By Jhamtse Gatsal student Yeshi L - School Captain 2019-2020

Being a captain in Jhamtse Gatsal is an amazing opportunity. We get a lot of chances to learn from each and every situation we face. I was in grade 10 when I was elected as the school captain. I was quite excited about my new role but also scared that I would have to take up the responsibility of correcting my seniors and perhaps even adults. As the year passed, my leadership qualities continued to develop. I had to improve my communication skills a lot to be able to solve issues that would arise among the children. I also struggled to manage my time. I had my team with whom I would coordinate and plan the duties throughout the campus like cleaning, working in the kitchen, gardens, etc. While managing all of this I had to face many difficulties but they taught me to overcome the situations and make better decisions. In the beginning it seemed impossible, but as time went by things became much easier for me with the skills I was gaining. Everything I have learnt as a captain is going to stay with me for life – especially the skills of managing my time and communicating with different people.

This year the elections were quite different because they happened during the lockdown. We had to organize it while maintaining social distancing and taking all precautions. We had 4 students contesting in the elections – all four from grade 11, and all four were volunteers – Sonam L, Gombu T, Dargey P. and Lobsang D. This was very heartening to me because I believe that when someone volunteers for a task, it means they really want to do it from the bottom of their hearts. It was wonderful to hear their agenda and plans. Out of all the great ideas they had, the ones that stood out for me were firstly, practicing punctuality with more fervor and secondly, practicing mindful eating in the kitchen. These were very inspiring. After listening to their agendas, we had some Q&A and then proceeded to cast our ballots. 

It felt strange to be casting our ballots with our masks on, but we knew it was essential. After we were done with the ballots and counting of the votes, we were called back for the results. Sonam L. and Lobsang D. had won! In addition to Dargey and Gombu, Sonam and Lobsang could choose one student each to be a part of their cabinet – they chose Tsering P. and Tenzin T. from grade 10. 

As my team and I handed the mantel over to them, I was very proud to see my brothers and sisters standing as the new leadership of the Community. This year we chose to name them the Community Captain and Cabinet rather than the school captain and cabinet. They have shared great ideas about how they are going to make a difference in the Community and I wish them all the best in their endeavour to do the same!

Yeshi L.

School Captain (2019- ‘20)