Mentorship
I Missed My Work Anniversary. Turns Out, That Was the Real Celebration
Somewhere between designing curricula, mentoring children, and creating workshops, the first anniversary of The Write Compass quietly slipped past me. Maybe that’s what happens when you’re finally doing work that feels like flow — time stops needing to be measured. A year ago, I took a leap of faith I wasn’t sure I was ready for, much like the first time I was pushed into the deep end of a swimming pool as a child. I kicked, splashed, panicked… and then found my rhythm. That’s what this year has been — learning to swim in new waters, and realising I’m exactly where I need to be.
Travel
A Week in Almaty: A 10th Grader’s Ski Adventure in Kazakhstan
10th grader Maya Malhotra, from Mahindra International School, Pune, takes readers through a vivid, heartfelt photo essay documenting her week‑long ski trip to Almaty, Kazakhstan. What began as a much‑needed break after exams quickly turned into a journey of discovery, challenge, and quiet confidence. From tense moments at the airport to the thrill of skiing at 3,200 feet, Maya captures every detail with clarity and warmth. Her reflections on wrong skis, powdery snow, sunlit slopes, and the simple joy of getting better each day reveal a young writer who observes deeply and expresses with honesty.
Planet
Why the Moon’s Beginning Inspires Me: A Student’s Reflection on the Giant Impact Hypothesis
8th Grader Advika Karve, studying in JBCN International School, Mumbai, explores the Giant Impact Theory with a sense of wonder and curiosity. What fascinates her most is how something as turbulent as a planetary collision could create the Moon we admire today. In her essay, she reflects on how the theory blends destruction with creation, showing that even catastrophic events can lead to something beautiful and life‑shaping. For Advika, the Moon’s origin story is more than just science; it’s a reminder that new beginnings can rise from chaos, just as our Moon emerged from a dramatic cosmic impact.
People & Culture
The Rise and Evolution of Breakdance: From Bronx Streets to Global Stages
8th grader Advika Karve from JBCN International School, Mumbai explores the powerful journey of breakdance from the streets of the Bronx to global recognition. Through her research, she uncovers how breaking began as a form of expression for African‑American and Latino youth and eventually transformed into a worldwide cultural movement. Advika highlights the dance’s creative influences, iconic crews, and the four foundational elements that shaped its evolution. She also reflects on breaking’s rise to the Olympic stage and its impact on young dancers today. Her writing captures both the history and heart of a dance form that continues to inspire millions.
