Sweety Roy of Kalyani Public School, Barasat, discovered a hidden talent last January. Walking the ramp for the first time, she rocked it with the best model trophy.

Sweety can’t wait to return to the TTIS Challenge stage this year, even though her exams are around the corner.

TTIS Challenge 2020, presented by the Subhas Bose Institute of Hotel Management, kicks off in the Kund area of City Centre Salt Lake on January 16. The inter-school competition that sees participation from all over Bengal will end on January 19.

More than 100 schools are scheduled to participate in the 15th edition of TTIS Challenge, which has given wings to many dreams over the years. “I had no idea that I could be so confident on stage. TTIS Challenge showed me what I was capable of. This year I will try hard to squeeze in time for the Fashion Parade at least,” said Sweety, who wants to be a doctor.

Abheri Banerjee of the Modern High School for Girls is also counting days. “I look forward to this competition all through the year,” said the Class VIII student, who also discovered her talent for creative writing at this inter-school meet.

“I participated in Creative Writing English (junior) for the first time two years ago and came second. Last year, I came first in the same category and am preparing myself for a rerun this year. I will be there on all four days.”

At Gokhale Memorial, last year’s Champion of Champions School, Class IX students are prepping for the grand event.

“Our star performer Yubasana (Kapas), last year’s Champion of Champions student, won’t be participating this year because of exams. That has got the other girls a little worried,” principal Indrani Mitra said. “We have been participating in this event for several years now and have a standard to live up to. This event is a huge exposure for them. It has taught my girls how to balance studies and hobbies and learn how to multi-task.”

Two-time Champion of Champions student Yubasana has been continuously sharing tips with her juniors. “I know the structure of this competition very well, so I am helping the girls. I am sad to miss out on all the fun this time but the lessons I learnt at TTIS Challenge will stay with me forever. It taught me to communicate better and appreciate teamwork. I have realised the value of practice and hard work, too,” said the Class X student.

Students at Asian International School, Howrah, are banking on their spontaneity and inherent talent to outshine others at City Centre, Salt Lake.

“No two children are alike. At TTIS Challenge, there is something to suit every personality and interest,” said principal Vijaylaxmi Kumar.

Bidisha Mitra Sarkar, the group director of the Subhas Bose Institute of Hotel Management, declared herself a fan of TTIS Challenge. “This event is a wonderful way of bringing out the creative side of students and making them think in a different way,” she said.