Head of House of Marshall Aradhana Upadhyay

Aradhana Upadhyay DP1B

My leadership journey in SISHK began as the captain of the U14 girls volleyball team. Young, apprehensive and very inexperienced, I let my emotions cloud my judgement and I was not a very good leader. Fast forward to Sec 4, I was selected once again to lead the U16 volleyball team. Even though I was older, I realised I had a lot to learn. I remember being very pessimistic after losing nearly every game, but I also remember my seniors coming up to me, guiding and encouraging me, teaching me how to become a better leader. Throughout this period, I began to feel more connected to the school community, developing a desire to contribute more and to lead other people.

My seniors have never failed to inspire me and it was them that gradually caused me to develop a certain fondness for my house. I applied for this position with the expectation of being rejected, so I feel honoured that I have been deemed worthy enough to become a house leader. I will give this position my best and guide my juniors, whose enthusiasm is infectious, through their journey in SISHK.

My vision for the house extends beyond inspiring house spirit or making the different year levels bond over activities – I wish to create an environment in which everyone feels supported and share a sense of belonging. In addition, I would like everyone to learn from each other and grow individually and collectively as better people, with the ability to stand up for what they believe is right not only in school, but beyond.

A person that I admire is Mahatma Gandhi, simply because his quiet voice, powerful words and unwavering conviction shook an empire. Gandhi has shown me that compassion is not a weakness, but a strength, and that power need not equal aggression, but can come from passion.

I hope that in my journey as a leader in SISHK, as well as beyond, I can lead by example and inspire those around me, and continue to improve to be the best possible version of myself.