Opetusmateriaalit: valmistava opetus

 A Dream That Everyone Feels Valued 

If someone differs from the majority in any way – whether in skin colour, religion, or sexual orientation – the hurtful words and actions of others may create the impression that they are less valuable than others. "I dream that every child, every adult, and every young person feels valued – not despite their differences, but because of them." These were the words of Mustafe Muuse, who was chosen as the Role Model of the Year, in his emotional speech at the Sports Gala. 

His speech was widely praised on social media, and its themes of equality, hope, and dreams were seen as simple yet deeply significant. Perhaps his words unearthed long-buried dreams in the hearts of the listeners, inspiring them to pursue what they had once set aside. In my opinion, the truth is that our differences allow us to shape our own identities, and this individuality is what brings value to human life. 

It is dreams that give life meaning. However, no one should be in a situation where they dream of being valued and accepted for who they are. These fundamental rights should be a reality without the need to dream about them. Likewise, things such as hobbies should not be privileges but civic rights, regardless of whether one was born here or came from somewhere else, as Muuse emphasized in his speech. 

The attention Muuse’s speech received on social media is the result of many factors. However, at the heart of it was his calm and convincing presence, as well as his background and journey to where he is today. Muuse, a native of Turku with Somali roots, grew up in a large single-parent family and, like many children with immigrant backgrounds, faced harassment, bullying, and racism. He felt like he was almost the only different child in his elementary school. 

Despite all this, he persisted forward. His mother refused to buy him a gaming console, and since he had no friends, Muuse spent his time reading stacks of books to fight off boredom. Later, he also took up athletics. In addition to succeeding in sports, Muuse graduated with four laudatur grades in his matriculation exams, which he attributes to his extensive reading as a child. 

As a young person with an immigrant background, I deeply relate to Muuse’s story. I hope that young people searching for direction in life, regardless of their background, see Muuse as a role model. Stories like his show that success ultimately depends on oneself – even when the environment places obstacles in the way and one's starting line is farther back than others’. 

At the end of his speech, Muuse reminds us that instead of focusing on judging others, we should focus on who is the first to help. "Whether we are athletes, spectators, or fellow travellers, every single one of us can be the one who extends a hand to those who have fallen" Muuse concludes. 

Aayush Khadka