‘My teachers ignited the passion in me that still burns bright’

Meet Avantika Kakkar who dreams of an egalitarian society where her aspirations go beyond personal growth and strives to contribute positively, embodying empathy, and understanding with a commitment to a better world. In a candid interview, Kakkar recalls how her teachers’ unswerving belief in her motivated her to push her boundaries more with each experience.

Tell us about yourself

My journey has woven a tapestry of experiences shaping who I am today. As a daughter, a good friend, and a supportive co-worker, I cherish meaningful connections in both personal and professional realms. Growing up in India, studying in the UK, and traveling extensively, I’ve gained a global perspective. Raised in a joint family with my grandparents, their partition stories and unchanged love for their comrades – no matter the cultural, political, and geographical changes the subcontinent witnessed – instilled in me a deep appreciation for every life and a commitment to promoting peace and respecting human dignity.

Philosophy is integral to my identity, with the words of Daisaku Ikeda guiding my character. Beyond my role as a fundraiser in the development sector, I am a passionate painter and advocate for health and wellness, particularly addressing type-1 diabetes. As a seasoned traveler with experiences in various countries, diverse cultures inspire me. I am an avid reader, and I recently read and was deeply moved by I Shall Not Hate by Izzeldin Abuelaish. In every endeavour, I aim to weave threads of compassion and understanding, contributing to a more harmonious world.

What does a typical day look like?

My day commences with a grounding session of meditation and prayer, setting a serene tone for what lies ahead. Following this, I dive into my work, dedicating focused energy to my responsibilities. Throughout the week, I engage with fellow members of Soka Gakkai, a Buddhist organisation I belong to. Together, we explore philosophical concepts, fostering intellectual growth and camaraderie. Balancing my professional commitments, I allocate quality time to my friends and family. Whether delving into books together or actively participating in physical activities such as leisurely walks, invigorating yoga classes, or gym workouts, we find joy in shared experiences. This holistic approach to my day not only fuels my well-being but also strengthens the bonds within my family and spiritual community.

 Share a few nostalgic memories from Apeejay.

A cherished memory from my school days revolves around an impactful conversation I had in class VIII with my class teacher, who also taught Computer Science. Despite excelling in computer science, my performance in other subjects was, at that time, only average. During a conversation that remains etched in my heart, she expressed her unwavering belief in my potential to excel not just in Computer Science but in all endeavours.

She envisioned me receiving the scholar’s batch the following year and was confident in my capabilities. This conversation, particularly her faith in my abilities, sparked a determination within me to succeed. Motivated by her encouragement, I intensified my efforts and achieved remarkable results. Not only did I receive the scholar’s batch, as she foresaw, but I also unexpectedly ranked among the top 5 students in my class. To the surprise of my peers and even myself, she was the only one who didn’t seem astonished; instead, she radiated joy at the realisation of my potential.

How were the teachers at Apeejay?

The teachers stood out for their unwavering encouragement and compassion. Their commitment went beyond traditional roles; they consistently motivated students to unlock their full potential, offering robust support in every facet of our lives. Whether grappling with academic hurdles, health concerns, or the complexities of mental well-being, they stood by us, fostering an environment where the best versions of ourselves could emerge.

 What are your dreams and goals in life?

I aspire to make a meaningful impact in society, leaving a lasting impression with every endeavour I undertake. I strive to generate substantial value through my work, aiming to touch the lives of many. Looking ahead to 2030, my ambitious goal is to deeply impact the lives of 1 million individuals through a combination of my professional efforts and social initiatives.

Any message for the students of the school?

While academics and extracurricular activities are essential, the capability to forge connections and nurture relationships is vital. In a world grappled by war and increasing division, we must learn to respect the dignity of each life. One does not necessarily work for world peace by joining organisations like the United Nations or becoming a diplomat; our actions toward creating a peaceful society begin at home. It starts with one’s family. It begins by nurturing meaningful relationships in school and society. It is crucial to ask ourselves, can I live in harmony with the neighbour who throws garbage outside my house?

Each of us has a choice to choose dialogue over argument. My mentor, Dr Daisaku Ikeda, a Japanese Buddhist philosopher, once wrote: “We need to awaken to a common consciousness of being all inhabitants of Earth.” This consciousness is not to be found in some distant place. It will not be found on a computer screen. It lies in our hearts, in our ability to share the pain of our fellow human beings. It is the spirit that says: “As long as you are suffering, whoever you are and whatever your suffering may be, I suffer also.” If, with this spirit, one can look around the classroom and become a true comrade to even one peer who needs motivation, inspiration, help, or just a friend – I think one will bring about a big change. This, in my opinion, is the behaviour of a courageous human being.

Your comments on the brain drain trend.

Addressing the brain drain in India is crucial and involves implementing a multifaceted approach that focuses on creating an environment that retains and attracts skilled professionals. In my opinion, the following action points – amongst many other policy and implementation practices – need to be focussed upon:

1. Invest in education and research: Strengthen educational institutions and research facilities to provide world-class opportunities for learning and innovation.

 2. Support Entrepreneurship: Continue creating a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship, making it easier for individuals to start and grow businesses in India. Offer incentives, grants, and mentorship programs for aspiring entrepreneurs to foster innovation and job creation.

3. Flexible Work Arrangements: Introduce flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and flexible hours, to enhance work-life balance and job satisfaction. Develop policies that support a healthy work culture, recognising the importance of employee well-being. Mental well-being needs to be spoken about more openly, and programmes to support employee’s mental health need to be introduced.

Implementing a combination of these strategies can help address the brain drain in India and create an environment that attracts, retains, and nurtures skilled talent.

How did Apeejay help you hone your skills?

Apeejay played a pivotal role in honing my skills through its dedicated faculty and enriching academic environment. A few of my teachers at Apeejay were not just teachers; they were mentors who consistently encouraged and challenged me with deep compassion to push my boundaries. Their guidance extended beyond the curriculum, providing insights and practical knowledge that prepared me for the real world. Reflecting on my early school days, I vividly remember my art teacher from primary grades. It was under her guidance that my love for painting blossomed. Remarkably, even after more than a decade, the passion she ignited in me still burns bright. Today, painting has become more than a hobby; it serves as a powerful medium through which I destress and give expression to my emotions. In summary, Apeejay’s supportive learning environment, dedicated faculty, well-structured curriculum, and emphasis on holistic development collectively played a crucial role in honing my skills and preparing me for the challenges of the professional world.