@muslim.sg: I recently had the opportunity to facilitate a forum theatre at the M³ + Youth Festival, exploring the story of a young person caught between her responsibilities, circumstances and her passion for silat. I had to facilitate the discussion, hear the youths’ perspectives and eventually share some reflections together with Ustazah Nur Hidayah Azman. But after the session, who ended up with more reflections? It was me. One of the youths stood up to speak in support of the character, who was struggling with having decisions made for her. That moment gave energy in the room. I felt many resonated with her, and more perspectives came up. I then realised that I actually miss being around young people. Their raw ideas, bustling energy and huge potential. If these are tapped on well, imagine what we can achieve. It reminded me of something I have always believed: our youth do care, and they care courageously. Their young lenses sometimes can make us think of the unthinkable, but it is also a much-needed trigger of thoughts. We sometimes do not give enough credit about our youths' presence and contribution to the community. I could see what we can nurture in our youth. Confidence. For them to know their value and potential. It should not be defined by earnings, followers or recognition. The true worth is in striving and hustling for Allah's pleasure. Resilience. It is not always about standing strong. Sometimes, it is also about finding the strength to persevere when our energy is almost gone, trusting Allah’s promise that with hardship comes ease. Not after it or even without it. Empowerment. Such a big word, but the essence of it is in giving, to discover the meaning of life. When we become stronger, we should also help others become stronger with us. And the 'we first' mentality. We need our youth in every part of our community. We need their voices, ideas and energy. But we also need to walk alongside them, guide them and give them the space to contribute and lead. Maybe the question is not whether our youth are ready. Maybe we should ask whether or not we are the ones who are ready to make space for them. Our youth are not just the future. They are already part of the change we need today. A big shoutout to Big Mouth Production for the amazing facilitated forum theatre and for creating such a meaningful space for dialogue. And thank you to M³, MuslimSG and AYN for giving me the opportunity. It was meaningful and memorable, and hopefully will energised me to strive in the work I do, insya Allah. 🔗 Join fellow youths for more meaningful conversations at the upcoming NEXTGEN Youth Symposium 2026: go.gov.sg/nextgen26 - Ustaz Ahmad Faritz, Asatizah Youth Network

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Friday 28 August 2026 09:54:41 GMT