On a day meant to celebrate the strength and spirit of women, Shillong witnessed a gathering that felt less like a formal ceremony and more like a glimpse into the future. At the State Convention Centre, the Meghalaya State Commission for Women hosted a special felicitation programme on International Women’s Day 2026, honouring eleven remarkable young achievers whose journeys are quietly redefining what is possible for the next generation in the state.
What made the occasion particularly inspiring was the diversity of the stories being celebrated. From space science and aviation to motorsports, endurance athletics, literature and music, these young individuals have carved their own paths through determination, discipline and passion. Their achievements reflect a generation that is increasingly fearless in pursuing ambitions once thought distant or unreachable.
Among the youngest of the honourees was two-year-old Jude Maynard Khyriem, whose remarkable curiosity has already earned him a place in the record books. At an age when most children are just learning to form sentences, Jude stunned audiences by answering 76 complex questions about the solar system and space in less than fifteen minutes, demonstrating an extraordinary early fascination with science and the universe.
Equally impressive was nine-year-old Cyra, whose imagination has already found its way into print. A budding author, she has published two books, with her most recent work focusing on empathy and inclusion. Through a touching story centred on a child with Down Syndrome, she hopes to encourage young readers to understand kindness and acceptance from an early age.
Music too found its moment on the stage through Shelevah N. Jyrwa, an 11-year-old singer from Upper Shillong whose journey began when she discovered her love for music at the age of three. Her powerful voice recently captured the attention of audiences across the state when she won the prestigious singing competition “Sur Kynud” Season 4.
In the world of sports, several young achievers stood out for their grit and courage. Twelve-year-old taekwondo athlete Alia Deisaka Lyngdoh has already competed on an international stage. Travelling alone to Bangladesh in 2023, she secured two gold medals, proving her resilience and determination. Beyond martial arts, she is also an accomplished swimmer and football player, balancing multiple sporting disciplines with remarkable energy.
Another inspiring journey is that of 23-year-old Minerva Wahlang, who earned her Commercial Pilot License in 2024. In a profession still largely dominated by men, her achievement represents both courage and perseverance. For many young girls in Meghalaya, her story sends a simple but powerful message: the sky is not a limit but a starting point.
Fitness champion Sawakani Lakiang has carved a space for herself in the demanding world of competitive bodybuilding. Competing across the country, she has won several accolades, including a Gold Medal at the World Fitness Federation Championship in Mumbai, emerging as a pioneering figure in strength sports.
Adventure and endurance were also represented by 21-year-old Refiness Warjri, whose determination took her to the highest point on earth. On May 18, 2025, she successfully summited Mount Everest, an achievement that crowned years of training and discipline. Her journey is further strengthened by an impressive record in martial arts at both regional and national levels.
Endurance runner Dakahi Kyndiat, a police officer by profession, has also pushed the boundaries of physical and mental resilience. In 2025 she completed two major ultra-marathons, and most recently secured third place in the demanding Frozen Lake Marathon in Leh Ladakh in 2026, one of the toughest high-altitude races in the country.
Motorsports found its champion in Phoebe Dale Nongrum, popularly known as the “Thunder Girl.” As a professional rally driver competing in the Indian National Rally Championship, she has already broken new ground. Her achievement as the first person from the Northeast to secure a podium finish in Formula racing marks an important milestone for the region in Indian motorsports.
Leadership in team sports was represented by Monica Lyngdoh Phawa, who made an unusual transition from football to cricket and quickly rose through the ranks to become the captain of the Meghalaya Under-23 Women’s Cricket Team. Known for her sharp tactical instincts, she has earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
Completing the list of honourees was Sanfida Nongrum, a talented midfielder who plays for Karowa United as well as the Indian Women’s National Team. In the Karnataka Women’s League, where she is known as Laitkyrhai Iawphniaw, she finished as the top scorer and Best Player with an impressive tally of fifteen goals.
The celebration was organised by the Meghalaya State Commission for Women under the theme “Give to Gain,” a message that resonated throughout the event. The ceremony was attended by Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA, who served as the Chief Guest, along with Camelia Doreen Lyngwa, Director of Social Welfare, and Phidalia Toi, Chairperson of the Commission.
In their remarks, the speakers emphasised the importance of nurturing ambition while maintaining balance in life. They spoke about the idea of “the balance of wings”—encouraging young people to pursue big dreams while also caring for their mental, physical and spiritual well-being.
Lyngdoh highlighted the state government’s introduction of a Gender Budget in Meghalaya, an initiative aimed at ensuring that resources are directed towards programmes that support the safety, empowerment and advancement of women across communities.
The other speakers, Toi and Lyngwa reminded the audience that while celebrating individual achievements is important, lasting progress comes when success is rooted in community, responsibility and mentorship. They stressed the need to guide young people as they navigate challenges related to relationships, mental health and the pressures of a rapidly changing world.
As the ceremony came to a close, the eleven young achievers stood together on stage, representing more than their personal milestones. They symbolised the promise of a new generation in Meghalaya—one driven by courage, creativity and compassion. In their journeys, many in the audience saw not just success stories, but the seeds of a future where every young dream has the chance to grow.
