With God, All Dreams are Possible

By Kalyaani Vaani Persad, Coordinator, International Gita Forum, SWAHA Sri Raam Dhaam 

Kalyaani excelled at her CSEC studies in 2017 with all 8 distinctions. She received 5 distinctions and placed 4^th in the Caribbean in Applied Mathematics in CAPE in 2018 and earned all five distinctions in CAPE U2 in 2019, receiving 10 distinctions in all. SWAHA congratulates her on her achievements.

Born in Trinidad, my developmental years were spent in India where my father served as High Commissioner from Trinidad and Tobago to India. While we were there, I was given the privilege of visiting Ganga Maa and the birthplace of Shri Krishna, Mathura very frequently. This played an integral role in shaping my mind as a young Hindu. I also studied Ramayana and Shri Krishna Katha. Attending The British School, New Delhi, provided a solid academic foundation.

Upon our return, SWAHA Sri Raam Dhaam in Diego Martin became my favourite place to frequent. I participated in SWAHA’s national events including Sports, Ramayana Quiz, Swadeshi and cohosted Indian Arrival Day celebrations. At SWAHA Sri Raam Dhaam, engaging in various activities throughout the year developed me into an all-rounded individual. The opportunity to coordinate events such as Janmashtami and the International Gita Forum brought Bhagwan Shri Krishna even closer to my heart. Performing the monthly Shri Ganesh Vrat was also a key factor of my life.  I presented religious programming on TV and Radio, as well as coordinated events in collaboration with the Indian High Commission.

Throughout my life, my parents have been my biggest motivators and a great pillar of support. I consider them to be my biggest blessing, my Gods on Earth. They always ensured that I had the resources necessary to succeed academically, socially and spiritually. I especially thank my brother for being my support, when things got a bit too stressful!

At St Augustine Girls’ High School, the fantastic teachers and staff supplied me with the gift of knowledge and acted as a major support system, both of which are crucial in attaining success. The motto of the school, “Per Ardua Ad Astra” or “Through Hard Work to the Stars” inspired me to always persevere and ultimately achieve my highest potential. Being part of a support network with my friends, both in and out of school, was an indispensable part of my success.

Therefore, I credit my achievement in these exams to Bhagwan Shri Krishna and my temple, my family, friends and all my teachers, both here in Trinidad and in India. I eagerly await enrolling into university to pursue my dream career of medicine, yet another chapter of my life.

My humble advice to other youths aspiring for success: Set your eyes on your goals and work until you achieve them. Hard work, sacrifice and prayer are essential elements in attaining success. However, I encourage you to participate in other activities, both to relax and to progress into an all-rounded individual. Always remember, no matter how hard it is, how many challenges you are faced with, never give up. Good luck!

‘All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.’ ~ Walt Disney