Simo Ben Interview Published on: 24, Mar 2023

As a teenager, I grew up in Morocco after spending my childhood in Italy. Unfortunately, the abuse of power is all too common in Morocco. It occurs when someone with more wealth or social status treats those beneath them as if they are unworthy of respect. This behavior is unacceptable and undermines the dignity of all individuals.

It is important to recognize that intelligence and worth are not determined by one's bank statement or outward appearance. There are many individuals who possess great intelligence and potential, even if it is not immediately apparent. It is our responsibility to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their social status or background.

In conclusion, we must work to eliminate the abuse of power and promote equality and respect for all individuals. By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable society for everyone.

For Moroccan society, my story is quite unusual. As a teenager, I was a huge fan of Madonna and one day stumbled upon a video of her in West Hollywood. I was immediately enamored with the area and boldly declared to my relatives and friends that I would one day live there. However, my dream was met with ridicule and skepticism, as obtaining a visa to the US without a stable job seemed impossible.

Years later, I found myself living in West Hollywood and covering the biggest events for the very same audience that had once mocked me. My journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the odds stacked against me, I refused to let go of my dream and ultimately achieved what many thought was impossible. My story is a reminder that with hard work and unwavering faith in oneself, anything is possible.

When I realized that I had to start trying or I won’t get anywhere in life.

Be creative and take risks with your writing. However, it's important to also stay true to yourself and your own voice. Don't try to imitate someone else's style just because it's popular or successful.

Another important aspect of writing a book is to have a clear idea of what you want to say and who your target audience is. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your message comes across effectively. It's also important to do thorough research and fact-checking to ensure the accuracy of your information.

Finally, don't forget about the editing process. It can be tempting to rush through this step, but taking the time to revise and polish your work can make all the difference in creating a high-quality book that readers will love. With dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn and grow as a writer, anyone can write a great book that leaves a lasting impact on its readers.

I never planned to be a journalist, I was the leader of the Moroccan AIDS organization "Ruban Rouge" (Red Ribbon), I spearheaded campaigns to raise awareness about the disease. Our efforts included partnering with celebrities who generously donated their time to support our cause. However, due to their busy schedules, they often didn't have the time to speak with the media. That's where I came in - I was responsible for asking them the questions that journalists wanted to know.

Interestingly, many of these celebrities commented on my unique approach to questioning and how I was able to engage them in meaningful conversations. Their feedback was so positive that they encouraged me to consider a career in journalism. Taking their advice to heart, I pursued this path and have never looked back. Today, I am proud to say that my journey from leading an AIDS organization to becoming a successful journalist has been a fulfilling and rewarding one.

I am fortunate to have had a circle of wonderful individuals who have provided me with unwavering encouragement and support throughout the arduous journey of writing a book. However, one individual who truly stands out is my teacher, Chris Saucier. During the lockdown, we connected on Zoom every day to discuss the intricate details of my book, Sneaky Showbiz. This experience was nothing short of exceptional, as it allowed me to gain a unique perspective on my culture through an American lens.

Perfectionism, heavy revising, excessive research, and attempting to do too much.

One habit that consistently inspired me throughout the book writing process was my daily happy hour. I made it a point to start writing every evening at 7 PM, coinciding with my happy hour routine. This ritual not only provided me with a sense of structure and discipline, but also allowed me to unwind and reflect on my progress. By incorporating this habit into my writing routine, I found myself more motivated and focused, resulting in a more productive and enjoyable writing experience.

I am hesitant to reveal too much about Sneaky Showbiz, as I don't want to spoil the experience for those who are eager to read it. However, I feel compelled to shed light on a disturbing trend in my home country of Morocco. Fake influencers have taken the social media world by storm, presenting themselves as successful and glamorous individuals. In reality, many of these influencers are nothing more than prostitutes who use the entertainment industry as a cover for their illicit activities.

It is crucial that we educate children and young people about the truth behind the glitz and glamour of social media. They must be aware that what they see online is not always an accurate representation of reality. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are not misled by false narratives or manipulated by those who seek to profit from their naivety.

In short, we must remember that all that glitters is not gold. By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of fake influencers and their deceptive tactics.

I am certain that my book, which exposes the various tactics employed by these fake influencers to manipulate the public, including the use of spells and black magic - a common practice in Morocco - will not be well-received by those who employ such deceitful methods. Therefore, I caution them to be vigilant. Many individuals are now privy to their underhanded ways

It is truly a blessing and a dream come true. I have been given the opportunity to cover numerous events that I once watched on television as a teenager. Additionally, I have had the privilege of meeting and interviewing countless remarkable individuals who have inspired and influenced me long before I even arrived in the United States. This experience has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am grateful for every moment.

One of my worst experiences as a journalist occurred during an interview with a French celebrity in Casablanca. While shooting it, the phone rang. To my dismay, it came from the sound engineer’s cell, which is supposed to ensure the best possible audio quality. This incident taught me a valuable lesson: all members of my TV crew must turn off their phones to avoid any unexpected interruptions. However, unexpected events can still occur during interviews, even with the best preparation.

Journalism is not for the faint of heart. It requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to put in long hours for low pay, especially when starting out. However, for those who are truly curious about the world around them, journalism can be an incredibly rewarding career.

To be a successful journalist, it is essential to approach each story with a sense of curiosity and a desire to learn. It is important to separate personal feelings and beliefs from the subject being covered, in order to provide an objective and unbiased account of events.

One of the biggest challenges faced by journalists is dealing with authority figures. It can be intimidating to ask tough questions and hold those in power accountable for their actions. However, developing a thick skin and learning to stand up for oneself is essential in this field.

In short, journalism is not for everyone. But for those who are passionate about uncovering the truth and sharing it with the world, it can be an incredibly fulfilling and meaningful career.

An award is a powerful tool that can make individuals feel valued and appreciated for their hard work. It serves as a symbol of recognition and gratitude for the efforts put in by each person, and it reinforces the idea that good work will always be rewarded. Moreover, it sends a message to the general public and other staff members that you are aware of outstanding accomplishments and that you value excellence in your organization.

My upcoming book will be no different. It will be a hard-hitting expose that uncovers the dark secrets of the entertainment that has been shrouded in mystery for far too long. Through my writing, I hope to bring awareness to the issues at hand and spark a conversation that leads to positive change.

The world of authors was entirely new to me, but since becoming a member of your organization, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience. Through AllAuthor, I have had the opportunity to connect with numerous talented authors from all corners of the globe. It has been an enriching experience that has broadened my horizons and allowed me to expand my literary network.