20-year-old Hajra was nominated for TrinityTalent Class of 2021 for Leadership. She achieved Gold Arts Award at Alhambra Theatre, where she ran sessions on monologue writing for a large class of ESOL students. She became an inspiration for these students who went on to use English as their second language to raise awareness of issues close to their own hearts including racism, the power of women and accepting immigrants.
Her Arts Award adviser and ESOL lecturer, Esther Wilkey said: "When Hajra joined my ESOL class she could not look anyone in the eye or speak up in class. For her Arts Award, Hajra wrote a monologue that addressed the issue of child abuse, then used it to explain monologue writing and recording to ESOL students. I could not have imagined the self-proclaimed wallflower becoming a voice for those who have suffered abuse as children, and then teaching a class of students in a confident and meaningful way."
The TrinityTalent Panel said: "Hajra's exploration of her cultural background and standing forward as a pillar of the community is truly inspiring. What she is doing goes beyond being a role model, she is actively influencing others and showing reflection and maturity in her work. She has demonstrated bravery by speaking about such an important issue to a large audience and realising her potential to be a strong leader."
How do you feel about being selected to be part of TrinityTalent Class of 2021 and being recognised in this way?
First of all, I feel so honoured to be the one that has been selected from so many deserving students. This is such a huge achievement for me as I never imagined myself, even in my dreams, being nominated for such a huge award.
How do you feel you have developed creatively and artistically in 2021?
2021 has been such a difficult year for everyone and we were all trying our best. Through all this I had more time to think about myself and my lifestyle.
What impact did your Arts Award achievement have on your artistic development?
Arts Award has had a great impact on me as I felt so amazing when my work was getting recognised a little bit and this gave me more motivation to work harder.
Has taking part in Arts Award helped you to develop wider skills, such as communication skills, creativity or confidence?
Yes, through Arts Award I had to do different types of activities with other people and by doing this, even though I hesitated in the beginning, at the end I could see why this was necessary for me and it helped my self-esteem.
What are the next steps for you artistically and creatively in 2022?
I will keep working on my abilities to make them even better.
What are your longer term aims, for example for your future studies or work?
Right now I am not sure as my mind is full of confusion, I think I'll figure it out as I do more things.
Have you got any advice for other young people working towards Arts Award?
I would just like to say that just because of one failure do not stop trying. Our only hope is the hope itself, so just keep that in mind and you'll achieve anything.
Read more about the talented young people selected to be featured as part of the TrinityTalent Class of 2021.
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