It’s okay to be different: Moustafa

Life coach and motivational speaker Moustafa was refused jobs even though he was well qualified. Today, he’s a business owner and a proud sportsman. 

In this feature, Moustafa, who also features in Mable’s new campaign, talks about disability stereotypes and giving people a fair go.

It’s okay to be different 

For Moustafa, the perception of disability needs to “evolve drastically”. 

“Growing up, there were jobs I applied for that I was often over-qualified for. I knew I didn’t get those jobs because I was in a wheelchair. It happened to me numerous times,” Moustafa says.

Moustafa, who is studying to be a psychologist, says, “Just because someone might need a modified table or can’t write doesn’t mean they are not qualified for a job. I can’t take quick notes, but I can use a dictaphone and have my assistant type them for me.”

“My disability is not going to stop me from being a psychologist or coaching other people.”

People assume a lot, he adds. “I’ve been in situations where people have assumed that I can’t talk. And they seem surprised when they find out I can.”

The only way forward is education, Moustafa says. “We need to educate people on how it’s okay to be different. People assume and make quick judgements and don’t give people like myself a fair go.” 

“I want to see people with disability given a chance.”

My kind of independence

Moustafa is one of those featured in Mable’s new ‘My kind of independence’ campaign. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Moustafa says. “I think it hit the nail on the head in regards to what Mable stands for and what it hopes to do in the future.”

“‘My kind of independence’ aligns with my values — being who you are, believing in yourself, doing the things you love. And that’s what I think Mable stands for: acceptance, inclusivity, respect and freedom.”