Chalk and Board: Heels of Success: Inspiration blog # 3

 

Today we are going to embark on another journey, to trace more footprints, another story of hope. Yet I am a bit nervous on this one as it is not easy writing about your mentor, afraid that words will fall short. A story which you are emotionally invested in. A story you have observed at every stage. I cannot do full justice to it without a bit of background.

So here it goes. I was four years old, when I received the most beautiful gift ever. Such that till date, it has been etched somewhere in my mind. It was a red cover book titled “The Red Riding Hood.” I know you must be thinking, what’s so special about a Ladybird book? It was the book which introduced me to the world of literature. I marvelled at the words, lost in imagination. It was a point where I became the red riding hood, and she became me. The book was gifted to me by none other than my sister, who at that time was seven. It was fun, we both had the same passion, she with such ease and grace. The person who clapped hard and cheered the most, yes, she, my mentor.

So beautiful people let’s climb the Boda Boda and travel on the rough terrains of a particular street, in a small city called Tanga, Tanzania. Now, Tanga is a place which is close to my heart. Sweet memories at our grandmother’s house with our cousins, so in one way, it’s second home, too. Now Tanzanians are very well known for their generosity and kindness. Waiting for us is none other than the very sweet, extremely talented Sakina Dossaji. Let’s dive right into it.

Tell us something about yourself.

You can call me an educator, writer, poet. All these define me. Make me who I am. My journey started way back when I was 13 years old. I wrote a poem on "drugs" in school which won the second-best prize and featured in the national newspaper. There was no looking back. I took part in debates, was part of the school newspaper team, I also presided over the school Literary Club and that was the beginning of my journey. I discovered my passion for teaching when I came to Tanga at a very tender age. It was a unique experience. Those young innocent faces, the feeling that you are a part of moulding a complete new generation, building their foundation. I discovered practical teaching methods which were way beyond the chalk and board. I founded a Kid’s Curiosity Club during the weekends where we did science practical's, art and craft, debate and spelling bees, themed parties, activities, treasure hunt, cookery, sand play, water balloon play and general knowledge. In between I took tuitions, online tutoring. It was a difficult phase. Having three young kids, I worked more; I slept less.

Tell us something about your educational journey, strengths, challenges?

All I knew was that I had to keep on going. I also had a brief exciting journey in a foreign land where I was the Preschool Business Manager and Administrator. I received several accolades for writing. I am also a proud member of World Nation writers’ union Kazakhstan. An alumna of North American Centre, a diploma in Montessori teaching. I have self-published on Amazon Kindle my book titled, “Ebb and Flow of Relationships.”

I have contributed to the Citizen newspaper under the diva section on “Relationships.” I have also co-authored anthologies, Spark of hope, volume 1 and 2, Crossroads. A recipient of honorary awards of Gujrat sahitya Akademi award during India’s 74th Independence Day and Trinidad and Tobago’s Independence Day. I got the honour of reciting a poem at COWAP’s meet in Rwanda, a truly beautiful experience. I also had the privilege of reciting a poem about Jane Goodall when she visited Arusha. That was a very emotional moment when she personally came up to shake my hand in appreciation.

My biggest strength is my positive attitude towards work and resilience to setbacks, determination to climb the mountain, the joy of reaching the peak. For me, my work is my worship! In the teaching sector, you can either make or break children. Teachers have a very major responsibility to raise the future farmers, doctors, police officers or even the president.

Currently, I am a housewife, as my struggle for citizenship continues. Somewhere along the lines, I had some health issues too. But I believe in my dream. I know this too shall pass. Perhaps this was the thing I needed to slow down and reflect on myself. Everything happens for a reason.

Where do you see yourself in the next one year?

I believe in dreams coming true! I see myself presiding as a head of an entire team so that I can introduce new ideas and methods to the teaching faculty.

What message do you have for women out there?

My message is that it is never too late to live your dream. The internet is a learning tool for many, providing vast opportunities. We women find it hard to juggle between home and work. But not making use of your talent is a waste. Teaching is a wonderful, gratifying career to those who want to pursue. It is a sacred place where learning and teaching is involved. The pay is average, but extremely rewarding.

My message to the world is to be kind, don’t be judgmental, become the best version of yourself, improve in bettering your flaws, spread love and light. Look carefully around you. There are people suffering from depression, mental health. Uplift them from the chaos they are entangled in.

Be the woman that fixes another woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.

With that we concluded the conversation. The last statement making a lasting impression.

Every time I finish listening to stories, I feel as if I have lived different lives. I feel so humbled and full of gratitude when people share their stories with me. I believe having gratitude for everything regardless of everything life gives us is vital. When I talk to people, the emotions are raw, real, the sense of achievement, the struggles and despite everything holding your head high and moving on.

Reach out to me on sarrahkaps@gmail.com, if you feel you have an inspirational story to share.

If you can touch even one life, that’s a mission accomplished!

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” Albert Einstein.

“Teachers can change lives with just the right mix of chalk and challenges.” Joyce Meyer.

“I am not a teacher, but an awakener.” Robert Frost.

Enjoy this article with freshly brewed masala chai, infused with cardamoms. The enthralling aroma of tea brewing is just something else. And if you are fasting, like the way I am, have a blessed month.

Cheers!

Sarrah Murtaza

E-book written by Author:

Amazon.com: HEART ME KNOT: A story of hope eBook : Murtaza, Sarrah: Kindle Store