2025 RS Conference: Dhirubhai Ambani International School, India

• School: Dhirubhai Ambani International School
• Location: Ekta, India
• Theme: Internationalism
• Age Group: 12-14 Years
• Date: 10-13 September 2025

Hosted by Dhirubhai Ambani International School (DAIS) in India, the Round Square Conference EKTA brought together students from across India and beyond to explore peace, unity, conflict-resolution, and sustainable solutions to global challenges. Over several days, delegates immersed themselves in cultural exchange, service, and problem-solving, with DAIS students leading the way as confident hosts.

“Honestly, I do not even know where to begin,” admits Vaniya, President of the Conference. “This was such a rollercoaster. If I had to describe the Conference in one word, it would be exhilarating. The whole Conference was created from the idea that peace and unity are necessities in our lives. All we were trying to convey to students – the future leaders – is that they must implement this unity to create a world at peace and resolve conflict in the best way possible.”

Planning a Year in Advance

The planning of EKTA began over a year in advance. Core leaders, supported by middle school volunteers, engaged in weekly brainstorming sessions to refine the conference objectives, ensuring that each session aligned with Round Square ideals. Responsibilities were assigned, specialised teams created – Baraza, Adventure, Cultural, Media & Press, and Merchandise – and rehearsals and trial runs turned preparation into precision.

Students balanced their academic commitments alongside planning, staying connected during breaks, weekends, and summer holidays. Sanaya, Administrative Head, reflects:

“This Conference taught me to stay calm under pressure, manage time and people efficiently, and reinforced that true leadership lies in the details and the ability to adapt when things do not go as planned. It was a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable experience that shaped both my skills and perspective.”

The complexity of the event was intensified by the decision to host EKTA in Jamnagar, Gujarat, as Mumbai, the school’s home city, lacked sufficient accommodation. Teachers conducted site visits to assess logistics, yet the challenges became opportunities for growth. Manisha, Round Square Coordinator at the school, recalls:

“No challenge felt like a challenge. When given responsibility, the students became natural leaders. They took ownership and delivered.”

A Celebration of Culture and Service

The opening ceremony began with the customary Flag March, followed by cultural performances invoking traditional Indian blessings. Delegates then embraced Garba Night, part of the Navratri festival. “Every school was just so happy to be there,” says Vaniya. “We saw them gleam with joy as they began to dance adorned in their traditional costumes. It was fabulous to see.”

A visit to an Animal Welfare Centre allowed delegates to explore human-animal connections and develop solutions to foster coexistence. “We learned how animals had gone through trauma because of human beings,” explains Vaniya. “So we looked at solutions to help rejuvenate their lives. For example, creating safe environments or spending time with animals.”

Delegates also took part in the Sustainable Innovation Showcase (SIS), presenting technology-driven solutions to pressing environmental challenges. Ideas ranged from household food-waste collection systems to recycling initiatives. “We were amazed at how children aged just 12 to 14 years could think so far ahead,” says Vaniya. “It made us so sure that in the future we have the right people to lead our world.”

Further hands-on experiences included visits to a renewable energy centre and tree planting in the green belt, reinforcing empathy, service, and environmental awareness.

Leadership in Action

DAIS students served as Baraza leaders, coordinators, and hosts, managing hospitality, logistics, and communication with professionalism. They were trained by senior peers through mock sessions to handle complex discussions and encourage delegates during Barazas. Ayanna, Vice President, reflects:

“Leading this Conference has been an incredibly transformative experience. I’ve learnt a myriad of skills, with problem-solving at its core… I’ve learnt the true value of teamwork, resilience, and leading with purpose.”

Arishka, Head of Logistics, adds:

“Overseeing logistics was both challenging and rewarding… My advice to other schools would be to start early and build a committed team. With the right people and preparation, you can truly achieve anything. Event management is something I could genuinely pursue as a career. Beyond the professional growth, it also gave me unforgettable experiences – like planting a tree during our green belt walk, which made me feel deeply connected to nature.”

Behind the scenes, students took charge of delegations, guiding them through itineraries and ensuring all needs were met. Manisha notes:

“Very rarely did I need to step in. I felt I had a safety net with these students. They are natural-born leaders.”

Reflection and Enjoyment

The EKTA team emphasises that enjoyment is as important as preparation. “Every single break, we used to have fun, but we also got work done,” says Vaniya. “Interacting with people from different states of India, and even Dubai, taught us so much about different cultures and perspectives. We made sure that not only did our delegates enjoy themselves, but that we enjoyed the process too.”

Manisha believes the year-long preparation changed the students profoundly: “The confidence level zoomed. They are looking at things very differently now. No challenge feels like a challenge. They do not come with problems anymore, only with solutions. That attitudinal change is remarkable.”

And for the student leaders, the legacy is one of pride and possibility. As Anshka puts it: “Live in the moment. Enjoy what you have planned. Step back, see what you have created, and feel proud. That sense of accomplishment is so fulfilling.”

If you are planning a Round Square Conference, here are four things the hosts from DAIS suggest you might want to consider:

1. Plan Early and Meticulously

Begin preparations well in advance. Break down the tasks into stages, create contingency plans (Plan B, C, even Z), and allow extra time to solve last-minute issues. The more thorough the planning, the smoother the conference.

2. Build a Dedicated and Collaborative Team

Surround yourself with students who are committed and reliable. Divide tasks according to strengths and make communication a priority. A safe, open environment allows everyone to contribute solutions and build confidence together.

3. Lead with Hospitality and Confidence

Hosting a conference is about more than logistics. It is about making delegates feel welcome, cared for, and included. Take ownership, communicate clearly, and step up as leaders – both in planned roles (like Baraza leaders) and in spontaneous situations.

4. Enjoy the Experience 

Amidst the hard work, remember that Round Square conferences are about shared experience. Make time to celebrate cultural exchange, participate in activities, and reflect on what you are learning. If you enjoy the journey, so will your delegates.