Nyari Mashayamombe – Editor in Chief
In this interview Identities Media (IM) caught up with Suraiya Essof (SE) to learn and catch up about her exciting life. We are thrilled to bring this story to you. Sit back, Relax and Enjoy!
IM: Tell us about yourself.
SE: My name is Suraiya Essof. I am the Founder and Director of Kites for Peace, cofounder of the Zimbabwe Cares Network, small business owner, organizational development consultant , trained industrial psychologist and educator and winner of 2018 Eatout movement awards for Social Innovation
IM: What would you like to be remembered for?
SE: I would like to be remembered for effecting social change through kite flying and other recreational activities.
Educating the youth on what peace means and why it is important to be at peace within yourself in order to effect peace within your community and ultimately the world at large.
Empowering the youth to be examples and educators to adults in their simple approach to big issues, reminding them that unity and brotherhood, instead of division are key to achieving peace.
Helping people find contentment and fulfillment through pursuing their purpose passionately, as a means to achieving inner peace. Developing life skills in children, such as innovation and invention through kite making.
Promoting unity and compassion through advocating for charitable community organizations. Advocating for peace and unity across all races, religions, cultures, income levels and political ideologies.
Being a humanitarian that is dedicated to the wellbeing of all living beings, rejecting violence, promoting goodwill, uplifting and helping others, listening to understand and preserving the planet.
IM: What drives the work that you do?
SE: My children drive my work. I not only want a better world for them, I also want to equip them to be strong and compassionate individuals who will be valuable citizens of the world, ones that will be part of the change for a better world.
This is the wish of many parents. Children inherently have an unbiased view of the way the world works and they can be our greatest teachers, if we are open to learning from them.
Teaching is my passion. Teaching peace, teaching compassion teaching love and teaching people how to organize for peace, compassion and love effectively.
IM: What do you see in the near future?
SE: I believe I have a path, while I am uncertain where exactly this will lead even in the near future, I am certain that if l live in my purpose then it will be good for me and my loved ones. I wish to grow the movement for peace by partnering globally with peace organizations.
Nationally I would love to see kite making and flying become a recognized recreational activity in all schools in all communities in Zimbabwe.
On a community level I wish to see more organizations across all causes working in unity towards the betterment of society.
I wish for economic prosperity in our country so that my business and others can be maintained, so that we may all continue our philanthropic efforts in a sustainable way.
IM: What are your parting words or advice?
SE: Find what brings you joy and gives you a sense of purpose and contentment, within yourself, your family, your work and your community and use this to bring peace to yourself, your family, your work and your community.
Go outside, and find freedom in play. Be creative. Be friends with your loved ones. Be kind to everyone, no matter what, including yourself.
Be an asset to your community and build it. Find your joy to find your peace. World peace starts from within.
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