Nisma Rafiq

Saudi Gazette

 

The New Year is here. But let’s quickly take a look at what young children achieved in 2014.



2014 was full of events, where many people struggled to make a mark — and were successful in leaving behind a footprint. These successful and famous people can become your source of inspiration or your role models. You can look at them, and learn from them. Successful people show that hard work, despite numerous problems, and will power will help you achieve your goals. You just have to believe in yourself, your dreams, and have an I-will-never-quit attitude.



In 2014, many young children made the headlines, sending a message to the world that nothing is impossible. These young children, just like you, however took the extra effort to do something extra-ordinary.



Following are few extra-ordinary young children from whom you can gain inspiration.



Ten-year-old Faisal performed a stunt at the opening ceremony of New King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, where he was airlifted 40 meters high from the ground through an almost invisible harness into the royal gallery.  He presented King Abdullah with a crystal ball and in return the King rewarded him with his luxury Dupont pen. He was chosen from 170 children who auditioned for the role and trained intensely for three weeks prior to the display.



Laila, 10, has caught the attention of many. She designs her own thobes and for girls aged 3-14 under the brand name “Lulu Thobes.” She wanted young girls to have their own cultural identity instead of taking completely from the West. She had a successful display in Ramadan this year at Tashkeil. Salma, who is just 17, is the lead rider in the Afghan National Cycling team. It is almost rare to see women in Afghanistan working and competing alongside men. She has faced many difficulties, yet has dreams of waving the Afghan flag high in the Olympics. 



Malala, 17, has never been ordinary. She has been writing since 11 around the time when Taliban took over her hometown. Her love for education never ceased even when the schools in her town were shut down. She survived a gunshot and showed optimism and bravery. After her recovery, she has been campaigning for education and has received many awards including the Noble Peace Prize this year. She is the youngest Nobel winner in the history.



There might be many kids who tried to change themselves, but there are others who just could not do it. But it’s never too late to start. Take out your pen and notebook; jot down the things that you must change in yourself. As the saying goes, you must become the change you want to see in the world. So if you want others to be kind with you, be kind with them first. If you want others to share, take the first step and share.