UNSTOPPABLE DREAMS - EPISODE THREE

 

ACTS THREE

A busy street in the early morning. Hazeemah steps out of a cab, rushing through the street. Her phone rings suddenly.

Hazeemah: (answers without checking the caller ID) As-salamu alaikum wa rahmatullah.

Khalid: Wa alaikum as-salam wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh, my queen. Good morning.

Hazeemah: (surprised) Khalid? Why are you calling so early? I told you I have an interview today.

Khalid: I know, I just wanted to check on you. There's nothing wrong with that, is there?

Hazeemah: Thanks for checking in, but I have to go now. (about to hang up)

Khalid: Wait! Take it easy, woman. I’m the one who called, remember? Why are you being so short with me lately? Are you mad at me?

Hazeemah: Look, Khalid, I don’t have time for this right now. This interview is important to me, and I need to stay focused. You’re distracting me, and I can’t afford to be in a bad mood. We’ll talk later, okay?

Khalid: Distracting you? What’s really going on, Hazeemah? Is there someone else? You’ve been treating me like I don’t matter.

Hazeemah: Khalid, watch your tone. Let me be clear: if this is how you’re going to treat me, then maybe you should stop calling altogether. In fact, don’t call me again.

Khalid: What? Subhanallah! Are you breaking up with me?

Hazeemah: Breaking up? Did I ever agree to be your partner? Listen, I’ve reached my destination. Ma’a as-salam. (ends the call)

Hazeemah: (sighs) Subhanallah, what a mood wrecker. (just as she’s about to knock, the gate opens on its own) Woohoo! Masha Allah. (she walks into the company, asking for directions before heading to the elevator) This place is amazing.

(Hazeemah arrives at the reception area where other job seekers are waiting. They notice her and start murmuring and laughing. She ignores them, finding a place to sit and focusing on her phone.)

Hazeemah: Not today, people.

(Suddenly, the sound of footsteps causes the job seekers to look up as the vice-chairman of the company, Mrs. Shola, approaches with her subordinate. Everyone stands to greet her. Mrs. Shola’s eyes immediately fall on Hazeemah.)

Mrs. Shola: (scanning her from head to toe) Hey, you over there!

Hazeemah: (points to herself, unsure) Me?

Mrs. Shola: Yes, you. Are you lost or something?

(The other job seekers and workers laugh.)

Hazeemah: (unfazed and confident) No, ma’am. I’m exactly where I need to be. I’m here to apply for a position at this esteemed company.

Mrs. Shola: (scans Hazeemah from head to toe again) What the hell are you wearing? (The laughter from the others grows louder.) And what exactly are you fools laughing at? (She points at a few of the job seekers.) You! Out of my company! Next time, you won’t open your wide mouth to laugh at everything or anyone. If you’re better than her, then why are you here with her?

(The pointed job seekers begin to apologize, but Mrs. Shola calls for security to remove them. The security team swiftly escorts them out.)

Hazeemah: (smiles lightly)

Mrs. Shola: Back to you, Madam Sweeper. Let’s see what you have upstairs. Since we were told never to judge a book by its cover, your interview starts right this instant. Introduce yourself.

Hazeemah: (confidently) Good morning, esteemed panel. My name is Hazeemah Wuraola Nurudeen, and I’m proud to introduce myself as a dedicated and passionate individual who wears my faith and values on my sleeve—literally, through my hijab. I understand that my choice of attire may have raised questions, but I assure you that my commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and respect knows no bounds.

With five years of experience in administrative roles, I’ve developed a unique blend of skills, adaptability, and creativity that I believe would be an asset to your team. I’m excited to share how my perspective, work ethic, and passion for support can contribute to your organization’s success. I invite you to look beyond my attire and explore the skills, qualifications, and dedication that make me an ideal candidate for this role

Mrs. Shola: Hmm… Really?

Hazeemah: Yes, ma’am.

Mrs. Shola: So tell me, if you were to be my personal assistant, how would you impress me enough to hire you with that attire? How can you work smarter when your attire might cause commotion and rejection for our company?

