One of the greatest blessings and privileges of my life as an educator is getting to engage with hundreds of young people every day – witnessing first-hand their journeys into adulthood, with all the joys, pains, and bittersweet challenges that it represents. Seeing them thrive and become the best possible version of themselves is our reward. And when our students go on to change the world in positive, impactful ways, there can be no bigger happiness.

This is why I am pleased to write this foreword. I have known Vatsal as a diligent, determined, and dedicated student whose journey to better mental and physical health is inspirational for all. I have witnessed Vatsal’s journey chronicled in these pages, and I applaud his commitment to personal growth and transformation.

Sadly, Vatsal was not alone in the challenges. The UAE’s rates of morbid obesity are double the world average – at around 40 per cent. Over the years it has been heartbreaking to see the increasing cases of childhood obesity. A complex set of circumstances is responsible for this, ranging from genetic and environmental factors to mental well-being and poor nutrition. For adults, obesity can have tragic consequences on their quality of life, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, infertility, and cardiovascular diseases.

When he was just 16 years old, Vatsal embarked on his transformative path, to overcome the struggles of morbid obesity and chronic illnesses. By adopting a healthier lifestyle and dedicating himself to a goal-oriented weight loss plan, he was able to transform his health – going from 140 kilos to 75 kilos over a span of 18 months. However, Vatsal’s journey goes beyond physical transformation. Along the way, this young man also gained selfesteem and self-belief, which have led him to step out of his comfort zone, experiment and succeed.

For instance, Vatsal created Fitness Freak, a digital platform in the health and wellness domain, where he shares workout videos, educational tips, and interviews with health professionals, including nutritionists, doctors, and gym trainers. Fitness Freak has inspired people on their own transformative journeys.

Personally, I was able to observe this first-hand as one of the speakers at a business conference Vatsal organised at Raffles World Academy. Vatsal’s enthusiasm, passion, and dedication to making this event a success was extremely contagious.

I wholeheartedly commend Vatsal for taking charge of his life’s journey and proactively transforming his health. Through his Fitness Freak initiative, he has touched many lives. And I hope his book will have a similar impact, inspiring readers to embrace change, unlock their potential, and embark on their own transformative journeys.

Poonam Bhojani

Chief Executive Officer, Innoventures Education, Dubai