These days, at the age of sixteen, many of our youth are engrossed in video games, cars, personal friendships, relationships and intense social networking as well as up-to-date on the most current trends in fashion and technology. While all these activities can assist in one’s all-round development, as the old saying goes, too much of anything is indeed a bad thing. Hence, when a young person can find the time to balance school and religious and cultural practices with these other activities, it certainly deserves recognition.
Videsh Sookram attended St. George’s College and is presently awaiting results for his CSEC (CXC) examinations. He also wrote CXC examinations in January of this year where he excelled and placed amongst the top ten students in the Caribbean in Mathematics. This brilliant young man has plans to pursue Advanced Levels/CAPE studies in Pure Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology, after which he dreams of pursuing tertiary studies to become a medical doctor as it is his greatest goal to assist others in whatever way he can.
Videsh, who has been involved at the Gyaan Deepak Kirtan Mandali for almost five years, is a dedicated young man, impassioned about his spiritual and cultural development through Swaha. Having been introduced to the temple’s Summer Camp through a close friend, Videsh has since been involved in every event or activity; namely, Ramleela celebrations – where he has acted in a number of prominent roles and the Swadeshi Festival – where he has participated and copped awards on every attempt. He has also been active in maintaining the temple’s facilities and often participates in Sports Days.
Apart from school and temple, Videsh also keeps himself busy with other activities. He has taken a keen interest in the steelpan and also has plans to start music classes with Dr. Ruby Mallik in the near future.
So how does he balance it all? When asked, Videsh noted that time-management is essential and in addition to that, he simply enjoys what he does. As for his involvement in Indian culture, he considers himself enthusiastic to promote it in whatever way he can. While he acknowledges the challenges in balancing such a lifestyle, he is excited to develop his knowledge and understanding of his environment. He says, “Some youths may not cherish their culture and may take it for granted and they do not follow the teachings and practices. It is a problem, as we all know, and Swaha is doing an excellent job in promoting our religion and culture because they themselves have changed me into a vibrant young Hindu.”
Videsh humbly credits his parents as his inspiration to all that he has achieved thus far and for providing all that they can to continue nurturing his dreams and ambitions. His guru, Pt. Umesh Persad, has also served as an inspiration. They have instilled traits of dedication and motivation in him to always aim to achieve and excel. Therefore, we at Swaha look forward to seeing and hearing of many more accomplishments from this well-rounded and driven young man.
