Ignite Your Passion
Muhammed Saif
Product Marketing Manager Intern
Microsoft Canada
As a recording artist and a Product Marketing Manager intern at Microsoft, I’ve followed an exceptional trail that shaped my unique worldview.
My journey began when I first witnessed an emerging hip hop culture in Brampton Ontario, my hometown. After decades of lack of representation, I witnessed artists not only sharing their story, but also, a culturally nuanced perspective, one that aligned with my South Asian heritage. This inspired me to pick up a pen and start writing songs of my own.
Growing up as a first-generation immigrant with three older siblings, I had the opportunity to experience worlds of culture and music—and I was fascinated by it all. The internet, along with my older siblings, introduced me to different subgenres of hip hop, including artists such as Lupe Fiasco and Fateh, a South Asian, Punjabi rapper and Brampton native. This led me to the realization that hip hop is an all-inclusive art form and a powerful tool of self-expression that piqued my interest.
“We shouldn't be reluctant to take risks when we can. It is important to follow your passions and have fun along the way.”
Deciding to follow an unconventional artistic path was not ideal in a society that encourages traditional career paths. I encountered pushback from my parents and peers in my mission to explore my artistic side and was encouraged to follow a more conventional trail. I was lucky to be able to discover the corporate world and dive deep into Product Marketing. It was not an easy road in terms of time management and support networks to pursue both at once; yet I discovered an opportunity to succeed in both of these areas.
I started off using any and all feedback, both positive and negative, as fuel to create increasingly meaningful music. I understood the value of putting time and effort into cultivating my own group of supporters rather than attempting to win everyone over. My experience in this industry helped me develop skills that were applicable to the corporate world, and I learned that diversity is a key factor in success and that everyone can learn from each other.
Now, I go from attending work meetings to performing at concerts. I discovered the value of keeping an open mind and pursuing my ambitions— going from one world to another strengthens my identity.
Everyone has something to express, and we should not be afraid to discover or share it with the world.
#Culture #GrowthAndDevelopment