From elocution to ramp walk: KMV’s versatile student excels on all fronts

From academics to literary, cultural and sports activities, Riya Juneja, a BA second-year student of Kanya Maha Vidyalaya (KMV), has proved herself an all-rounder.

Her latest achievement is securing the first prize in elocution at the Inter-Zonal Youth Festival of Guru Nanak Dev University held yesterday. Speaking on the topic ‘Cash Still Matters’, she highlighted the emotional attachment people have with currency and how it remains the only means to help a beggar or tip a waiter.

Daughter of Army officer Col Sandeep Juneja, Riya attributes her confidence to having studied in different parts of the country. “I completed my Class 12 from Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where I was also the CBSE topper of the Union Territory,” she said proudly.

Calling her return to Jalandhar a “homecoming,” Riya said, “It is my paternal hometown. Since joining KMV, I began exploring my capabilities beyond academics.” Her journey started with her participation in Ms Fresher, where she was declared runner-up, a moment she says boosted her confidence and inspired her to take part in more activities.

Soon after, she was nominated as class representative and later became the assistant head girl, actively contributing to student initiatives as part of the student council.

Though from the Humanities Department, Riya has ensured participation across all streams. She walked as a model in KMV’s annual fashion show ‘Sukriti’ organised by the Fashion Designing Department and performed in skits and stage acts for the English Department, including portraying William Shakespeare in ‘Lit-Mania’.

Her collaboration with the Economics Department earned her laurels as well. She anchored the Economics Fest and won the first prize for portraying Dr Shashi Tharoor in the Mock Budget Competition.

With the Computer Science Department, Riya showcased her entrepreneurial side, presenting business ideas and pitches on stage, winning first and second positions in consecutive years. In sports, she has won a medal in badminton and has also been an active member of NSS, participating in various social campaigns.

“One of my proud moments was being chosen as the face of KMV’s promotional video, representing the college’s vibrant and progressive spirit,” she shared. She has also anchored several major college events, including Diwali mela, talent fiesta and various cultural programmes. With her achievements across diverse fields, Riya stands out as a truly versatile student. She now aspires to appear for the civil services examination after graduation and has already begun her preparation.