Resilience is about finding purpose and strength in the face of challenges: Sa’diyya Nesar

Youth have the power to advocate for a society where everyone is valued for his or her individuality. As inclusivity starts with each one of us, and young voices are essential in this movement, said Sa’diyya Nesar, a poet, author, disability rights advocate and a TEDx speaker, during an interactive session with youth held at IPS, in collaboration with the Youth Association of Pakistan, on November 01, 2024.

Sa’diyya was born with muscular myopathy, a condition that affects her muscles. Through her books, Hearts that Remember and Strength from Within, she has spoken about her life, breaking stereotypes, and finding strengths in facing challenges.

The event, held in a Q&A format, allowed students and young people to engage with the speaker, who shared her personal experiences, strategies for resilience, and a vision for a more inclusive world.

The session began with introductory questions that set the stage for a candid discussion about Nesar’s background and the path that led her to become an author and vocal advocate for disability rights. She highlighted the motivation behind her books and her hope that readers will walk away with a renewed understanding of disability and strength.

“Writing has been a way for me to express my inner strength and share it with others. I want my readers to feel empowered and to challenge their own perspectives”, she said.

On personal empowerment and resilience, she spoke about her approach to facing life’s obstacles with positivity and grace. She explained that resilience is not about never struggling; it is about finding strength, purpose and growth through challenges, encouraging young people to cultivate self-empowerment through self-awareness, self-care, and a proactive mindset.

Responding to questions on advocacy, she underscored the importance of societal change to build a more inclusive community for people with disabilities. She emphasized the role young people can play in this transformation, highlighting their ability to drive change in their communities through active support, advocacy, and fostering understanding.

In the concluding segment, which focused on community and relationships, she encouraged the audience to overcome social barriers and cultivate meaningful connections across diverse backgrounds. Reflecting on her personal journey, she stressed the impact of supportive relationships and community on achieving her goals and staying resilient. “We grow through the connections we make. My family and community have been a source of strength, reminding me that we’re never truly alone in our journey,” she added.