Multifaceted Prodigy Winning Hearts Across Entrepreneurship, Quizzing, Debating! Meet Kannv Dhandhania, 18 under 18 winner

Kannv who has emerged as an all-rounder across quizzing, debating, entrepreneurship and even making a mark as a writer-director was announced as one of the winners of The Telegraph Online Edugraph 18 under 18 Awards 2024. Barry O'Brien rightly describes him as "a worthy member of the Neil O'Brien quizzing lineage" and Parnab Mukherjee calls him "the most furious quizzer he has seen in the past decade."

“It’s an honour to have been found worthy of being one of the winners of The Telegraph Online Edugraph 18u18 and I’ve been overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement. It has been something I've looked forward to ever since I filled my nomination form and the triumphant feeling of victory makes me elated. Our Honourable Chief Guest, Mrs Sudha Murthy is someone we’ve all heard of and she’s one of the very few people you never hear anything negative about. When I saw her for the first time on the day of the event, with that warm and welcoming smile on her face, I understood why. She has an unparalleled aura and the energy of a friend and yet the insights she shares are invaluable beyond expression,” said Kannv.

An articulate speaker, he is the captain of the School Debate Team and Head Delegate of the MUN Team with several best speakers and best delegate prizes. From ideation to execution, Kannv has showcased leadership qualities that are well beyond his years.

“I’ve always believed that every contribution, irrespective of the perceived effect, holds immense value in one’s journey and hence deserves the acknowledgement, respect, and gratitude we often fail to give it. My journey wouldn’t have been fruitful enough if not for the innumerable contributions and beliefs of several near and dear ones. Off the top of my head I would like to thank my parents, friends, and my institution - Birla High School for backing me and strengthening my belief in myself but there are several more who deserve to be thanked and they do, rightfully, have my immense appreciation,” added Kannv.

His triumphs in quizzing competitions have seen him outshine his peers. He was the first student quizmaster of the Inter-House Quiz and the Chairperson of the BHS MUN 2023.

A budding entrepreneur, he established a business culture among his peers and made the school business team a force to be reckoned with. Being a cinema enthusiast, he wrote several scripts and directed several plays, creating beautiful works in English, German, Bangla, and Hindi. But Kannv’s achievements do not stop there, this young man is also committed to philanthropy and promotes initiatives on mental health, COVID-19 awareness, and menstrual health.

“Thinking about the past and future are very risky territories for I’ve never been good with hindsight or foresight - but aspirations never have boundaries do they? My fascination with business and my want to give back to society would ideally see me want to become an entrepreneur and a philanthropist, but the journey ahead is going to be much longer and more turbulent than the one I’ve had to date and all I do is hope I live up to my expectations,” signs off Kannv.

His journey is nothing short of inspirational, showcasing a rare combination of intellect, eloquence, business acumen, and artistic talent. The Telegraph Online Edugraph congratulates him for his achievements and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavours.

Click here to learn more about Kannv’s journey.