SS Peter and Paul's Catholic Primary School

Quizzed on everything from what would be the one thing he would change about the world if he could and who inspired him to enter the competition, to what kind of rocket will he be travelling in and how did he feel about being the first British Muslim to go into space; the 24-year-old entertained pupils with his funny, honest and poignant answers. Though both excited and scared about his space venture, Hussein told the Gordon Road pupils that he entered the competition because he wanted to change the planet. He wanted people to be free from mental health problems and happy. He urged the children to stay away from trouble and anything negative and to work hard. Speaking about the last stage of the competition in Thailand, Hussein explained, “I was up against a doctor. At first I thought I had no chance against a doctor, but then I thought what is the difference? We both work just as hard. He might be smarter than me but I can work hard too. So I am telling you children whatever you are doing, be the best you can be. Don’t give up. If I had given up when I was next to that doctor then I would not be going to space now. I am a normal person. I came here today because I want to tell you all that you can do whatever you want to do in your life what you need to do is to work hard.”