Hamza Yassin opens Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland

Former Strictly Come Dancing winner Hamza Yassin captivated a crowd at Stirling’s Albert Halls at a launch event for his new book Hamza’s Wild World on Monday night.

The star of CBeebie’s Ranger Hamza’s Eco Quest and Ambassador for Stirling-based charity Dyslexia Scotland was the guest speaker at the event as part of Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland.

Guests found out about the inspiration for the book in a lively interview with scriptwriter and author Cat Hepburn before having the opportunity to meet the star and purchase a signed copy, with some of the proceeds being donated to the charity.

In the spirit of Dyslexia Awareness Week, Mr Yassin shared the challenges he faced as a younger person with dyslexia but how he thrived in his work as a wildlife cameraman, eventually becoming confident to write books.

Speaking at the event, Mr Yassin said: “I’m delighted to be back with Dyslexia Scotland to introduce my new book and talk about my dyslexia journey. It’s so important to send out positive messages to younger people about making the most of their learning difference and I’m very proud to be able to do it in support of Dyslexia Scotland.”

Chief Executive of Dyslexia Scotland Cathy Magee said: “What a spectacular way to open Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland. Hamza has done a great job of raising awareness of the learning difference that affects ten percent of people. We’re really grateful to him for sharing profits from the sale of his books here tonight, and to our sponsors who helped make this special event happen.”

Local business The Smiddy Farm Shop sponsored the glitzy event. The retailer made the news earlier in the year when their dyslexic employee Marc Ingram was named Scottish Apprentice of the Year.