Azra's Journey through the KEY+ Challenge
When Azra first heard about the KEY+ Challenge, she didn’t hesitate: “The idea of planning an event my whole school and community including my group members could enjoy was what made me want to do it.”
That simple motivation marked the start of a three-stage journey that not only brought her school community closer, but also helped Azra discover just how capable she really is.
Turning Plans to Reality
Azra’s group, part of their school’s faith, culture and worldviews diversity group, took on three ambitious projects – beginning with games and fundraising at a Christmas Fayre and growing into an Eid celebration and a school-wide diversity festival.
Azra told us about the inspiration for these projects: “Stage one was Christmas Fair – it was getting close to Christmas, so we decided to give it a go. Stage two – it was Ramadan and me and my friend, being from a Muslim culture, brought the idea to the rest of the group. Stage three? We wanted to celebrate diversity.”
Throughout each project, Azra and her team shared responsibilities: “My group and I all had shared roles where everyone had a go. There was no particular role assigned. I enjoyed working with my friends and having fun.”
Working with people she already felt close to helped her thrive: “Being friends before the project helped us a lot – we weren’t uncomfortable with each other at all.”
From nerves to newfound confidence
Still, there were moments of doubt. One stood out more than the rest as Azra said, “the pitch was the part I was most nervous about but soon I overcame it.”
It was just the beginning of many new skills Azra would pick up – skills she says have stayed with her. “I am definitely more confident with talking to people in general, also people with authority. I also feel more organised with my time and energy and my priorities.” And perhaps most importantly: “Adults are not scary to work with.”
Azra also discovered that teamwork isn’t always easy – even among close friends: “We argued a few times, even arguing about arguing but we all ended up agreeing on the middle path.”
But the biggest challenge for Azra was time. She said: “I felt a bit of pressure but working with my group helped ease it by sharing the workload.”
And by the final stage – organising the school diversity festival – Azra had grown into a more confident, focused version of herself with the groups facilitator noting how the group had thrived by Stage 3, starting off quiet and reserved and becoming more confident.
A proud moment
Azra’s group didn’t just complete all three stages – they were recognised as KEY+ Completers of the Year at the Key Awards.
“When we went to The Key Awards, I was proud of my group and myself for working hard to reach where we are now.”
The highlight of the whole experience? “Having fun with my group at the events and seeing many people also having fun.”
Looking ahead
After working for The Key for a week as part of her work experience, Azra reflected on this opportunity saying it was “Amazing.” “I get to see what goes on behind the scenes to make these events and projects possible.”
And when it comes to the future? She’s already feeling more prepared: “I can confidently talk about all the skills I have learned through my KEY+ journey.”
So, what would Azra say to someone thinking about doing the KEY+ Challenge? “That it isn’t complex, it’s very simple, especially with many wonderful people working alongside you.”
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