barublogA Moment to Unite: Angad Singh’s Inspiring Graduation Speech
At the UC Berkeley undergraduate commencement, Angad Singh captivated his audience with more than just words. Donning a bright yellow turban, symbolizing the vibrant Cal colors, he began his speech with a powerful performance on the Indian classical tabla. His speech, titled “A Sikh’s Graduation Speech to Unite the World,” was more than a graduation address—it was a rallying cry for unity and global change.
A Heartfelt Connection with the Audience
Angad invited the audience to close their eyes and reflect on one pressing issue they deeply care about. This exercise set the stage for a speech that resonated deeply with personal and global concerns. Instead of relying on a written speech, Singh spoke extemporaneously, drawing from heartfelt conversations with over 70 of his classmates.
Tackling Global Challenges: From Punjab to the World
Angad’s mission is deeply personal. Losing two close friends to drug abuse in Punjab ignited his resolve to combat this issue. His dream is to leverage his success in the U.S. to fight drug addiction back home. He highlighted global challenges, such as climate change, religious discrimination, and war, urging his peers to use their education to make the world a better place.
A Vision for a Borderless World
Singh painted a vivid picture of Shani Shingnapur, an Indian village where houses have no doors, symbolizing trust and harmony. He imagined a world without walls or borders—a world free from discrimination and prejudice.
“What if we could create a world just like that village? A world without barriers, where no one is marginalized because of their faith or identity.”
Turning Education into Action
Singh emphasized that education should extend beyond personal gain. It should empower individuals to solve pressing global issues. He called on the Class of 2017 to make their legacy one of positive impact.
Moving Forward: A Career with Purpose
After graduation, Angad Singh joined JP Morgan as an investment banker, with plans to work in New York and San Francisco. However, his ultimate goal remains rooted in social impact. He aims to improve education and healthcare in rural India and advocate for refugees and victims of civil wars.
Building a Legacy of Doing Good
Singh’s message was clear: the true measure of success lies in the positive change we bring to the world. His speech left a lasting impression, earning him a standing ovation from his peers and their families.
“Our legacy will forever be remembered as the class that not only did good business but engaged in the business of doing good.”
Conclusion
Angad Singh’s graduation speech serves as a powerful reminder of the role education plays in driving societal change. His commitment to addressing global issues, from drug abuse to discrimination, inspires a call to action for a more unified and compassionate world.
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