From Butterflies to Fireflies: Celebrating a Life That Inspires

From Butterflies to Fireflies: Celebrating a Life That Inspires
The birthday of our Principal, Ms. Valerie Mascarenhas, on Saturday, 8 August 2026, was celebrated with warmth and joy across every section of St. Dominic Savio High School, making the day a beautiful reflection of the affection and admiration she inspires.
The celebrations began in the Nursery and Pre-Primary Section, where prayers, songs, cards, gifts, chocolates and cake-cutting filled the morning with delight. Ms. Valerie encouraged the little ones to always smile, do the right things and grow beautifully, just like a butterfly.
In the Primary Section, students expressed their love through a birthday song, handmade cards, a lively dance by the boys of Standard II, a special tiara ceremony and cake-cutting. The Secondary Section added its own heartfelt tribute through prayers, students address and a cake-cutting ceremony. Drawing inspiration from her lifelong admiration for butterflies and fireflies, Ms. Valerie reminded the students that every journey has challenges that add colour to our wings. She urged them to be patient, keep God at the centre and, like fireflies, create their own light even in darkness.
The celebrations culminated in a staff gathering with prayer, songs, blessings and words of appreciation and gratitude from the Rector and Manager, Rev. Fr. Francisco Pereira and the staff.
Grateful for a day filled with surprises, Ms. Valerie thanked everyone for celebrating what she holds deeply in her heart—butterflies and fireflies. The day beautifully celebrated not merely a birthday, but a life dedicated to transforming others and inspiring them to shine.