A Melodious Symphony

It was well said by Oprah Winfrey, 'The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude'.

These words are still instilled in my heart, helping us realise how powerful a shift in attitude can be, not only for individuals but for entire communities.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a universal call to action, aiming to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity and peace for all. Among these goals, exist gender equality that stands as a key pillar, recognizing the need to empower women and girls (as well as men) and eliminate gender-based discrimination. 

Evidently, I recall a memory that I haven’t been able to shake off for years - the day I tried out for the school band. I was quite passionate about music since I was a little kid: always dreamt of holding a huge drum with a pair of drumsticks along with a smile as wide as the ocean, walking with pride.

But what I didn’t expect was the discouragement that came with it. I remember standing there, my heart racing with excitement, as the teacher in charge of the band auditions looked over the crowd full of students. He scanned the room full of eager exhilarated students, most of them being young boys, before making his decision.

It was finally my turn - I held the drum stick, took a deep breath and started to play the perfect beat. As I struck the drum for the last beat - the deafening silence almost built a fortress of anxiety within me. 

And suddenly he spoke, “You know, girls don’t really know how to play instruments well,” he said dismissively, his voice casual.

“Band is a serious thing. It’s not something for girls.” And just like that I was escorted off the stage without a second thought.

Those very words felt like a heavy weight. I always believed that music and talent required no gender, yet here I was - shunned and disregarded. That incident became a turning point in my life: one that I constantly reflect on - I decided to take action and spoke to a few teachers, whom I knew I could trust. They listened patiently and understood my perspective. It was then that I knew, I was just one step closer, from making a small, yet a remarkable change. 

Steadily, things began to change. The school collectively took steps to address the point of equality more actively. For instance, discussions about the prevailing gender stereotypes and the importance of an inclusive environment took a significant stance even in classrooms.

The following year, our school made great effort to encourage girls to join the school band, and for the first time, we saw a real shift. What really excites me is to share that the band teacher himself realised his slip and took accountability. 

Fast forward to now, our school band is an animated blend of all students. 

Reminiscing about this, I realise that I’m no longer just a girl who wanted to play in the band, I’m part of a generation that believes in equality, and I know that our voices will be heard This experience taught me the power of speaking up for myself and for those voices who have been unknowingly silenced for a long time.

Today, I’m proud to be part of a school that respects and prioritises every gender. Moreover, it was not just about living my dream; it was about breaking down the irrationality of prevailed dominancy.

By Azalia Dsouza

Dr S Radhakrishnan International School, Malad (Grade 9B)

SDG Goal 5 - Gender Equality