Power of a stranger: Salem Humaid Al Shamsi’s memoir is inspirational

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

“Stranger in our Market”, the debut book by Ajman-born Salem Humaid Al Shamsi, published by Manorama Books, is a roller coaster ride of a read. At nearly 200 pages, it could be considered a bildungsroman memoir by the author, as he courageously bares the experiences and observations of his life, with a happy childhood in Ajman, a proud military interlude in the UAE armed forces, his occupation as an employee and a tumultuous business career. It is a remarkable story of a person who made his way from the comparative quiet of then-Ajman to the hustle and bustle of Abu Dhabi and the exuberant shores of the USA studying army life, to switching places as an employee and later becoming an entrepreneur in Dubai. Al Shamsi not only crossed barriers to absorb new knowledge, but also had to brave the perils of a business world, where dealing with betrayal was part of his worries. He opens out to Gulf Today

What made you write the book?

In 2015, I was invited to give a speech at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, during their open day to students on the cusp of graduation. As I stood before them, I spoke about the challenges they would face in the job market, referring to ourselves as “strangers in the market.” This metaphor resonated deeply, sparking curiosity and engagement from teachers, principals, and students who gathered around me afterwards, eager to explore the idea further. An American friend who was with me at the time suggested, “why don’t you write a story about your life and this speech?” His encouragement lingered in my mind, and over the course of seven years, I crafted this book, weaving together personal experiences and insights. It is my hope that this story inspires readers to embrace their uniqueness and navigate the unfamiliar with confidence and courage.

How did you do the research?

Writing this book was a journey of introspection and perseverance. I began by reflecting on my own experiences and the core message of my speech, exploring what it truly means to be a “stranger in the market.” I revisited memories, lessons, and stories from my life that aligned with this theme. I spent countless hours writing and rewriting, often delving into my personal history and professional journey, to capture the essence of the message. I sought feedback from trusted friends and mentors, who helped me refine my ideas and storytelling. During the period, I balanced my writing with other responsibilities, driven by a desire to share a narrative that could resonate with others facing similar challenges. I was able to bring this book to life, hoping to inspire readers to embrace their own paths as strangers navigating new territories.

  The dust jacket of the book.

What links your childhood, army life, life as an employee and your aspirations as an entrepreneur?

Growing up, I learned the importance of curiosity and exploration. The early years instilled in me a sense of wonder and a desire to understand the world around me. My upbringing taught me to embrace challenges and to see them as opportunities for growth. Serving in the army was a transformative experience that taught me discipline, leadership, and the value of teamwork. The rigorous environment pushed me to my limits, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and strategic thinking. It also highlighted the significance of being adaptable and making quick decisions in unfamiliar situations. Working as an employee provided valuable insights into different industries and organisational structures. It was during this time that I honed my skills in communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. The entrepreneurial journey is filled with uncertainty, much like being a “stranger in the market.” My childhood curiosity, military discipline, and professional expertise have all contributed to my ability to navigate this path. My aspirations as an entrepreneur are driven by a desire to create meaningful impact and to inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

Do you think you were naïve to trust people?

Trusting people is an integral part of building relationships and achieving success, both in military and civilian life. In the army, trust and teamwork are essential for accomplishing missions, and these values can be incredibly beneficial when applied to civilian and entrepreneurial pursuits. While transitioning from the army to civilian life, I may have initially been more trusting than is typical in the business world. However, I’ve learned that while trust is important, it’s also essential to balance it with discernment and due diligence, especially in business.

How do you stand in the market today?

Today, the market is more mature and competitive than ever before, characterised by rapid technological advancements and informed consumers. Businesses must adapt quickly, focusing on innovation and differentiation to stand out. I position myself by leveraging unique insights and experiences, building strong relationships and embracing agility. By staying attuned to market trends and consumer needs, I aim to create value and drive growth in this dynamic environment.

What should be the takeaways from your book?

The key takeaways from my book are that motivation and unity are powerful forces that can overcome any challenge. No matter what obstacles you face, you have the ability to rise again, supported by the strength of those who stand by you. This message resonates universally, reminding readers that resilience, perseverance and collaboration, are essential to achieving success and personal fulfillment.