Don’t Give Up Hope

I participated in the Sibaq program, competing in Urdu Speech, Conversation, and Diary Writing. For months, I practiced tirelessly for these events. As the final days approached, I worked even harder, motivated by Kunjahmed Ustad, who told me, "You will secure the 1st position in all your programs at this Sibaq."

On the first day, I traveled to Pattambi. My Urdu Speech was scheduled for 10:00 AM at the third venue. My category coordinator, Safwan, was there to support me. As I stepped onto the stage, my legs and hands shivered with fear, but I delivered my speech loudly and clearly. Afterward, I ate Porota and Chicken curry and waited.

After Maghrib, the results were announced. I had reached the elimination round but only secured the 3rd position. I lost all hope and cried many times. My college brother, Ameen, and Kunjahmed Ustad tried to comfort me. Ameen said, "Tomorrow you have the Conversation event; you must practice for that."

I went to my room, where Ayaan and I practiced the conversation. We slept briefly, then woke up for Tahajjud and Subh prayers. When the competition started, my code letter was C. Ayaan and I went to the venue and presented our conversation well. Afterward, we went to the Masjid for Zuhr prayer, praying earnestly for success.

However, when the results were announced, I had received the 3rd position in the elimination round again. I felt hopeless. That is when Farooq Ustad advised me, "In the next Sibaq, you can get the 1st position in Urdu Speech, Inshallah. Don’t give up hope."