Since third grade, I've navigated life with a stutter, along with the wide range of emotions and reactions it brings out. Growing up, I was often afraid of public speaking and faced misunderstanding and accusations of faking it for attention, even from my family. Bullying and ridicule from peers were constant struggles.

However, as time went on, I've gained strength and understanding. Now a university student, I've accepted my stutter as something unique, refusing to let others' opinions affect my self-confidence. I've learned to love myself and not fear speaking publicly.

My message to others facing similar struggles is simple: Don't be intimidated or swayed by others' words or mockery. Stand up for yourself, speak out, be brave and confident, and love yourself more. Never allow anyone to belittle you. You are unique and capable.

I encourage the world to change its view on stuttering. It's not something to mock; it can result from childhood experiences or genetics. We need to treat people who stutter with kindness, patience, and understanding, without trying to correct or finish their words for them.

We need a world with less bullying and more compassion, where every voice, no matter how it sounds, is heard and respected. This change begins with us, in how we treat and support each other, especially those who stutter.