27/05/2026
Why do you do what you do? And what keeps you going?
I ask because moments ago I was covered in goosebumps after reading a message that completely floored me - one that arrived totally out of the blue.
I recently had the honor of being on the TEDx stage alongside an incredible lineup of speakers, where we spoke about leadership.
With the memory of the TEDx event still top of mind and bottom of heart, I thought my heart was already full. Then this message hit me so hard and served as a powerful reminder of why I do what I do, and what keeps me going... all in one swipe.
'Greetings Dr Oudi,
When I was in 3rd grade, I spent the summer at a camp called Adrenagy in Khalifa Park. I remember you came and gave us a wonderful speech. I was a shy little boy amongst way bigger and older kids. That same year, you showed up at my school at the time, AISA.
I remember I came running to you and you actually recognized me. Fast forward I am now 21 years old and in my third year of medical school in Egypt. I coincidentally came across your profile and I knew that voice sounded familiar. I just wanted to say that you truly impacted my life and I genuinely never forgot you.
I’m extremely happy that the dots connected and I could now approach you and thank you as a man, not as that little kid that you coddled.
You were truly an inspiration, I went from that shy little kid to the valedictorian of my batch the year I graduated and you definitely played a massive role in that.'
Baker Razi Al Najmi
Feedback moves you forward. Especially the kind that reminds you why you do what you do and what keeps you going!
For me,and I bet for you too, it all comes down to touching people’s lives.
What is my next step? i invited Baker for a zoom call so i can thank him face to face for touching my heart and we are planning a coffee in july!!
Maybe that’s what leadership really is.
Not titles. Not stages. Not applause.
It’s the moments you never SaW coming… when someone quietly tells you that you made a difference.
