Chandigarh, Oct. 9 -- My Ikigai is the overall grooming of my students' personality. For Jyotsna, TGT social science at GMSSS-20D, teaching is about much more than academics. It is about identifying potential, building confidence and giving every child an opportunity to excel. A two-time national gold medallist in Judo herself, Jyotsna sees the sport not merely as a game but as a way of life,one that teaches discipline, resilience, courage and the attitude to embrace challenges. Since 2023, she has been building the school's Judo team almost from scratch. Her talent scouting goes beyond conventional achievers; she particularly reaches out to students who may be struggling in academics or discipline, giving them a positive avenue to channel their energy and discover their strengths. Her own beginning was far from easy. "There had been a time when I started with nothing. I played with the judogi I had of my own and borrowed a few," she recalls. But determination attracted support. Jatinder, DPE, GMHS-19, donated four judogis last year, each costing around Rs.2,500. Principal Baljit Kaur's continuous encouragement has helped her sustain the initiative, while Vivek Thakur, judo coach, played an important role in training the students and helping arrange shoes, kits and other sporting requirements. What started with limited resources has now produced remarkable results. This year, GMSSS-20D won the Judo Championship in U-17 Girls, U-19 Girls and U-19 Boys. Winning a total of 23 medals this year our of which there are 5 gold medals 5 silver medals and 13 bronze medals. For Jyotsna, however, the medals represent only one part of the achievement. "I am what I am because of sports. I have always picked tough tasks and tried to take challenges. Sports have given me an attitude that helps me remain a student for a lifetime." That same philosophy extends beyond the judo mat. She prepares students for public speaking and national-level opportunities, including platforms such as Pariksha Pe Charcha. She also creates learning content to make concepts in English and social science simpler and more accessible. Her understanding of students is deeply personal. An alumnus of GMSSSS-21, she has experienced the government-school system herself and understands the gaps that can sometimes limit opportunities. Today, she works to bridge those gaps for the next generation,through sports, academics, communication and creative learning. Her greatest strength is perhaps her ability to spot talent where others see difficulty. Jyotsna draws inspiration from the administrator's constant appeal to teachers to give their best. "Inspired by him, this is my little contribution to society." And that contribution has grown from one teacher's determination into a collective journey of students, colleagues, coaches and school leadership. As she beautifully puts it: "Main akela hi chala tha, aur karwan banta gaya." From borrowed judogis to championship victories, Jyotsna's journey is a testament to what commitment, care and perseverance can achieve....