The Speech

As promised, the text of the speech I gave. If you have no idea what I am on about then you may want to check THIS post out.

Growing up in Hackney, I am like any other Hackney Citizen in that there has always been a desire to be successful at everything I do so that one day, I can help my family, my community and the underprivileged of society. I am currently studying English at University, a choice which did not go without its criticisms due to the stereotypes regarding it. In fact, I have had to challenge stereotypes all my life. Whether it is because of my race, religion or social background and more recently degree choice or even the infamous reputation of Hackney, I have always challenged negative stereotypes and I hope I continue to do so as I go on in life even though it can become quite tiring at times as it seems like all of our hard work can be washed away by the next negative headline.

My education in Hackney has been a great experience. Sometimes I catch myself remembering how my year six teacher inspired me by sharing her own t collection of writing in order to encourage me to write. My teachers at Secondary were another major influence in my life as they helped instill in me the belief that I could go on to pursue something I enjoy. I was lucky enough to have Bsix College five minutes away from my house so when I studied my A-levels, that was the place I went. As part of this community, our secular education was always framed by our religious education which I think worked hand in hand with each other to allow us to develop into well-mannered and hard-working individuals.

Alhamdulillah, with hard work, dedication and with my mind focussed on the main goal allowed me to complete college with Three As in Politics, English and History. However, it seemed to me that my friends and family were more happy than I was and it was for the simple fact that I knew the struggle was not over. I am nearing the first year of my English degree at King’s College London and I hope to go on to become a journalist in order to give a greater voice to the concerns of the Muslim community as well as continuing to challenge the tsunami of misconceptions about Muslims in today’s world. I hope that our actions as a local Muslim community go on to prove to the people of Britain and the world that we are people who love peace and who share the same concerns and worries as the ordinary person on the street.