The Leadership Camp for Class XI students was organized from 15th April till 23rd April ‘25 with the objective of fostering awareness, empathy and leadership skills among participants. The camp aimed to sensitively address various social issues, promote inclusivity and empower students to become effective leaders and agents of positive change within their communities.
The primary objectives of the camp were:
- To raise awareness and promote understanding of diverse social issues such as gender equality, mental health and inclusivity.
- To develop leadership skills, communication abilities, teamwork and problem-solving capabilities among Class XI students.
- To provide opportunities for students to engage in experiential learning activities that foster personality development
- To inspire and empower students to take proactive initiatives towards addressing social challenges and making a positive impact within their communities.
- To equip students with essential life skills, knowledge, and attitudes to become well-rounded individuals and effective leaders.
Throughout the leadership camp, our Principal,Ms. Seema Bharti Mishra, played pivotal roles in fostering encouragement and motivation among the students. Her steadfast support and enthusiasm acted as catalysts, encouraging active participation and maximizing the learning opportunities available. Under her guidance, students felt empowered to uncover their capabilities,tackle challenges head-on and cultivate crucial leadership aptitudes.
The role of the counsellor, Ms. Dimple Vij, in designing and implementing the camp was invaluable, serving as the backbone of the entire endeavour. Her expertise in understanding the developmental needs of students, coupled with insights into psychological well-being, ensured that the camp was thoughtfully crafted to address a wide range of challenges and opportunities.
The camp featured interactive workshops and discussions facilitated by experts and guest speakers on various social issues. Topics included Gender Equality, Personality Development, Mental Health, Cyberbullying, Awareness About the POCSO Act, diversity and inclusion and new age careers in India and overseas. These workshops aimed to broaden students’ perspectives, foster empathy and promote critical thinking on pressing societal issues.
Participants engaged in leadership training sessions focused on developing essential leadership skills such as effective communication, decision-making, conflict resolution and teamwork. Through experiential learning activities, role-plays and group discussions, students were equipped with practical tools and strategies to become confident and empathetic leaders.
Outdoor activities and team-building exercises were designed to promote collaboration, trust and camaraderie among participants. Throughout the camp, participants engaged in reflection sessions to process their learning experiences, identify personal growth areas and set goals for future leadership endeavours. Facilitators guided students in developing action plans to translate their newfound knowledge and skills into meaningful actions.
Sessions were conducted on the following topics:
1. UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL:THE POWER OF A GROWTH MINDSET
(Resource Person:Mr.Shirish Gupta,Founder,Mnemonic)
This empowering session introduced students to the transformative concept of a growth mindset. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, Mr. Gupta emphasized the importance of embracing challenges, learning from failure and developing resilience. Self-assessment exercises helped students discover their personal strengths and aspirations, while structured reflections guided them in setting SMART goals. The session culminated in students creating individualized action plans to nurture their passions and overcome limiting beliefs.
2. PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT
(Resource Person: Ms. Jyotsana Bhardwaj, Courtesy:Macmillan Education)
This engaging workshop focused on nurturing students’ inner potential and cultivating essential personality traits that contribute to personal and professional success. Ms. Jyotsana Bhardwaj guided the students through a journey of self-discovery, confidence building and effective communication. The session began with an exploration of what personality truly means—highlighting the interplay of one’s thoughts, behaviour, emotions and social interactions. Students learned about the key components of a strong personality, including positive attitude, emotional intelligence, adaptability and presentation skills.
3. UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
(Resource Person: Ms. Arushi Suri,Dept. Of Mental Health & Behavioural Sciences, Fortis Hospital):
This session served as a crucial platform for promoting mental health awareness. Students explored the dimensions of emotional intelligence, including empathy, self-regulation and motivation. Personality quizzes, role-plays and group dialogues encouraged participants to identify their emotional triggers and learn healthy coping mechanisms. Ms. Suri highlighted the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues and seeking timely support, equipping students with tools to navigate academic and social stressors.
4. NEWAGE CAREERS IN INDIA AND OVERSEAS
(Mr.Jitin Chawla,Director,Centre for Career Development)
Mr. Chawla provided students with a panoramic view of evolving career landscapes, both in India and abroad. He discussed high-demand sectors such as data science, environmental law, entrepreneurship and creative arts. The session also focused on emerging interdisciplinary careers that blend technology with humanities. Guidance was provided on choosing the right subjects, building relevant skills and leveraging internships and MOOCs to stand out in a competitive academic world.
5.PROFILE BUILDING
(Mr.Praveen Khanna : Courtesy:Pratham)
Students were introduced to the key components of a strong academic and co-curricular profile. The session emphasized the importance of consistent participation in school activities, community service, internships and skill certifications. Mr. Khanna shared tips on organizing achievements effectively, maintaining a personal portfolio and aligning co-curriculars with future career goals. Practical advice was also offered on preparing for interviews and writing compelling Statements of Purpose (SoPs).
6. DECODING CUET (Common University Entrance Test)
(Resource Person: Mr.Yash Kumar and Mr.Dhruv Kumar: Courtesy SRCC):
An informative session was organized to familiarize students with the structure, content and preparation strategies for the CUET, a standardized entrance exam for higher education institutions. Tips for exam readiness and stress management were shared.
7. Gender Sensitization and Understanding the POCSO Act -Know Your Rights
(Resource Persons: Ms.Varuna and Ms.Shifa Nerekar: Courtesy HAQ NGO):
This session aimed at fostering gender sensitivity and educating students about their legal rights under the POCSO Act. Through case studies, open discussions and interactive activities, students learned about safe and unsafe behaviours, consent, boundaries and respectful conduct. The facilitators encouraged students to be active bystanders and contribute towards creating a gender-inclusive and abuse-free environment. Legal frameworks were explained in student-friendly language to empower informed decision-making.
8. The SCIENCE OF FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE
(Resource Persons: Mr.Binoy Mathew and Mr.Subimal Banerjee: Courtesy: VHAI and SPYM):
This eye-opening session tackled the psychological roots of FOMO and its link to anxiety, social media addiction, and risky behaviours. Students explored how peer pressure and a constant need for validation can lead to experimentation with harmful substances. Through stories and real-life scenarios, students were educated about the physical, mental and social consequences of substance abuse. The resource persons promoted self-awareness, digital moderation and peer support as tools for prevention.
9.SETTING HEALTHY BOUNDARIES IN RELATIONSHIPS
(Resource Person: Mr. Roshni Mehta,Dept. of Mental Health & Behavioural Sciences, Fortis Hospital):
Focused on promoting emotional well-being, this session helped students understand the concept of personal boundaries in friendships and romantic relationships. Ms. Mehta discussed the importance of saying “no”, recognizing toxic patterns and practicing assertiveness. Through scenarios and reflective exercises, students learned how to maintain mutual respect, communicate needs and protect their mental health in interpersonal interactions.
10. THE POWER OF YOUR VOICE AGAINST CYBERBULLYING
(Resource Person: Mr. Praveen Khanna: Courtesy Pratham):
The session addressed the impact of peer influence and bullying on mental health and well-being. Students learned strategies for building positive relationships, assertiveness and seeking support to address peer-related challenges.
The workshop focused on promoting positive self-image, self-esteem and self-acceptance among students. Through introspection and self-reflection exercises, participants explored their identities, values and beliefs.
As part of the camp, students of Class XI participated in a series of educational visits to various non-profit organizations across Delhi. These thoughtfully curated visits aimed to raise awareness and sensitize students to pressing social issues, encouraging empathy, social responsibility and a broader understanding of community challenges.
Visit to The Delhi Society for the Welfare of Special Children (DSWSC)
At DSWSC, students learned about the educational and rehabilitative support provided to children with special needs. The visit included an orientation by the institution’s staff and classroom observations, where students witnessed individualized teaching methods tailored to cognitive and physical differences. Conversations with educators and support staff highlighted the significance of patience, empathy and inclusive education. Students left with a better understanding of how tailored interventions can help children thrive and the importance of equal opportunities for all.
Visit to National Association for the Blind (NAB), R.K. Puram
The visit to NAB sensitized students to the realities faced by individuals with visual impairments. Through demonstrations of Braille learning, assistive software and vocational training workshops, students were introduced to tools that enhance independence and self-confidence in the visually challenged. This immersive experience helped foster a deeper sense of gratitude, empathy and social responsibility. Students appreciated the importance of accessibility, technological innovation and societal support in empowering those with different abilities.
Visit To Cheshire Home
The visit to Cheshire Home offered students a meaningful opportunity to understand the lives and experiences of individuals with physical and neurological disabilities. Through heartfelt interactions with residents and caregivers, students were introduced to the importance of compassion, dignity and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Observing rehabilitation therapies, assistive technologies, and daily routines helped students gain deeper empathy and an appreciation for inclusivity and care-driven environments. The experience encouraged reflection on societal responsibilities and the value of creating an inclusive world.
Visit to Muskaan NGO
The visit to Muskaan NGO provided students with a first-hand understanding of social issues and community service. They interacted with beneficiaries and volunteers, learning about the organization’s initiatives to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities. Through engaging activities and interactions, students gained empathy, compassion and a deeper appreciation for inclusivity and social responsibility.
The educational visits to the National Museum, Delhi Metro Museum, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, and Muskaan NGO enriched students’ learning experiences, fostering cultural appreciation, technological understanding, inspiration and social consciousness. These visits not only broadened their perspectives but also instilled values of heritage preservation, innovation, leadership and social empathy.
The Leadership Camp for Class XI provided a comprehensive learning experience, covering a wide range of topics essential for personal and professional development. Through interactive sessions,workshops and activities, students gained valuable insights, skills and attitudes to navigate the challenges of adolescence and prepare for their future roles as leaders and responsible citizens.
A special mention and sincere appreciation for all the invaluable support rendered by the fine arts, physical education as well as dance and theatre departments in making this camp a great success. We are immensely thankful to Ms. Kavita Sharma for conducting the rejuvenating Yoga sessions, promoting physical and mental well-being among our students. Our gratitude extends to all the guest speakers for sharing their expertise and enriching our students’ knowledge. Special thanks to the support staff and volunteers for their tireless efforts in coordinating and ensuring the smooth execution of the camp activities. We also extend our appreciation to the students for their active participation, enthusiasm and exemplary behaviour throughout the camp. Finally, we express our gratitude to the parents for entrusting us with the education and holistic development of their children. Your unwavering support and encouragement are invaluable to us.
