GLORIOUS ALUMINUS OF PSBB 03. BAMA BALAKRISHNAN

Summary

In this episode of 'Our Glorious Alumni,' Bama Balakrishnan, a 1993 alumnus of PSBB Nungambakkam, shares her inspiring journey from school to becoming the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director at Northern Arc Capital. Reflecting on her 14 years at PSBB, Bama highlights the invaluable lessons in hard work, integrity, and social responsibility that have shaped her career in finance. She also offers advice for today's students, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, multidimensional success, and financial literacy. Her enduring connection with PSBB and the guidance of its visionary founder, Mrs. YGP, continue to inspire her professional and personal life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bama Balakrishnan, a 1993 alumna of PSBB Nungambakkam, reflects on her 14 years at the school, highlighting the influence of her teachers and the valuable lessons learned during her time there.
• 😀 The emphasis on multi-dimensional growth at PSBB, which helped Bama develop a balance between academic excellence and social responsibility, played a key role in her later career choices.
• 😀 Early school memories for Bama revolve around group activities like sports days, annual programs, and Christmas celebrations, which helped foster lifelong friendships and a sense of community.
• 😀 Teachers at PSBB not only taught academic subjects but also set an example of continuous learning and personal commitment, which inspired Bama and many others to excel in their careers.
• 😀 The core values taught at PSBB, including hard work, integrity, and excellence, shaped Bama's professional journey and remain central to her leadership approach today.
• 😀 Bama stresses the importance of believing in oneself, advising students, especially young women, to trust their instincts and pursue their convictions despite external doubts.
• 😀 The modern educational landscape is shifting, with today's students more inclined to explore unconventional career paths and global social issues, in contrast to the more traditional career routes of earlier generations.
• 😀 Bama encourages PSBB students to embrace a more holistic view of life, balancing professional success with personal growth, family, community, and giving back to society.
• 😀 She highlights the importance of financial literacy, especially for young women, and advises students to take charge of their finances early in life to secure a stable and fulfilling future.
• 😀 Reflecting on her own career journey, Bama emphasizes that professional life today is longer and more multi-staged, requiring constant reinvestment in oneself, career, and personal purpose.

Q & A

When did Bama Balakrishnan join PSBB, and what are some of her earliest memories of the school?

Bama joined PSBB in LKG and stayed there until graduation in 1993. Her earliest memories include participating in school projects, annual day celebrations, sports day, and Christmas celebrations, which she fondly remembers, especially singing in the chorus with friends.

How did Bama's academic interests evolve during her time at PSBB?

Bama initially had a keen interest in science, particularly in mathematics. However, by grade 10, she developed an inclination towards commerce. She reflects on the school's openness in supporting her decision and allowing her to explore her academic interests.

What did Bama appreciate most about her teachers at PSBB?

Bama appreciated the dedication and passion her teachers showed in their subjects. She highlights how teachers, especially in subjects like biology and mathematics, brought real-world examples into the classroom, making learning more relatable and engaging.

What values did PSBB instill in Bama that shaped her career in the corporate world?

PSBB instilled values such as hard work, integrity, discipline, and commitment. Bama emphasizes the importance of these values in her career, especially in leadership roles, where making ethical choices and balancing personal and professional success are crucial.

What did Bama mean by 'profit with purpose' in her career?

Bama refers to 'profit with purpose' as the idea of using one's skills and professional success not just for financial gain but also for contributing to society. She reflects on how PSBB emphasized social responsibility and the importance of giving back to the community.

How does Bama view the differences between her generation's career choices and those of today's students?

Bama observes that today's students, particularly young women, are more open to unconventional career paths. Additionally, there is a stronger focus on social consciousness and global citizenship, with students actively pursuing causes that matter to them beyond their immediate surroundings.

What advice does Bama give to current and future students of PSBB, especially young women?

Bama advises students to believe in themselves, pursue their convictions, and not be deterred by others' opinions. She stresses the importance of hard work, the need for multi-dimensional life choices, and balancing career, personal life, and social contributions.

How does Bama suggest students approach their financial future?

Bama encourages students to take control of their finances from an early age. She advises them to learn about managing money, investing, and planning their financial future, as it is an essential life skill that many overlook.

What impact did Mrs. YGP's leadership have on Bama and her peers?

Bama deeply admires Mrs. YGP for her visionary leadership and courage in shaping PSBB into the institution it is today. Mrs. YGP’s emphasis on values, discipline, and social responsibility has had a lasting influence on Bama and thousands of other students.

What is Bama's perspective on the evolving schooling ecosystem from a parent’s point of view?

Bama sees a shift in today's educational ecosystem, where students have more opportunities to explore unconventional career paths and are more socially conscious. She also notes that parents face dilemmas in supporting these choices, but ultimately, the current generation seems more prepared to break boundaries.