Describe someone whom you look upon as a role model.
I was at a Hi-tea that my parents had to attend. They didn’t want to leave me home so I had to tag along. I hated every moment of it until, a young man not much older than me walked into the room. There was an aura of authority about him. Even the elderly VIPs stood up and waited to greet him. Young, handome, obviously rich and very friendly. Suddenly, the Hi-tea did not seem too bad.
I was 15 and very interested in making money and becoming rich but I did not know how. I normally wait unitil my father introduces me to the guests but this time something about him beckoned me. I went up to him and introduced myself,
"Hi, I’m Billy,’’
"Hello,’’ he replied with a smile, "I’m Hisham.’’
The name did not ring a bell and I think he knew I did not know who he was.
"I’m Hisham, Hisham Santiago.’’
I felt the blood go to my feet. This was the Santiago… the young millionaire that my parents would often talk about. He was only 20 but was a self-made internet millionaire.
"Oh, my goodness! I’m sorry. I did not recognise you. You look so terribly young.’’
"I’m sorry to disappoint you,’’ he replied and then we both burst out laughing.
The funny thing is… for some reason, he told his personal assistant to block off half an hour for me!! In that half an hour, from 3.30 to 4.00 pm, I became a changed person.
Hisham didn’t tell me the easy way to become a millionaire. He told me that I had to have passion in what I wanted to do. He told me that passion alone was not enough, he warned me that I had to be committed. He showed me that consistency and patience were two other important factors for success. He pointed out that I had no goals, no proper vision, no plan…
Hisham was the kind of person I wanted to become. And he is helping me. At the moment, he reminded me that my focus was getting through my exams with flying colours. With his help, I am learning to concentrate and do what I have to do and learning to like studying too!!!
He insisted that I must get a good and strong foundation in my studies. He has been guiding me and counselling me. I know now that wealth is not everything but it is important.
Hisham Santiago is someone I admire and respect. He is humble and not arrogant like other wealthy people. He is kind and always treats people with great respect. He shares his wealth with the unfortunate. He listens attentively to what his fans have to say.
Someday, I hope I become a person with such admirable qualities. Perhaps, someday, someone will also write about me as his role model.