There was an infectious energy in the BJPC auditorium as participants, parents, guests and dignitaries assembled for the Valedictory Function of the 35^th Holiday Programme for Youth (HPY) on 5^th June 2022.

The event started with Er. Firdaus Pavri invoking the blessings of Lord Ahura Mazda with a short prayer. Diana Marfatia, the driving force behind this initiative that has touched the lives of over 7000 Zoroastrian youth for nearly 35 years, introduced the dignitaries on the dais – BPP Chairman – Armaity Tirandaz, Trustees – Anahita Desai, Viraf Mehta, Xerxes Dastur, Hoshang Jal as also Justice Shahrukh Kathawalla.

Sharing his experience at HPY 2022, participant Sarosh Motafram said, “Our organisers have been so encouraging and supportive in helping us overcome our limitations. Over these two weeks, experts from various fields have guided us on topics like careers, mental health, crypto currency and even cyber safety. The various activities and competitions have inculcated in us core values like team spirit and confidence. At HPY we have created cherished memories and friendships.”

This was followed by the much looked forward to prize distribution, where Diana Marfatia announced the winners, who were felicitated by dignitaries. The prizes were for different categories including – Literary Arts, Debate, Just a Minute (JAM), Sports, WZCC Trophy, Performing Arts, Fashion, HPY Bawa/Bawi competition and talent. The most awaited part of the prize distribution was the crowning of ‘Mr. HPY’ and ‘Ms. HPY’ – which were won by Rayan Raimalwalla and Michelle Crawford, respectively. The participants had been divided into four groups and their scores were prominently on display: Achievers (174), Creators (149), Enactors (159) and Performers (151).

The Guest of Honour and HPY Alumnus Hormuz Ragina, Head, Corporate Communications, Eureka Forbes, then regaled the audience with his humourous, witty but nonetheless thought-provoking speech. Sharing his own life experiences, he let the youth know the importance of perseverance. Some of the gems he shared included, “use your time well, because dreams last forever but time doesn’t”; “the moment you stop learning, you start becoming old”; “people typically work for a paycheck and not passion, don’t become one of them.”

Diana then gave a glowing introduction to Chief Guest – eminent Jurist and Lawyer – Justice Shahrukh Kathawalla, who commended the organisers for their work over the past three and a half decades. He shared some life lessons with the youth, “There is no substitute for hard work; Our parents are the two individuals who will stand by us and give us unconditional love; Experience the power of our prayers and don’t discard our age old traditions by being ill informed and keeping a closed mind; We all want instant success but there is immense satisfaction in growing steadily; Do your teachers and community proud and never forget your community when you achieve success.”  He received a resounding standing ovation.

The josh was certainly high when the participants and organisers put up a variety entertainment program for the audience. The evening ended with a vote of thanks followed by the Parsi Anthem, ‘Chhaiye Hame Zarthosti’, and closed with the National Anthem.