What if every missed chance was actually preparing you for something greater?In a soul-stirring and empowering speech, Isra Anwer Karim — a Grade 10 student, Head Girl of Peace Public School Kottakkal, and a proud Gavelier — bares her journey with honesty, humour, and heart.She tells the story of a girl who always seemed to miss her big moments — whether it was because of illness, accidents, or even unexpected weddings. A girl who watched from the sidelines while others shone. But that same girl discovered her voice in the margins of her notebook, where poetry quietly bloomed.With vivid storytelling and quiet strength, Isra takes us on a journey not of constant wins, but of persistence. Of how failure dimmed her spark, but never extinguished it. Of how one teacher’s belief and a friend’s nickname became anchors in a storm. And how standing on a stage, after years of disappointments, wasn’t a matter of luck — but of refusing to give up.This is not a victory speech. It’s a testimony to falling, breaking, healing, and rising again. It’s for the invisible children who are slowly stepping into the light. For the girls with broken mics who still dream of world stages. It’s about finding purpose not in spite of pain — but through it.Isra’s speech is a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt left behind. And a reminder that maybe, just maybe… the delay isn’t denial. It’s divine timing.Because in the end, we weren’t made to be anyone else’s first choice. We were meant to be our own.A dedicated 10th-grade student with twelve years at her school, Isra has transformed from a shy kindergartener into a confident storyteller through poetry, film, and writing. Her achievements include winning 3rd prize in State-Level PPT Presentatio, 3rd place in District-Level Slam Poetry, and 3rd prize at the Global Digital Fest for a short film. NCERT selected her poem for their national magazine, a testament to her literary talent. At school, she served as Head of Social Service, Deputy Student Editor, and earned the title ‘Kala Prathibha for her artistic dedication. As a Gavelier, she honed her leadership and communication skills under the Toastmasters model. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Malayalam, and conversational in Urdu, Arabic, and Japanese, Isra thrives on creativity—whether through reading, journaling, or videography—using these passions to make sense of the world around her. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx