Vibrant new show Hashtag is reaching the hearts of teenage viewers all over the Persian-speaking world. Beautifully modern visuals and dynamic sounds decorate the programme as viewers are kept glued to the screen from start to the finish.
Consisting of many different segments including Bible Heroes, hacks and tricks, DIY and even science experiments, Hashtag is entertaining and educating viewers between 10 and 16 years old. When it comes to analysing the show’s impact, the proof is in the pudding, as presenter Parastoo explains.
“I was so encouraged by all the messages I received from our viewers,” says Parastoo. “I love it when viewers call in and engage during the live broadcast, and it is wonderful to know that they really are learning more about God’s Word and His love for them through Hashtag.”
One 16-year-old girl from Afghanistan wrote in to say, “I have learned a lot through the Bible stories, and I have come to the conclusion that God is with us any time and place.” A younger boy from Iran shared, “Through Hashtag I have learned to be kind and not to lie… I also learned to be joyful all the time, to study the Bible and to obey God. I like you so much!”
The challenge of keeping teenagers engaged with wholesome content is a big one. In a world of enthralling online content, much of which falls far short of wholesome, SAT-7 PARS is pumping out plenty of uplifting content to its 2 million viewers, half of whom are children and young adults aged under 25.
With sung worship opening and closing every programme, the Hashtag team do not shy away from the truth. Interestingly, it is not only Christian youth they are impacting. “[Sung prayer] is helpful especially for viewers who don’t know how to pray or ask us to show them how to pray,” says Parastoo.
PRAY
- Thank God for the big impact of Hashtag on young viewers.
- Pray for the presenter, Parastoo, to be encouraged in her faith and witness.
- Pray for young people in the MENA who are addicted to consuming bad content on TV or social media. Ask God to help them get free of it and pursue positive activities.