Vaibhav Giani

In a region overshadowed by conflict, he took it upon himself to shift the narrative, focusing on the extraordinary human equity that Kashmir possesses. His groundbreaking book, "The Kashmir Chromosome," weaves together 25 compelling stories of triumph and tribulation across various domains, showcasing the diverse talents of Kashmiris in sports, literature, poetry, governance, and more. This 16-year-old author's dedication to highlighting the achievements of Kashmiris, particularly women, has garnered widespread recognition. Our winner Vaibhav Giani’s book features inspiring tales, including the first female commercial pilot from Kashmir, the inaugural cricketer from the region to represent India internationally, and a woman who administered 6000 vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. A recipient of the 'Most Promising Young Talent' Award at the India Excellence Awards, Vaibhav's book has received acclaim from national media and prominent personalities like the King of Ladakh, Jamling Namgyal, and renowned photographer Raghu Rai. As the editor of La Martiniere For Boys' school magazine, "The Chronicle," he showcased his flair for writing and editorial hold. His writing skills extended to the international stage, where he won the Bronze Award in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Writing Competition amid fierce global competition. At the Model United Nations (MUN), Vaibhav's leadership shone brightly. As the Chairperson of his school's research team, he conducted workshops and a 4-month training program, preparing students for Inter-School MUNs. Vaibhav also excelled in inter-school business conclaves, winning awards in events like Shark Tanks, Mock Stock Events, and Pitch competitions. As the founder of the Commerce Society at La Martiniere For Boys, Vaibhav organised workshops attended by over 150 students, sharing insights into pitches, presentations, stock market investment, and business opportunities. Vaibhav Giani is an inspiration, showcasing that age is no barrier to achieving greatness and making a positive impact in society.