No peak high for hill women achievers

VIVEK CHHETRI, TT, 23 May 2019, Darjeeling: At a time there is cut-throat competition to obtain high marks in school-leaving examination, five women who were on Wednesday conferred the title "Women of Substance" spoke about other attributes that propelled them to success.

Addressing hundreds of students at the 16th Career Fair organised by SAPE in association with The Telegraph and Rotary Club of Darjeeling at Gymkhana Club, Darjeeling, the achiever were a bundle of inspiration for the young. 

Roshini Rai, advocate and an ultra-marathon runner 

Students today are lucky as they have access to information on their fingertips. However, the most important thing is to have a feeling that you want to contribute something to society. I am an advocate by profession and marathon is my hobby. I could manage to run marathons in South Africa, China, the Czech Republic, the base of Mt Ever- est and find time to train and help other runners. 

Baisnabi Subba, assistant commissioner, state GST 

After I completed my graduation, I did not know what to do. I wanted to travel and joined IndiGo in 2007 as a cabin attendant. In 2014, I thought I was stagnating, decided to leave everything and get back to studying. After preparing for two years, I cracked the civil services exam. Set your goal and go after it and be happy with what you do. 

Mendarawa Ghisingh, Principal, West Point 

If you are self-disciplined, 80 per cent of your job is always solved. Students must also identify your interests, even while selecting your subject and do not take subjects just because you would be labelled brilliant. Prioritise your work and interest and be open to criticism. 

Deeke Yolmo, doctor 

You should always try and find out your potential. One of my cousins cracked an engineering entrance examination but wanted to leave the course and is now studying theatre in Canada. Always choose a career that makes you happy. 

Tribeny Rai, filmmaker

I was forced to take commerce instead of arts by my family, but I was clueless. My teachers encouraged me to take up mass communication. I now do what I love most. It is okay to be clueless at times but you should know when to change.

During an interactive session, a student asked: "I don't have any ambition now?" Advocate Roshni's answer: "Stay healthy as health is most important, and, always be happy."