While many parents in T&T are stressing over the fact that their children have SEA to write and that they should not take part in extra-curricular activities, young archer Kirese Maharaj has appeared on the scene to show them differently.
The 'A' student at TML Primary School in San Fernando has been very busy on and off the field making waves and demonstrating that both academics and the sport go hand in hand.
Her parents Kimdath and Dianne Maharaj have been very supportive of her exploits and they recently saw her emerged as the top student in the Sanfest Storytelling category, while at the same time, training hard for an upcoming archery tournament and maintaining her 'A' status in the classroom.
While doing all of this Kirese was able to come away as the top student at Sanfest, walking away with two trophies for two categories she won as well as another for the most outstanding performer overall.
The Southern Bowtech Academy student won first place in the storytelling, made it to the finals of the verse speaking, got a bronze medal in public speaking, another bronze for playing an instrument solo and a silver for performing a classical Indian dance in the modern dance category.
Speaking to T&T Guardian the grade four student who is also an avid swimmer said :"I always remain focus on what I want to do and in the end I am able to achieve it. Ever since I was small I always liked to do many things and was able to channel my energies into positive activities.
"When I am at home I focus on getting my studies out of the way and then I put great effort on all the other aspects of my life." The youngster was also high in praise of her parents saying that they are always right there with her giving all the support necessary.
"My parents have been giving me all the encouragement and this is important because they are like my coaches. They are always there offering words of advice and comfort and this has paved the way for me so far.
"I want to continue excelling in all fields in order to make them proud and I am not afraid of all the hard work to come."