Hazeemah: Thank you for your candid question. As your Personal Assistant, my role would be to provide exceptional support, ensuring the seamless execution of tasks and fostering a positive image for your company.

Regarding my attire, I understand the concerns about potential commotion or rejection. However, I’d like to offer a different perspective:

My hijab is a symbol of my dedication, discipline, and commitment to my values. These same qualities will enable me to bring focus, integrity, and hard work to your team.

In today’s diverse and inclusive work environment, my presence can be an asset in connecting with clients and partners from various backgrounds.

I’m confident that my skills, work ethic, and positive attitude will shine through, making my attire a non-issue.

I’m also willing to work with you to establish a dress code policy that balances individuality with company representation. To work smarter, I'll:

Prioritize tasks efficiently.

Leverage technology for streamlined communication and organization.

Anticipate needs and proactively address them.

Maintain confidentiality and discretion.

I believe my unique blend of skills, experience, and passion makes me an excellent fit for this role. I'm excited to discuss how I can contribute to your company's success while proudly being myself.

MRS. SHOLA: Hmmm... (Thinking) In that case... go and make a coffee for me. I'll give you five minutes. I want it on my desk. (Checks her wristwatch) Your time starts... NOW!

HAZEEMAH: (Confused at first but quickly dashes out of their sight, not knowing where the coffee room is) Yaa Allah, why didn't I see this coming? (Panting heavily, she suddenly spots some workers leaving a room with cups of coffee in their hands. She hurriedly enters the room and finds everything she needs) Hazeemah!! Think!!! How do you use a coffee machine?? I watched this on YouTube. Yes!! (She grabs the machine and starts mixing ingredients when suddenly someone enters the room.)

REEM: (Clears his throat) How may I help you?

HAZEEMAH: (Startled) Oh, sorry sir, I was just making coffee for my boss... and I was given five minutes. I have less than three minutes left. Please, can you assist me?

REEM: (Moves closer to her and glances at the table) You've already made one. (He picks up a teaspoon, dips it into the coffee, and sips) Wait! I thought you said you don't know how to make coffee?

HAZEEMAH: Yes sir, I just added milk and coffee alone... I haven't added sugar yet. I just put things in as my spirit led me. Please, if it's not okay, could you help me make another one? I promise to repay you later... Please, I have less than two minutes.

REEM: Trust me when I say... You know what? (He helps her put the saucer under the cup and hands it over to her) Take it to her.

HAZEEMAH: What? No, I can't!

REEM: There's no time left to make another one. Trust your instincts... go!

HAZEEMAH: (Panicking, body shaking) Uhm... Where is the Vice Chairman's office?

REEM: (He gives her directions) Turn left, and you'll find her office.

HAZEEMAH: Thank you so much, sir. (She rushes out of the coffee room.)

MRS. SHOLA: (Busy dealing with the remaining job seekers, dismissing them one after the other as she's not pleased with their responses. Suddenly, Hazeemah enters the office without knocking.)

HAZEEMAH: (Places the coffee on her desk) Here is the coffee you asked for, ma'am.

MRS. SHOLA: You have no manners at all... how dare you barge into my office like that?

HAZEEMAH: Please forgive my manners... I was just trying to beat the time. But I promise nothing like this will happen again.

MRS. SHOLA: (Exhales heavily as she checks the time) Five minutes on the dot... I hope you didn't poison my coffee or add some juju to it?

HAZEEMAH: I will never do that. I understand your concerns, but I must respectfully assure you that I will never compromise my values or integrity, regardless of the outcome. The principle of 'what goes around comes around' guides my actions. I believe in treating others with kindness and respect, even if it means facing rejection. My religion teaches me the importance of honesty, authenticity, and compassion. I will remain true to myself and my beliefs, even in the face of adversity. I'm proud to be who I am, and I'm confident that my character and work ethic will speak louder than any perceived limitations.

MRS. SHOLA: (Picks up the coffee mug, sips it, allowing herself to think, then takes another sip before setting it down.) Did you make this yourself?

HAZEEMAH: (Hurriedly nods her head) Yes, ma'am. (Heart pounding heavily)

MRS. SHOLA: Impressive... but with that heavy hijab... don’t you feel uncomfortable wearing all those layers, including socks and gloves?

