Getting through school can be a real challenge.
In addition to the schoolwork, we’re all learning who we really are, making friends and deciding what we want to do in the future. For some of us, however, that process is made even more difficult when we seem different. We may even attract the attention of bullies. All of this can make what should be a fun and enriching experience an unpleasant one.
That was the case for 16-year-old Musharaf Asghar.
Musharaf was the star of Educating Yorkshire, a British reality TV show following students’ lives.
Musharaf (or “Mushy” as he is sometimes affectionately called) is by all accounts a good student. He is smart, passionate about science and a regular contributor in class. The only issue is when it comes to English, it is sometimes difficult to speak up. That’s because he has a stammer, a speech impediment.
To graduate high school, Musharaf needed to give an oral presentation.
Fortunately, someone decided to put in extra time to help Musharaf prepare.
That was Musharaf’s passionate English teacher, Mr. Burton. Burton had been Musharaf’s teacher since sixth grade and admired his efforts in class:
“His contribution is absolutely wonderful. He could be completely forgiven for not putting his hand up and for not wanting to communicate in any way, shape or form, but he doesn’t.”
But Mr. Burton had an ingenious idea to help Musharaf complete his speech.
After watching The King’s Speech, Mr. Burton had Musharaf practice speaking while listening to music.
And the music worked incredibly! With a little help, Musharaf was finally able to develop his own voice. Still, there was practice to be done before his final speaking exams at the end of the year. Burton and Musharaf worked together diligently to make sure Musharaf was ready.
At the end of it all, Musharaf gave a speech addressing his entire school.
After hearing Musharaf’s words, there isn’t a dry eye in sight in the auditorium.
This story is incredible for so many reasons. Everyone can relate to the growing pains of being young and of having teachers and mentors that helped us through. Still, few people have the difficulties with communication that Musharaf had to face. By working with Mr. Burton and believing in himself, Musharaf was able to overcome it all.
Not to mention—Musharaf is something of a star now in the UK!
Today, Musharaf is a YouTuber and motivational speaker with more than 21,000 followers on his Twitter account. Needless to say, he has made incredible strides and continues to inspire all of his viewers.
Congratulations, Mushy!
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Gogglebox: Educating Yorkshire
The incredible results of a teacher’s support and a student’s courage.
The brand new series, Educating Greater Manchester, continues Thursday 9pm.Posted by Channel 4 on Wednesday, September 6, 2017
