Double Hat trick of Hamdan and Sharjah Academic Awards by UAE student

Award-winning Indian student receives her third Sharjah Educational Award for Excellence in addition to thrice winning the Hamdan Award among UAE & GCC students earlier

Simran Vedvyas, a senior student, at Universal American School (UAS) received her third Sharjah Educational Award under the patronage of His Highness Dr. Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Ruler of Sharjah for the 22nd cycle of the Award. The award was presented to her by Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, HH Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi in a glittering ceremony held at University City hall, Sharjah UAE. In addition to thrice winning prestigious Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Distinguished Academic Performance in 2009, 2012 and 2015 and twice winning the Sharjah Award in 2008 and 2012, Simran becomes the first student from UAS to receive both National Awards and also makes a rare hat trick win for both awards in consecutive years.  The award includes a trophy, certificate and a cash prize.

Established 22 years ago, this award is instituted at the UAE National level by the Ruler of Sharjah H.H Dr. Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, for recognizing outstanding achievers and measuring exceptional academic distinction, leadership qualities, extracurricular interests as well as community contributions, activities and contests.

This award is a true celebration of Simran’s numerous achievements. Simran is honored as the youngest girl from the Middle East Region and one of the only six chosen from UAE to carry the esteemed Olympic Torch at the London Olympics UK 2012.  Simran’s other milestones include winning several distinguished International acclaims; namely GESS Education Award- Community Award for Citizenship 2016, Young Achiever Award 2015, for Young Brilliance on All India Level, Diana International Award UK 2014 as Diana Active Campaigner, International Eco Hero Award USA 2014, Puruskar at the National Level (India) shortlisted as best student for Paryavaranmitra Leader for Change 2014, and legendary John Muir Youth Environmental Conservation Award USA 2014 for her work as an environmentalist.  She is the youngest Emirates Women of the Year -2015 Young Achiever, and has also received the Splash ‘Heart of Gold’ in 2015.  Simran chooses to promote sustainable environment and healthy living for better future.

Mr. Andrew Torris, Director, Universal American School, praised Simran for being confident, and matured to handle her success well.  He continues to say that ‘Simran is a team player and her communication and leadership skills with a fun filled kind, honest heart make her special. She is responsible and dependable and has been an excellent pupil throughout her school career at UAS’.

Ms. Simone Sebban, Secondary Principal of UAS also congratulated Simran for her high level of leadership, respect and kindness that she exhibits towards her peers and added ‘Simran not only excels in academics but also in public speaking, dance, dramatics, swimming, art and craft, computers, photography and various other activities in school and beyond. Her multi-faceted personality finds expression through active participation in community development programs and charitable events and leadership through her founded group- SynergY’.

Simran believes that these awards have given her the opportunity to assess her own capabilities and talents by being the constant catalyst in her life.  In her words- ‘Winning the awards has pushed me to see myself; not only achieving more, but, also dreaming more every single day of my life’.  Simran is the Founder of SynergY youth group that is directing many youngsters to follow best practices by finding and believing in their talents.