2025 Round Square Conference: Step by Step School, Noida, India

School: Step by Step School, Noida
Location: India
Title: Empower, Engage, Elevate
Theme: Service
Age Group: 16–17 years
Dates: 23–27 April 2025

The Round Square Conference 2025, hosted by Step by Step School (SBS), Noida, was a vibrant convergence of youth leadership, global citizenship, and service. Over five transformative days, the event brought together 122 delegates from 17 schools across India and Sharjah, weaving bonds of dialogue, creativity, and community engagement. The conference unfolded as a celebration of connection, collaboration, and the profound impact of service.

The conference commenced on 23rd April with a lively icebreaker session that set an energetic tone. Delegates participated in a spirited Zumba dance session and a series of team-building games such as Dragon’s Tail, Chinese Get-Up, and Triangle Tag. These activities helped build instant camaraderie and eased students into the collaborative spirit of the week.

The official inauguration on 24th April featured a soul-stirring performance by the school’s choir and orchestra, blending Western and Indian classical music to symbolize global unity. Interim Principal Ms. Vijayshree Ranganathan and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Head of the SBS Governing Body, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the values of Seva (service) and inclusion, and highlighting the conference’s role as a crucible for positive change.

A highlight of the opening ceremony was the Flag Bearers’ Parade, where students from each participating school proudly carried their flags, visually symbolizing the unity in diversity that defines Round Square. The ceremony concluded with a poignant, student-produced film by the Technicolour club, showcasing SBS’s service initiatives and capturing the essence of selfless action.

The three Baraza sessions held on 24th, 25th, and 26th April formed the intellectual and emotional core of the conference. These intimate, student-led discussions prompted delegates to reflect deeply on their roles as catalysts for social change.

Baraza 1 drew inspiration from a powerful keynote address by Ms. Renana Jhabvala, a renowned social worker and SEWA leader. Her message, rooted in empathy-driven leadership, chronicled her journey from witnessing poverty to empowering women in the informal sector.

Baraza 2 was anchored in the conference’s immersive community service projects, where delegates engaged hands-on with diverse social initiatives across Noida, making tangible contributions and gaining powerful insights into the challenges faced by various communities.

Baraza 3 was sparked by a deeply moving panel discussion featuring Mr. Abhishek Ray (music composer and wildlife conservationist), Ms. Merry Barua (neurodiversity advocate), and Mr. Vicky Yadav (youth empowerment leader). Their powerful narratives of resilience, compassion, and transformative action reinforced the conference’s central message: meaningful change often emerges from personal adversity and the courage to serve others.

Throughout the conference, the SEVA Exhibition “Darpan”—held at the Suri Auditorium—served as a reflection of SBS’s enduring commitment to inclusive, empathetic action. Delegates showcased student-led initiatives supporting marginalized communities, including transgender and neurodivergent individuals, sparking important conversations and inspiring further advocacy.

A culminating moment of collective thought came in the form of the Baraza Statement, collaboratively crafted by all delegates:

“Collectively, we have come to the realization that service could start with a small act that has the potential to compound into a larger community initiative. To make a meaningful impact, all we require is commitment and a recognition of our own responsibility as changemakers in society. In order to imbibe this vision, it is essential to maintain consistency, have selfless intentions, and most importantly, never give up.”

The five-day event was not only a celebration of artistic and intellectual excellence but also an embodiment of empathy and collaboration. Delegates came together across borders to form a vibrant forum for cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and the celebration of our shared humanity.

Through its seamless blend of thoughtful discourse, creative collaboration, and purposeful action, the Round Square Conference 2025 at SBS set a new benchmark for international student gatherings. Delegates left not only as learners, but as empowered changemakers—ready to carry the torch of service into their communities and beyond.