We were lucky to catch up with Ayah Adventurer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ayah, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As a minority, you have to be aware that you belong anywhere in the world you want to be, even if some may try to make you feel otherwise. When you have that understanding, you know the only thing you really need to do is be yourself. I am confident in my abilities and know that the perspective I bring to any situation is valuable. Being the only one that looks like me provides me a great opportunity to share my unique voice and perhaps help others see things in a different light.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As a travel writer and content creator, the most exciting part for me is being able to combine my two passions (travel and writing.) I love inspiring others to see the world and showing people what’s possible. In representing my Black and Muslim identities, I am able to both combat stereotypes and connect with people who can relate to my experience.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Never stop learning – Although I had a natural talent for writing, formal training was of great value to me. I think all aspiring writers can benefit from regularly reading the work of others as well as taking writing courses. Whether you want to enroll in a degree program or a month-long class, there are so many courses available, catering to every type of writer and niche.
An authentic voice – Develop your own distinct voice and style that is uniquely you. You can accomplish this by honing in on your interests and topics you are passionate about.
Networking skills – Do not underestimate the importance of networking and building relationships. This remains one of the best ways to open doors to new opportunities. For introverted individuals like me, it can require us to step out of our comfort zones. But you can also network online. It doesn’t always have to be face-to-face.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to live for themselves, regardless of what anyone else thought or said. As an interracial couple, they faced difficulties from the beginning. My mom’s father disowned her for marrying a Black man. My dad was a hardcore punk rocker at a time when there weren’t many Black musicians in the genre. He dealt with racism on many fronts and even his own parents didn’t approve of how he lived his life. Neither of them allowed the opinions of others to dictate their choices.
Being raised by these bold, fearless individuals inspired me to do the same. And because of their experiences and beliefs, they never once tried to stop me from being who I wanted to be. Many Muslim reverts find themselves abandoned and cast out by their families after they leave their birth religion. I had zero doubts or fears about how my parents would react to this major change because I already knew how supportive and open-minded they were.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ayahadventurer