HAZEEMAH: Thank you for your concern, but I must correct a common misconception. My hijab is not heavy or uncomfortable; it’s a part of me, and I wear it with pride and comfort. The fabric is breathable, and I’ve grown accustomed to it over the years. In fact, I feel more confident and empowered when I wear it. My religion teaches me to dress modestly, and I choose to express that through my attire. The socks and gloves are also part of my personal choice, ensuring I present myself in a way that aligns with my values. I assure you, my focus is on delivering exceptional work, not on physical discomfort. I’m happy to discuss how my skills and experience make me a strong fit for this role.

MRS. SHOLA: (Short of words, but before she could respond, the door bursts open aggressively.) Who the hell opened my door like that? (She suddenly spots who it is as their workers accompany him into the office.) Oh my God! M.K! (Jumps out of her rolling chair to embrace him) I can't believe this is really you; what a pleasant surprise!

HAZEEMAH: (Steps back slightly to avoid any further commotion.)

M.K: I knew you’d be shocked to see me, and I’m glad I surprised you. How have you been?

MRS. SHOLA: I’m fine, and you? Aww, I’ve missed you so much.

M.K: The feeling is mutual, sis...

MRS. SHOLA: Come! Have a seat.

HAZEEMAH: (Hurriedly sets the chair for him to sit down, then notices her.) Welcome, sir.

M.K: (Scans her from head to toe before returning to his sister.) I’ll get to her later. So, sis! How have you been managing this huge responsibility lately?

MRS. SHOLA: My dear, it’s as tough as riding a horse for the first time... there’s no time to rest.

M.K: Exactly, that’s why Dad forced me to come back to Nigeria so you can rest for six good months. He said something about you going through tough times at work and at home.

MRS. SHOLA: Aww, Dad is the best. He knows exactly what I need.

M.K: (Signals to one of the workers, who steps forward to present an iPad on her desk.) You’re free to choose the country of your choice for vacation.

MRS. SHOLA: Aww, this is going to be fun. (Goes through the iPad) I prefer Miami... I’m going with my daughter; you know I can’t leave her all alone.

M.K: Great choice. (Glances at Hazeemah and then looks away) You really did a great job building this company, sis.

MRS. SHOLA: (Signals to Hazeemah) Get him something to eat.

HAZEEMAH: Okay, ma’am. (Steps forward) You are highly welcome, sir... what would you like me to get for you?

MRS. SHOLA: Are you deaf? I said get him something to eat. Do you have to be so dumb to ask him?

M.K: (Signals to Shola) I got this. (Turns his chair to Hazeemah) Where on earth did my sister pick this rag from?

MRS. SHOLA: It’s a long story, my dear. She was among the candidates applying for a job here. My previous personal assistant traveled out of the country with his family.

M.K: Please don’t tell me you’ve hired this b** over here?*

HAZEEMAH: (Gasp in shock, but before Mrs. Shola could respond, she fires back) I understand that you may have concerns or questions about my application, but I take great offense to the derogatory language used to refer to me. As a professional, I expect respect and courtesy, regardless of my attire or background. I'm here to discuss my qualifications and fit for the role, not to be subjected to personal attacks. I'd appreciate it if we could maintain a respectful tone and focus on the position's requirements. Let's work together to create a positive and inclusive environment.

(Everyone in the room goes mute for a few seconds before M.K finally speaks.)

M.K: (Gets on his feet to confront her) I see... You’re the confident one, daring to talk back to me despite not being employed yet. You’ve got nerve, haven’t you?

HAZEEMAH: I’m not being confrontational; I’m being clear. I believe in standing up for myself and maintaining my self-respect, even in a job interview. My confidence comes from knowing my worth and my qualifications. I’m not intimidated by your position or tone. I’m here to discuss how my skills can benefit your company, not to engage in a power struggle. If you’re looking for someone who will speak up and contribute to your team, then I’m the right person. But if you’re looking for someone who will be belittled or intimidated, then I’m not the right fit.

MRS. SHOLA: (Impressed) You are hired!

M.K: What? No!

HAZEEMAH: (Jaw drops in disbelief)