can be a huge leap. Full of dreams but maybe a little unsure, young people often need help figuring out their next steps in life – choosing a career, building relationships, and discovering who they really are. This is where mentors and role models become incredibly important. They offer guidance, support, and inspiration to help navigate life's twists and turns. My recent talk at City University's "Take a Break on Us", organised by Professor Alfred Tat-Kei Ho, showed me how much young people benefit from hearing from someone who's been through it all and how much I learned from them in return.
More Than Just Advice:
A role model isn't just someone who gives advice; they're someone you look up to. They show you, through their own life, what's possible and how to achieve your goals. They're someone whose actions and character inspire you to be better. A mentor is slightly different; they usually work more closely with you, offering more direct support and guidance as you work towards your goals. But both play a vital role in helping young people grow.
My story, which I shared at the event, shows how important it is to have positive examples to look up to. My journey—from my time at the Pakistan Military Academy to my injury, the ups and downs of my business career, and my successes in sports—shows the importance of sticking with things, even when they're hard. It shows that setbacks don't define who you are; how you handle them does.
What Schools Don't Teach:
Schools teach you a lot, but they don't always prepare you for the everyday challenges of adult life. Mentors and role models help fill this gap. They offer real-world advice and a different perspective than what you get from textbooks. They help you see how what you learned in school applies to real-life situations, giving you the confidence to handle whatever comes your way.
The "Take a Break on Us" event was designed to do just that: bridge the gap between what you learn in school and the complexities of the real world. By sharing my experiences, I hoped to give students a better understanding of what it takes to succeed, showing them that there are many different paths to reach their goals. It wasn't just about careers; it was about the whole picture – handling life's challenges, finding personal fulfilment, and making a difference.
Building Resilience:
Young people face many challenges: pressure to do well in school, worrying about finding a job, relationship problems, and figuring out who they are. Mentors and role models help them develop the strength to deal with these challenges.
My presentation emphasised the unexpected turns in my own life. My accident, the long recovery, my business struggles, and the receivership weren't easy, but they made me stronger. They taught me the importance of determination, faith, and support from others. Sharing this story helps show young people that setbacks are normal and that it's possible to come back from them.
Seeing someone overcome a significant obstacle, especially something that seems impossible, can inspire hope and confidence. It shows that determination and hard work can lead to amazing results even when things seem hopeless.
Finding Your Passion:
Many young people struggle to find their purpose in life. Society often pushes them towards certain career paths, but that can stop them from pursuing their passions. Mentors and role models encourage exploration, helping young people discover their talents and values so they can choose a path that truly suits them.
My talk stressed the importance of doing what you love. This wasn't just advice; it’s how I've lived. From the military to my tech career to my athletic pursuits, I've always tried to do what makes me happy. This shows how passion can drive success, even when things get tough.
Finding your own unique path is essential. It shows that there are many ways to succeed and that sticking to the usual path isn't the only way to achieve your dreams. Mentors and role models help young people see beyond expectations and find paths that fulfil them.
Expanding Horizons:
My presentation highlighted the significance of global perspectives and social responsibility, showing how our actions can initiate a ripple effect of positive change. I discussed my experiences in international sporting events, studying in Germany, and living and working in the vibrant environment of Hong Kong. These varied experiences underscored the transformative impact of cross-cultural interactions. They illustrated how residing and working in different regions can lead to substantial personal growth and opportunities to assist others. Hong Kong, in particular, exemplified the remarkable fusion of cultures and opportunities for innovation and collaboration, providing a unique view on global interconnectedness. This broader perspective encourages young people to consider the wider consequences of their actions and aim to utilize their skills and talents to positively impact the world, nurturing a sense of purpose that goes beyond personal ambitions.
A Two-Way Street:
What stood out about the "Take a Break on Us" event was the amazing engagement and intelligence of the students. Their insightful questions, thoughtful comments, and enthusiasm created a truly dynamic and rewarding experience. It wasn't just me sharing my story; it was a two-way conversation. I learned so much from them, gaining a fresh perspective. Their passion, dedication, and desire to learn were inspiring.
Conclusion:
The journey from school to adulthood is a big adventure. Mentors and role models are invaluable guides, offering the support, guidance, and inspiration needed to navigate life's complexities. Events like "Take a Break on Us" connect what's taught in school and real-world experiences, equipping young people to thrive. It reinforced the idea that life is much more than just exams; it's a journey of experiences, relationships, challenges, and triumphs – and one that's enriched by the wisdom and inspiration shared between generations.
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