Muhammad Abdul Rahman Nadar Shah believes that the youth of the Kingdom can be productive and beneficial to the society in every way. — SG photo Amal Al-Sibai Saudi Gazette A round six months back, the government reconsidered its decision and allowed young men to enter shopping malls. As usual the decision was met with mixed reactions from members of the society, some were appalled whereas others accepted it half-heartedly cautious of going to the malls with their families. Many families believe that the youth of the nation are useless, a stereotype deeply embedded in most people's mind. They believe that all young Saudis are loud, flirtatious, chain-smokers obsessed with expensive cars, fancy clothes, and latest gadgets. However, it would be unjust to judge all young boys, who are the future of the Kingdom, as irresponsible based on a group of few who are deviated. Muhammad Abdul Rahman Nadar Shah, a 12 grader, has been successful in conquering and demolishing some negative stereotypes about the Saudi youth. He has proven to his community that the youth, when given the chance and support they need, can be productive, resourceful, compassionate, and beneficial to their society. Along with some good friends, Shah founded a non-profit training and support group –– Creators of the Future –– for young men and women interested in volunteerism. The group offers courses that help individuals boost their confidence, build communication and organizational skills, work on self-development, personal growth, future planning, among many others. The first of its kind group is rapidly gaining popularity in Jeddah. The number of members joining the group to acquire new skills have been phenomenal. It is also helping them build contact which can be of help to them in the future. Basically centered around volunteerism, Shah said: “ There is a great need for services that our group provides. Nowadays, volunteering has become very popular in Saudi society and everyone wants to volunteer and join a charity organization. The problem is that some young men and women simply drift from one activity to another without fully acquiring basic skills. Many of them lack a vision, clear goals, and the useful skills that would make their volunteer work more effective. This is where our group steps in to fill the vacuum.” “We help youngsters not only become better volunteers but also support and motivate them by developing leadership qualities, so that they can successfully lead their own projects in the future,” Shah added. Creators of the Future often get a hold of renowned speakers and educators to spark interest and in the minds of the younger generation. The group was created when Shah's English high school English teacher gave him an assignment to prepare a speech on the potential of the youth in the Kingdom. His school project got him thinking and creative juices flowing, leading him to his new found passion: promoting volunteerism and self-development among the young population in his community. The advantages of signing up are not only limited to volunteering, as the group also helps young entrepreneurs launch their own small businesses, showing them how to direct their energy and time in a more positive way. All courses offered by the non-profit group are free of charge. It is sponsored by Dallah Academy of Volunteerism and the participants are awarded certificates of attendance. The group has been successful in helping the talented ones nurture their skills, along with exposing them to the professional world. One such story is of Anmar Al-Kendi, a talented graphic designer. Al-Kendi attended a one week program held by Creators of the Future to augment his skills and get in touch with prominent businessmen and professionals in his field of interest. Immediately after the completion of the short program, Al-Kendi opened his own company and is now contracted by dozens of restaurants to design their logo, menus, and brochures.
