The Aquila School, part of International Schools Partnership (ISP) recently hosted a special assembly with IRONMAN star and athlete, Rohit Verma. Rohit spoke to year 7 pupils about his passion for health, fitness and education and how it has enabled him to pursue his dreams and aspirations. Aiming to inspire and motivate pupils, the online assembly focused on The Aquila School’s mission for pupils to experience amazing learning opportunities to make as much progress possible and be fully prepared for the next part of their education, employment or training.
The assembly was attended by the whole year group where they had the opportunity to listen to Rohit as he talked to them about the importance of being passionate about something and working hard to achieve it. Rohit shared his journey from going to medical school and then qualifying as a chartered accountant, to becoming a world class triathlete, competing in the world championships and IRONMAN challenges. Rohit is now a Level 3 qualified fitness coach, an Ironman certified coach, ICC Level 1 cricket coach and head coach at Orange Theory Fitness, Dubai. Pupils were given an opportunity to ask probing and insightful questions.
“It is important to model to our young people what is possible if you follow your dreams; have a strong work ethic and be relentless in pursuing your interests and passion. This is the 21st Century – there is vast scope for our young people beyond the more traditional career pathways. I want to inspire the next generation to dream big and be the best versions of themselves,” Rohit explained.
Rohit shared his personal experience to demonstrate the importance of good habits and determination to succeed. In 2007, he weighed 105kgs and was unfit. However, he opted for a series of conscious decisions to change the life he was leading. From being obese, to now weighing 75kgs, he takes part in multiple amateur cricket world championships, is ranked in the top 20 in Dubai in squash, has completed 9 IRONMAN races and qualified for the world championships. Rohit is an advocate for young people to participate in sports and encourages them to follow their passions, interests and talents.
Lee Fabia, Head of Secondary at The Aquila School, said “It was a pleasure to host Rohit at our school. At Aquila we believe that every lesson counts – this includes learning experiences in and out of the classroom. This is why, even during online learning, our secondary pupils are happy and love school, as learning is relevant, engaging and pupils’ unique talents and interests are nurtured and encouraged. As a part of the robust and comprehensive secondary curriculum we have planned for our pupils, they will have meaningful experiences – trips and visits, social and cultural events and inspirational speakers to equip them with skills for the future to lead happy and fulfilling lives.”
“We are looking forward to welcoming our secondary pupils back to school in September, and we will be offering them the broadest curriculum possible, all while maintaining their health and safety. We are very well placed to continue to be responsive to the evolving situation and implement practices and procedures that adhere to the guidelines provided by the authorities. Since our school is newer, we have the benefit of a large campus area that will allow us to easily accommodate all our children on site during normal school hours, while still ensuring all social distancing practices are in place,” he said.