Becoming Head Girl has been one of the most transformative journey of my life. Leadership, I’ve learned, isn’t about bossing people around. It’s about being the person who ensures everyone reaches the destination together, leaving no one behind. A true leader stands by your side through thick and thin. As the quote goes, “Millions saw the apple fall, but only Newton asked why.” Leadership is all about seeing beyond the obvious and thinking of everything from all perspectives. This realization guided me as I stepped into the challenging election process.
The election was no easy feat—it truly felt like a survival of the fittest. I started preparing a week before, jotting down event ideas and new policies I hoped to introduce. Each idea was carefully reviewed during meetings with my senior mistress to ensure they were feasible. These discussions refined my vision and taught me that leadership is also about collaboration and compromise. My speech had to capture all these aspirations, so I spent days perfecting it, ensuring it would convey my goals clearly and passionately.
Campaign preparations were another adventure altogether. With the help of my dearest friends, I cut out red ribbons and designed posters. This teamwork reinforced an important lesson: leadership is never a solo journey. It was during this time that I truly understood the meaning of the quote, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” My friends’ support turned a stressful time into a memorable one.
The day of my speech arrived, and I couldn’t believe how it unfolded. I thundered on stage, pouring my heart into every word. As I spoke, I felt the audience’s support growing, and it gave me an incredible boost of confidence. The energy was palpable, but the real test was yet to come—the announcement day. The tension was overwhelming; no one could predict the outcome. When our principal finally began, “Fati…” a wave of relief and joy crashed over me. In that moment, everything became a blur of handshakes, hugs, and pats on the back.
I managed to reach the stage for my thank-you speech, barely containing the widest, goofiest smile on my face. Afterward, I hugged my opponent, rushed to call my parents, and shared the news. The biggest surprise was learning that I had won with a whopping 79% of the votes. It felt surreal.
Since becoming Head Girl, the journey has been nothing short of incredible. I’ve felt immense love, especially from my juniors, and though there have been moments of backlash—because, as they say, “Naam hai toh badnaam hai”—it’s all part of the experience. Leadership is tough, but when you see the fruits of your hard work and the positive changes you’ve made, nothing compares to that happiness.