Born and brought up in the Emerald Island, from a tender age Raifa believed that she could take on the world banking on her oratory skills and sound roots.

 “In school, I had a role to play in every single activity that took place,” she proudly recalls. “I was a member of the United Nations Club, a Girl Guide and House Captain and took up many other responsibilities.”

Currently pursuing her BBM course at GCC, Raifa has always been called upon to host shows on campus and beyond. She has also helped organize many of the function in her departmental and was the student's coordinator of Talents Week.

An avid cricket fan, Raifa led the BBM girls' team to the championship in the first year. And with all the extra curricular activities, she has maintained a good academic record as well.

Trivia

Best sports: Cricket

Diet- Sri Lankan food –Kottu Rotti, Rice and Curry

Music - Sri Lankan music

Best Song – Kiri Kodu(Sri Lankan)

Dislikes- Wasting time.

Best Moments- Being on the stage/ When at home during holiday enjoying with the family

Most Hated - 'I'

Role Models - Parents

Worst moment –Don't want to talk about it.

Banking on her Roots

A recipient of the prestigious GCC Most Outstanding Student of BBM Award, Raifa's love for her motherland knows no bounds. A firm believer in one Sri Lanka, GCC World Correspondent Shanghinie spent time talking to her on a host of issues, multitasking abilities, her future plans, and much more. Excerpts from the Interview:

1. Tell us about your formative years?

(Smiles) My formative years, I should say was interesting. I was a part of every activity that happened in school. I was a member of school band, the Girl Guides movement and was a member of the United Nations. I liked sports a lot and took part in many sporting activities. I was a member of the school netball team. All the activities that I have taken part in have moulded me into what I am today.

2. You have been a part of various activities in school and here in GCC. How do you balance your academics and the numerous pursuits you have taken up?

(Proudly) In school, it was different because we rarely got time to be focused on academics and the busy schedule we had. All the same, I was resolute that I should not go down in my grades and by God's grace I have maintained my grades as well during my 'O' and 'A' Level exams. In college, it has been different because the curriculum is

planned in such a way that we have enough time to manage our academics. So I have never had problem managing my academics with my extra curricular activities. I should also add her that it comes down to time management. To be successful, it is imperative that you manage your time well. There are no two ways about it.

3. Your experiences at Garden City College?

GCC has given me a great platform and lifted my spirits. I am grateful to this institution for giving the opportunities it provides for the students to showcase their hidden talents. I'm also thankful to all the faculty members drawn from different departments of the college and the support staff who have been so kind and helpful at all times. GCC has

also been a forum to meet people from all over the world. Because of the college, I have met some amazing people in my life.

4. You have been the MC for many events in college since the first semester. Your experiences as an accomplished MC?

(Smiles) Well, it was not a new thing for me since I have been an MC in my school days as well. I was a debater and have won many awards for oratory. From my childhood, I always had knack for conversation. So I developed early in life as strong desire for public speaking. With that my confidence grew as well. I always had a passion to talk to

people. I was the M.C for one of the biggest talent shows back home in Sri Lanka.

5. This will be your final year in college, what next?

I want to successfully complete my BBM, and then do something related to banking. I come from a banking background (both my father and brother are bankers) and similarly I see myself making a contribution in the same sector as well. Since I am a firm believer in team work, I hope to live up to that. I always insist on the word 'We' and not “I”. Before coming to GCC, I was working for the City Group for sometime to gain professional experience. I thought I should finish my higher education and then get back to the Group. Further, I want to make it big in the communication domain.

6. You have been in India for the past three years. Can you share with us some of your experiences?

India has helped me learn the lessons of life. But on the whole, I must say that it has been a great experience coming here. I have had the opportunity of meeting people from diverse cultures. I admire the Indian culture a lot. I am fascinated by it.

7. The motto you follow in life?

Success in life does not depend on how happy you are but how happy others can be because of you.

8. Finally, your advice to Gardenians?

GCC is a platform to many opportunities that help identify hidden talents. Students should make the maximum use of such a forum and help keep the GCC flag flying high at all times.

Shanghinie.S.

BA (Journo, Psy & Eng)