after making a few API`s using java, after coding in c and cpp for about two years, i moved on to explore the capabilities of various other languages. i took me about 6 months; but it was well worth the time.
I suggest you try out networking projects; maybe a chat client coupled with a file transfer mechanism; or maybe a P2P file sharing project.
i don`t agree with the comment which says "mischief motivated you like none other". it is true that many are interested towards activities like circumventing security systems, but as long as you do not understand the fundamental concepts behind the working of a particular exploit or shellcode; you`ll be wasting your time and will remain a script-kiddie learning little or nothing.
success depends on the number of barriers you have met, but is not entirely based on it.
101 Indians qualifying for GSoC 2009 DOES show "progression", as you put it. Racism is completely out of the context and i see no reason why this page should`nt stay here!!!