The first Egyptian to climb Mount Everest enthralls AUS audience

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) Student Leadership Program, in cooperation with the Egyptian Cultural Club, hosted acclaimed motivational speaker Omar Samra on Wednesday, October 5. Samra is the first Egyptian and the youngest Arab to climb Mount Everest.

Samra began his lecture "The Pursuit of Dare" by telling students about his will and determination for challenge and how he followed his dreams to turn them into reality. His storytelling skills kept the audience gripped as he narrated his entire experience of summiting Mount Everest step-by-step. He used his mountain climbing experiences as a tool to help motivate and inspire the audience, which consisted of students, faculty and staff.

During the talk, Samra emphasized the importance of believing that nothing is impossible. "We all have our unique passions and aspirations. Always try and see that one thing that makes you tick and go after it," said Samra. "Always follow your intuition because it knows best about what you need to do," he added, stating how it is individuals that draw boundaries about what they can and cannot do.

"The lecture served as an inspirational means for students to learn the uniqueness of turning their dreams into reality and how to overcome any obstacles in the way. We encourage students to make their own opportunities and want them to realize that life has no limitations except the ones they make. Chase after your dreams, inspire others, and leave behind a trail for others to follow by being sound examples in the community," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.

The enthusiastic audience bombarded Samra with questions at the end of the presentation, wanting to better understand and learn from his experiences.