Today we’d like to introduce you to Anum Ali.
Anum, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was eleven years old when I moved to the United States. The culture shock was so real – it shook me. I remember going to eighth grade and thinking to myself, “what would it take for people to be kind and empathetic towards others?” I am from country seven seas away and there is one thing that is common amongst all communities and societies: the need for connection.
When we truly think about what drives us as humans and what motivates us to achieve our goals, it is incredible to understand that we strive to belong and feel worthy of love. Love and belonging are the focal points of survival. I want to enhance on this notion as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and help people who have struggles, challenges, and circumstances which make it difficult for everyday progress, contentment, and enhancement in the quality of life.
My personal experiences in life have inspired me to give back to the community of Houston and make a difference. I believe that people want to feel valued and heard without judgments and biases; I want to be the voice for mental health advocacy in Houston and contribute towards diminishing the stigma that is attached.
The stigma that continues to be attached to some societies, unfortunately, is disadvantageous and detrimental for people who may be suffering from mental illness. Therefore, being a counselor, I would fulfill my mission and vision by supporting the vulnerable populations through advocating for human empowerment.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I often reflect on the hardships I have experienced and the outcome of facing certain hard times. One of the reasons I rose strong from the challenges was due to the support system my community has built for all individuals. I have to say, being an Ismaili Muslim female is truly an honor for me and it has taught me a lot of incredible lessons.
Although, being from an immigrant family of four did come with some unique experiences, trials, and tribulations, my parents did everything in their power to provide for me and support my education. I will forever be grateful for their hard work, sacrifice, and determination. My mother, Roshan Ali, always says, “Believe in yourself and success will follow”. I’m now truly grasping and understanding how true that is… that nothing worth having comes easy. My journey has had ups and downs but I will continue to keep my focus on my goals and some day, be the person I have always envisioned myself to be.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a graduate student at the University of Houston Victoria-Katy pursuing M.Ed Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also work full time at a nonprofit organization, Social Safety Net – which is very near and dear to me.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I think I would have started my graduate school sooner and I would have definitely chosen Psychology as my first option during undergraduate school.
Contact Info:
- Email: alianam@gmail.com
- Instagram: @life-of-anum
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
