Reading about the frontliners battling the Covid-19 pandemic and risking their lives to save others made P. Kerrthiga, 16 realise that she wanted to become a nurse one day.
“I am amazed by their work and dedication to help and make a difference in the lives of others. If we ever experience any other health crisis such as this, I want to contribute and help too. That’s why I must study and become a nurse,” she said.
After attending the academic coaching classes offered at the Maharani Learning Lab (MLL) in Sungai Siput, Perak, Malaysia, Kerrthiga began to see improvement in her academic performance.
“The Maharani camps taught me how to discover my strength and find my interests. These things really helped my self-confidence. The academic classes at the MLL helped me improve my grades in school. I hope to achieve good results in the examination soon,” she said.
From the camps, Kerrthiga learned to be more disciplined and responsible especially with her school work.
“Before joining the Maharani programme, I wouldn’t finish my homework on time. But now I make sure to do it within the deadline. I have learned to become more independent and to make decisions wisely,” said Kerrthiga who joined the Maharani programme at the age of 12 and attended all the three phases of the Maharani camps.
“The first camp I joined was held at Batu Gajah, Perak. At the camp, we were encouraged to explore our individual identity to help build our confidence and self-esteem. The second camp held in Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor, which is one of my favourite camps, taught us to appreciate nature and learn basic survival skills. The third was held at Ipoh, Perak and here we were taught about girl empowerment, physical and mental strengths,” she said.
Apart from the camps and academic coaching classes, Kerrthiga also joined the baking and classical dance classes offered at the MLL.
The Maharani programme is special to Kerrthiga as that was when she was first given an opportunity to explore her leadership skills.
“I was made the leader during one of the camp activities. It was a great feeling to be seen as a leader and to have the trust of the instructor,” said Kerrthiga who has three other siblings.
“I would like to encourage others to also join in the Maharani programme as not all of us would have the opportunity to learn about ourselves and our potential at such a young age,” she said.
