SUCCESS: At 19 years of age, Aukash Zahid has already seen his work published in 19 books
SUCCESS: At 19 years of age, Aukash Zahid has already seen his work published in 19 books

Published poet promotes writing in schools

To forge a career in poetry is something very few people will ever get the chance to do, yet for one 19-year-old from Cambridge, he is already well on his way to becoming a famed wordsmith.

Aukash Zahid, who is currently studying at Kingston University, has already seen his work published in 19 separate books since he began his foray into the literary field four years ago.

Balancing his passion for writing with a modelling career, the young poet is an upcoming talent on the writing scene and recently launched his own CD from which his poems are recited.

LESSONS: Following his success in the literary field, Aukash has been invited into primary schools to help promote poetry in the youth
LESSONS: Following his success in the literary field, Aukash has been invited into primary schools to help promote poetry in the youth

Currently studying Journalism as a ‘back up plan’, he says it is his love for poetry which he hopes will pave a career for him, even sharing his skills with schools across the country.

“When I first started writing at the age of 15, I would have never imagined getting published in 19 books before the age of 19,” he said.

“In the Summer of 2014 I had a radio tour, from which I gained a lot of exposure.

“I was on quite a few TV shows during that time as well, and in September 2014, I was receiving offers from primary schools across the country to come in, and give their students poetry taster sessions and lectures on how I got into poetry.

“It was a great experience.  It was nice to see so many young children writing, and asking me for advice.

“I was amazed by a lot of the work the students produced.”

Whilst balancing the right rhythm with the right words is something Aukash now specialises in, he says his own experiences as a British Asian Muslim inspires much of his work.

Also labelling Muhammad Ali as an inspiration, he explained what messages he tried to share through his writing.

“Poetry is a great way to express your feelings,” he said. “Writing your feelings down is sometimes much easier than talking.

“When working on my poems, I like to touch on many sensitive topics, as I want my readers to be able to relate to what they are reading.

“During my school tour, a lot of my writing material was focused on bullying and mental health.  I believe it is important for children to be educated on these topics, as so many people fall victims of such hardship.”

Smile – by Aukash Zahid

A smile is an effortless gift to give,

And can improve someone’s day,

During tough times,

A smile is the best thing to display.

A smile can be used to hide your pain,

And your worries and tears,

A smile can be used as a blanket,

To cover up your fears.

A smile is your enemy’s worst nightmare,

And your haters most terrible sight,

If ever in doubt or darkness,

Use your smile to make the room bright.

So if anybody ever says you’re not good enough,

And makes you feel miserably and grey,

Just keep your chin up,

And smile away!