He captured the hearts of the nation as he battled to overcome his stammer on hit television show Educating Yorkshire.
Musharaf Asghar became a TV sensation thanks to his starring roles in the series six years ago, after his teacher Matthew Burton helped him tackle his speech impediment.
Millions of viewers saw Musharaf finally able to read out loud after Mr Burton, inspired by the film The King’s Speech, had the idea of using music to help him.
This week Musharaf spoke to students at Bishop Burton College. He talked about his incredible journey, which also saw him steal the show at the National Television Awards.
“When I was a kid a doctor told my parents that I would never be able to talk. I hated myself. I was full of self-hate,” he said.
“But after Educating Yorkshire, I was proud of who I was. My advice to all of you is to be proud of who you are.
“I’m not saying my adversity was any worse than yours, what I’m saying is that there are people here who can help you overcome your own adversity.”
Musharaf, who was speaking to a group of more than 200 students as part of the college’s ‘Health and Respect Week’, went on: “We all face trials and tribulations. Life is tough. I’m not here to say it is easy, but six years ago I never thought I would be able to do something like this.
“That isn’t just down to me, it is down to the support I have had. It only takes one person to give you that push and, for me, that person was Mr Burton. If one person gives you that push, you can do whatever you want in life.”
Education Yorkshire Talks About Struggle With Speech Impediment
Musharaf, who described to the students his on-going struggle with his speech impediment. He encouraged them all to make the most of their time at the college.
He added: “Every single day you are working towards your goals. Enjoy these moments. Enjoy what you are doing because, if you aren’t enjoying it, you aren’t doing it with passion.”
Bishop Burton College, near Beverley, runs a wide range of practical courses for school-leavers, including in animal management, agriculture, equine and also sport.
