I am honoured and grateful to have been appointed as the Middle School's Head Boy for the academic year 2023-2024 and I am reminded of the intricate threads that have woven together to bring me to this moment. From the first time I stepped through the gates as a timid and shy student, to the day I found myself in trouble for forgetting my homework, the day I took to the stage for my first public performance, or the day I was made a prefect, each experience has brought me to where I am today.

As we embark on this new academic year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what it means to be a leader and how we can work together to give back to our school and community.

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge."

To me, leadership entails setting an example that others can imitate. It also means being empathetic, compassionate, and inclusive, recognizing that every one of us has a unique set of strengths and challenges that we can all learn from.

Leadership is not about power, but about service.

As the Head Boy, it is my duty to foster a culture of inclusivity and respect at our esteemed institution. My aim is to create an environment where differences are embraced and students work together towards shared objectives. I urge all members of our community to come forward and share their thoughts and suggestions with their teachers and peers.

Together, it is possible to continue to develop a harmonious and welcoming school community that St. Columba’s is known for.

Let us awaken each morning with the knowledge that the day ahead is an unblemished canvas, ripe with the potential to paint our dreams. Like painters who create timeless masterpieces as a result of tireless efforts, striving to always be the best versions of themselves. With this mindset, we can view obstacles as stepping stones, lifting us higher towards new pinnacles of success and prosperity.

With the Columban motto reminding us of consistency, together let us create a symphony of colours and brushstrokes, with each stroke contributing to a masterpiece that will endure for years to come.

My fellow Columbans, join me on this journey as a team of explorers, accepting the responsibilities that come with our roles as leaders in this community and remembering that our actions and decisions have a ripple effect that can positively impact the lives of those around us.

As we embark on this new chapter of our journey, I urge you to hold the brush and paint our future with the colours of our dreams. May we work together to create a legacy that will inspire and empower future generations.

For as the wise have said, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." How wonderful it would be, to be the creators of our own destiny, united in purpose and vision, with a spirit of excellence that shines forth like a beacon of hope for all to see.

Sayed Aatif Jamal

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