Guwahati Student Chosen as Youth Ambassador to the United States

Aadi Singha, a bright student from St. Francis De Sales (SFS) School in Guwahati, Assam, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected as a Youth Ambassador of India under the prestigious Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (KL-YES) Program. This esteemed and highly competitive program is sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and provides a fully funded opportunity for Indian high school students to study and live in the United States while participating in cultural diplomacy. Aadi is one of only two students selected from Assam this year, making her accomplishment even more significant.

To celebrate this achievement, the school organized a press meet on campus that was attended by key figures from the SFS community, including Principal Rev. Fr. George Thomas, Academic Director Sangeeta Bharali Dutta, and Aadi’s proud parents. The event served as both a moment of recognition for Aadi and an inspiration for fellow students.

During the press meet, Rev. Fr. George Thomas praised Aadi’s hard work, calling her selection a moment of great pride for the entire SFS community. He emphasized that her success reflects not only her individual effort but also the nurturing environment of the school that supports and encourages excellence in academics and co-curricular engagement.

Aadi addressed the audience with humility and confidence. She spoke about her experience during the rigorous application process and how it shaped her understanding of leadership, responsibility, and cross-cultural dialogue. She expressed heartfelt gratitude toward her teachers, mentors, and parents for their unwavering support. “Being selected for the KL-YES Program is an incredible opportunity. I’m truly grateful to everyone who believed in me and helped me through the journey,” she said.

The KL-YES program is known globally for its mission to build bridges between cultures and promote mutual understanding through youth exchange. It enables students to stay with American host families, attend high schools in the U.S., and participate in community service and public diplomacy efforts. Through this immersive experience, students like Aadi gain first-hand exposure to American culture, values, and institutions, while also sharing the rich traditions of India with their host communities.

The press meet concluded with an interactive session where media representatives engaged with Aadi and the school faculty to learn more about the KL-YES program and the selection process. Krishna Medhi, the Public Relations Officer, delivered the vote of thanks. He appreciated the media’s role in bringing stories like Aadi’s to the forefront and inspiring other young changemakers across the region.

This achievement not only highlights Aadi’s personal excellence but also places St. Francis De Sales School and Assam on the global map for academic and cultural exchange. It stands as a testament to what dedication, guidance, and opportunity can together accomplish. As Aadi prepares for her journey to the United States, her story continues to inspire her peers to aim high and embrace international opportunities for learning and leadership.