My Tbsc story — Featuring maiden champions: Ucc (2)

This is the concluding part featuring the maiden champions of My TBSC story.

QM: Your full name

My full name is Shadrack Tawiah Duodu

QM: Tell me about your TBSC journey with UCC

(It) was an exciting experience that exposed me to so much and taught me many enduring lessons. The competition was exciting, the teamwork, the intensity of the different contests and everything about the experience made it a rather memorable one. I am glad I went through this. 

QM: How was the feeling like on winning the maiden-edition trophy in 2019

It was an indescribable feeling after what had been a long journey. After weeks of intense preparation, and close contests, it felt really good to come out with the ultimate prize. Was even more special, knowing we had clinched the prize for the maiden edition! 

QM: What were some of the challenges faced, lessons learnt, and key takeaways from the TBSC platform

Most of the challenges we faced were the result of the perspectives we took on things - ranging from the strength of our competitors, our own belief in our ability to go all the way, the quality of our preparation, and a key element of our success lay in the strength of our support and research team.

The right perspective in these areas gives that extra push one needs to make it across the line. Lessons are wrapped in the experiences from these challenges. I learnt to appreciate the importance of a balanced team - that a strong, united, committed team makes for a very powerful force!

QM: How has the TBSC shaped you afterward (Impact of TBSC, if any)?

It encouraged me to continue exploring new challenges. One key element of my experience was that my team had no context because ours was the maiden edition. That feeling sometimes generate a sense of dread as one knew not what to expect. However, going through the process and coming out with the prize taught me to be comfortable with uncertainties and to learn to take up new challenges.

QM: What advise do you have for schools and students who may want to participate in the TBSC?

I encourage all participants to give it their best and their all. You don't want to come out of the contests, wishing you had done better in your prep, or gone the extra mile.

I'd also add that, while the trophy remains the ultimate goal, contestants should also capitalise on the opportunity to build professional relationships with the wider community and make the most of the experience.

Beyond the prizes and recognitions, I would say a key part of what makes this worthwhile is what this make experiences makes of you - do not lose sight of this. 

QM: Any final comments for Version 6.0 schools

Give it your best, have fun, make connections, and do not be limited by the voices in your head. You're likely better than you realise. Also, avoid team UCC if you can, we're coming for the trophy!