What was your childhood like?
Exciting – my childhood was exciting! I lived with my parents, younger sister, Nani, and Nana, and for a while, my Khalas as well. There was never a dull moment. I learnt something from everyone: my Nani taught me how to plant tomatoes in the garden; my Khala taught me to use a computer; my mom taught me to ride a bike. That’s the best part about growing up in a joint family. There’s so much love and so much excitement surrounding you at all times!
Who has been your greatest mentor?
I know this sounds a bit cliché, but the person I truly call my mentor is my mom. Even when I was a child, she’d treat me like an adult. She gave me the space to grow, learn, and share my opinions and thoughts. Whenever I set a goal for myself, she did everything in her power to facilitate it. She led by example – I watched her live her life as a strong, motivated woman. I hope one day my kids can say that about me too.
How did you raise money for the humanitarian projects of Al-Wasila trust?
When my mother and I began collecting money for Al-Wasila, it was just a slow day-to-day process. We never had any specific amount in mind. We collected the money as it came and simply handed it over to Al-Wasila. Our role in raising the money was simple: we spread the word and watched the kindness pour in. People have great hearts, and once a small act of goodness begins, everyone joins in. I didn’t raise the money for Al-Wasila – we all did together.
How do you see this world? Is there hope for good times to come?
The world is polarizing: the bad is getting worse and the good is becoming better. When there is so much evil happening in the world, it gives us a chance to unite against it by coming together with hopes of doing the good. The world finds its equilibrium – goodness shines brighter when there is so much of darkness around. I do believe good times are ahead, as we are slowly learning how to live in a world where there is so much pain. There are so many opportunities to make a difference, so we just have to seize them.
Being a full-time student, how do you find time for your community service?
You don’t have to find time for your passion – it finds its way into every part of your life. I grew up in a household where my grandparents were constantly involved in community service. They didn’t set aside time for it. They just lived a life, where every moment was spent in helping others.
For me, it was natural to remain active in the community while studying. Thinking about it now, it was actually the other way around: I didn’t have to take time out for community service. I had to take time out specifically for my studies, because I’d often get involved in projects and would not want to focus on academics.
There are 24 hours in a day. If you have the passion, you’ll find the time.
Looking into the future, do you have any ideas to work with regarding philanthropic projects or it will just continue to be on the sideline?
A few weeks ago, I spoke to the head of a very well-known social welfare organization in Pakistan. I wanted to take a gap year and fully commit myself to working with her. However, she advised me something else. She emphasized on the need for educated individuals to commit themselves to philanthropic work. Following her advice, I’ll be going to university this fall, Insha’Allah. I plan to pursue degree in Sociology – the study of society. When you understand how society works, you are better equipped to be able to make a positive change. I plan on working part-time on projects while I study, and in a few years, working full-time with a welfare organization, Insha’Allah.
What are your past times?
In the little time, when there isn’t a ton of exam work, I read, write my blog and exercise! I also spend a significant part of my free time with my family – that’s always a good stress relief.
Who do you want to be one day?
A person of substance – someone who strives to live a life that means something and who chooses to participate rather than be a spectator in life, in order to be part of the solution as opposed to the problem.
What are the positive traits and resources about your generation that can bring healing and impact to the world?
Despite all the negativity surrounding the millennials, I do believe we are a generation of social justice warriors. There are a lot more people willing to stand up against and fight for the truth. We raise our voices, and with the aid of technology, our voices are heard. The youth of today are bothered by the injustice they see around them – and they’re actively doing their best to try and fight cruelty in the world. Entrepreneurship in millennials is on the rise – they are independent, not afraid, and dedicated to making a difference. Seeing them, it gives me hope that the future won’t be as scary as it seems right now.
What should the youth change about itself today to create a meaningful impact?
We need to stop getting distracted. We have our hearts in the right place, but this world is full of distractions that allow you to zone out of the ugliness around you and allow everyone to live in their own bubbles. The youth needs to realize their power and the impact they can have on the world, as long as they stay vigilant and aware of the world around them.
Hiba prays for your success and guidance. We are excited about all the great opportunities out there for you to heal Allah’s (swt) world.
Interview conducted by Rana Rais Khan
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