On 1^st December, 2023, the Alexandra Girls’ English Institution hosted a day-long, spirited inter-school fest – ‘Alexcellencia – A Gateway to Excellence’. 14 schools across Mumbai showcased their students’ talents to compete for the Overall Best School trophy, with around 350 entries spread over 20 different categories including Street Play, Singstravaganza, Junior Picasso, Inkovation, Spell Bee and Rhythm Revolution.

Judges comprised distinguished professionals from various fields and esteemed Alumni teachers. Thirty Dadabhoy – consultant with ISDI ATLAS SkillTech, judged design aspirants, Meher Munshi – Principal of Little Hearts Pre-school, Tasneem Hoosein, Rianna Tarapore judged the fine arts competitions. Pearl Tirandaz – dancer choreographer and Merzi Pestonji – judge of Dance India Dance, judged the dance competition which was won by the troupe from Shri S.K.I Jain High School. Michelle Medeira was the Word Master of a thrilling Spell Bee round. Jane Borges, winner of the RedInk Journalism Award and Dayle Stanton, Speech and Drama teacher at various IB schools, picked the winners of extempore speaking. Theatre artists Kashmira Vazifdar and Vistasp Gotla judged the street play performances, which was won by The Blossoms S.T. English High School.

Speaking on the occasion, Hoshaang Gotla, Director – Alexandra School, said, “Ensuring fairness, the competition welcomed students from other schools whereas our students did not participate. Instead, we trained 45-50 senior girls to independently plan, execute, and organise the entire event, providing valuable exposure and learning opportunities.” Praising Hoshaang as “the visionary mastermind behind this event”, Kashmira Sarkari, school Principal, added, “At our school, we strive to break stereotypes and open doors which were otherwise shut… we nurture talent and leadership qualities in our girls by organising many such activities… Alexcellencia is not just about excellence shown by students from other schools but also excellence shown by The Alexandra Girls’ English Institution.”

The day ended with the final prize distribution where Panday School girls entertained the audience with a song mash-up. Hoshaang Gotla declared Bai Avabai Framji Petit Girls’ High School as winners of the coveted Overall Best School title. Jenefer Chesan – Vice Principal (C & CCA) gave the vote of thanks.