Every once in a while, life presents you with moments that are both humbling and heartwarming moments that blend honor, joy, and just a hint of unexpected humor. I had the distinct privilege of experiencing one such moment recently when I was invited as the Chief Guest for the convocation ceremony at SIES College of Management Studies, India.
The invitation was a delightful surprise and, truthfully, brought with it a mix of excitement and slight amusement. As someone deeply involved in the corporate world, particularly in the areas of leadership, transformation, and project delivery, it felt surreal to don the academic robe and take the stage not as a speaker at a business summit or corporate roundtable, but as a guide even if just for a few minutes to the graduates of the MCA and MMS programs.
A Day of Celebration, Wisdom, and Wizardry
The atmosphere at the ceremony was electric. Students, faculty, proud parents, the entire auditorium buzzed with a beautiful mix of nostalgia, pride, and anticipation for what lies ahead. I had the honor of presenting degree certificates to the graduating class, watching their eyes light up as they stepped forward in their caps and gowns. It’s not every day you get to feel like a mix of professor, wizard, and superhero and trust me, the academic robe made me feel like all three!
But beyond the ceremonial splendor, what made the day truly memorable was the opportunity to deliver the Keynote Speech. I knew this wasnβt just a talk, it was a rare and precious chance to offer something meaningful to a room full of bright, young minds on the cusp of new beginnings.
Sharing Stories and Corporate Lessons
My keynote wasnβt filled with jargon or lofty theories. Instead, I shared stories from the trenches of the business world, from boardrooms, from teams navigating change and chaos. I spoke about the unpredictable journey of career growth, the value of persistence, and the importance of staying grounded no matter how high you soar.
One message I emphasized was the relevance of project management skills in every industry. Whether youβre launching a startup, joining a multinational, or entering public service, the ability to manage time, resources, and people effectively is a game-changer. Organizations today highly value professionals whoβve honed such skills, a fact that institutions like the Project Management Institute continue to champion through global certifications and standards.
For graduates interested in excelling in dynamic work environments, aligning with frameworks and principles endorsed by institutions like the Project Management Institute can provide a distinct edge. It offers not only credibility but also a clear structure for leading projects, handling complexity, and delivering results.
For the Graduating Class of 2025
To the incredible Class of 2025, I offered my heartfelt congratulations. Youβve just crossed a major milestone. But remember, your degree isnβt just a certificate, it’s a passport to new adventures. Whether your path leads you into technology, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship, take this moment to reflect and celebrate, but also to dream bigger.
The world youβre entering is fast-paced and full of challenges, but it’s also brimming with opportunity. Your education has equipped you with the tools to tackle problems, ask the right questions, and build meaningful careers. The rest will come with time, experience, and a lot of learning outside the classroom.
The Power of Lifelong Learning
One of the key themes I touched on in my talk was the importance of lifelong learning. The truth is your degree marks the beginning, not the end of your learning journey. In the corporate landscape, upskilling isnβt just a buzzword, itβs a necessity.
Many of the most successful professionals Iβve worked with over the years make learning a continuous habit. They attend webinars, take online courses, earn certifications, and stay connected with global communities. For those inclined toward leadership or operational excellence, pursuing programs through the Project Management Institute is a powerful way to stay ahead.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As I stood there in that beautifully decorated auditorium, surrounded by the bright minds of tomorrow, I felt immense gratitude. Thank you to the SIES College management, faculty, and staff for the incredibly warm welcome and impeccable hospitality. You created an environment where tradition and transformation go hand in hand where students not only graduate with degrees but with values that will carry them far.
And thank you to the students, for your smiles, your spirit, and the quiet confidence that you carried into that room. I left inspired by your enthusiasm and hopeful for the future youβre going to create.
Final Thoughts
Being invited as Chief Guest at the SIES College convocation was more than just a formal honor, it was a soul-stirring experience. It reminded me of why I do what I do, and how important it is to give back, share knowledge, and be a small part of someone elseβs journey.
To the graduates: Go forth and make magic happen. Whether you end up building companies, leading teams, or innovating for social change, do it with courage and compassion. And never forget your education is your foundation, but your mindset is your true superpower.
Here’s to your next chapter.
