Qatar Foundation’s Education City high school students presented nine inspiring talks through ‘Ru’ya’, a TEDx-style event showcasing their creativity, passion, and growth with impactful stories.

Among the speakers, Grade 12 students Almayasa al-Wadaani and Hussein al-Lami shared their journey of starting businesses while still in school.

“People often say you need to wait until you’re older to start something meaningful,” said al-Lami. “But we’re here to prove that you don’t need to wait for the perfect time. The time to start is now.

“Age is not a barrier; it’s an opportunity. Being young means we bring fresh ideas and unique perspectives to the table. Don’t let fear of failure stop you, it’s part of the journey.”

Reflecting on her own experiences, al-Wadaani said: “There were moments when people doubted us, saying we were too young to understand the complexities of business. But those doubts only fuelled our determination. Every challenge was a lesson, and every setback was a stepping stone.”

Al-Wadaani added: “Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a company. It’s about solving problems, thinking creatively, and pushing yourself to grow. These are skills that will serve you in school or any path you choose in the future.”

On the same stage, Grade 11 student Aleen Okour shared her journey of overcoming her fear of public speaking, saying: “Public speaking used to terrify me. The thought of standing on stage, making mistakes, or embarrassing myself was overwhelming. But I realised that fear was just a barrier I needed to break.

“Filling out the form to become a speaker at this event was the hardest part. My brain kept telling me I wasn’t ready, but I knew I had to challenge that voice holding me back.”

Okour explained how fear often disguises itself as a protective mechanism. “Our brain interprets change as a threat, releasing stress hormones to keep us safe. But those feelings are just a sign that something great is waiting on the other side.”

Through visualisation techniques, Okour found a way to manage her anxiety. “I would take a moment before stepping on stage to picture myself speaking confidently and engaging with the audience. This helped me focus on my message rather than my fear.”

For Okour, public speaking became more than just a skill – it was a journey of transformation. “It’s not about being perfect. It’s about sharing your ideas and connecting with people. Each challenge I faced made me stronger,”

Encouraging others, Okour concluded: “The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most important. You might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”

Ru’ya, a student-led initiative, provides a platform for students to exchange ideas, share experiences, and inspire one another. By fostering meaningful conversations and connections, it empowers students to grow as individuals and leaders.