Every now and then you come across a story that makes you pause and wonder. It leaves you in awe of inspiration. A story that makes your own struggles and challenges look really small and gives you the courage and motivation to go on in life. It makes you realise that no matter what life throws at you, you have to take it, learn to adapt, turn it into your strength and move forward with a smile.
The story of Amna Hamid is one such tale. A Digital Marketing Strategist at Amreli Steels, her life’s struggle and journey, despite being differently abled and working for a big corporation, is inspirational and full of hope and determination.
WOW360.pk got the opportunity to sit down with Amna and have a heart to heart. Here is a glimpse of her unique journey.
Tell us a bit about your journey and the challenges you have faced
Disability tags anxiety and depression along. I clearly remember myself in tatters when I lost my ability to walk twenty one years ago. I was barely sixteen and in the final year of my O levels from Karachi Grammar School when I was adjourned from the court of normal life. Thanks to the encouragement of my amazing teachers, loving family and sincere friends, I decided to appear for the examinations and passed with an unbelievably impressive result which encouraged me to get through A levels in one year instead of two.
I then began applying to local and international universities for further studies and in this process, I stumbled upon the external studies programme at the University of London. Luckily, I made it in and began studying management and law as an external student.
What hindered you in completing your degree in management and law?
Unfortunately, my only tutor’s mother fell ill so she couldn’t devote time to me. I searched for more tutors but in vain. My world fell apart at this failure. Due to complex health issues, I couldn’t meet the objective of studying management and law. The next several years passed in a blur. I spent most of my time in the hospital between 2000 to 2012.
What inspired you to become a writer?
Four years ago, a long lost childhood friend, Noor Sheikh, came back into my life like a fresh breeze. She rejuvenated my writing skills by connecting me to Sunrise Plastics who were looking for a content writer for their website. They loved my work. Later, she introduced me to Mr. Hadi Akberali, Chief Operating Officer at Amreli Steels Limited, who was also looking for a content writer. I joined Amreli and Alhamdulilah there’s been no looking back ever since. Kudos to the marketing team who has been my strength all these years, especially my boss and mentor Mr. Mohsin Ali Sadiq.
Was it challenging in the beginning?
Initially when I started writing professionally, it felt like a stodgy process. I felt like a wavering echo amidst my struggle but, over time, I gained back my confidence. I self-taught myself how to troubleshoot my difficulties and how to work with my inner critic. I learned how to nurture healthy writing habits. Above all, I’ve cultivated the love of writing once again.
What other skills do you possess besides writing content?
Exploring the bliss of composition helped me become an influential writer. I began penning on a vast array of topics and won many hearts. Every word of appreciation pumped more life into my literature. Today, writing nourishes my soul and helps me earn a comfortable living Alhamdulillah. I even freelance to keep myself constructively occupied after work hours. My skills include Search Engine Optimization, creating marketing strategies, copywriting, editing, creating dynamic social media and blog posts, print content, product descriptions, academic writing, etc. I also bring to the table strong proficiencies in MS Office and Google Suite.
What else do you love doing as part of your hobbies, apart from writing? How do you enjoy your personal time?
I enjoy reading, poetry, cooking and baking in my free time. I even manage social media groups related to my interests. I often get invited to inspire and motivate people from all walks of life through my life journey. It brings me immense joy in uplifting sad souls. I’d consider myself successful if I’m able to spread more smiles. Never be thankless. Allah is the greatest! Just work hard and seek His help. Cheers!
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