Good mental health is life-changing, especially for students. And I know this firsthand.   The first time I sat across from my counsellor, I had no idea how much that encounter would shape my life. She didn’t just help me through a difficult time, she changed how I understood myself and my place in the world. Her quiet compassion, her ability to listen without judgement, and her skill in guiding me through my struggles gave me something I hadn’t known I needed: clarity. Inspired by this experience, I trained to become a counsellor myself, to support not only the emotional well-being of students but also their holistic development. Since then, I have gained experience working with students at different stages of life. I have used creative therapies to help school students process emotions too big for words. I have supported adolescents through the turbulence of self-doubt, anxiety, and loss. And I have worked with university students trying to find their place in the world. Every conversation, every breakthrough, and every moment of recognition in a student’s eyes has reinforced my belief- counselling isn’t just about feeling heard, it’s about lighting a path forward. But counselling isn’t just what I do; it’s who I am. As a hand-built pottery artist, I understand the patience and care required to shape raw clay into something meaningful. The same philosophy applies to my work as a counsellor- helping students reshape their narratives, transform self-doubt into self-compassion, and see themselves as capable, whole, and worthy. I remember one student telling me, “I get attached too quickly.” Together, we reframed that into, “When I care about something, I give it my all.” That shift in her perspective wasn’t just a moment; it was a turning point in her journey towards growth and self-confidence. Beyond my work in counselling, I have always been drawn to fostering connection and inclusion. My early work in special needs education shaped how I build relationships and create safe spaces for students. Volunteering at Lavoy Exceptional Centre (USA) and Smileys (India) gave me an unshakable understanding of advocacy and the power of belonging. One of my most treasured experiences was co-organising Tandav, India’s largest inclusive dance festival for children with disabilities. Coordinating a space where 300+ children could express themselves freely, where they were not defined by their limitations but celebrated for their spirit, cemented my belief that true growth happens when people feel seen, valued, and included. Having lived and worked across three continents, I have experienced firsthand how culture shapes the way we think, connect, and seek support. Serving as International Officer at my university, I worked to create spaces where students from every background felt like they belonged. International schools embody this same principle- bringing together students with diverse perspectives, challenges, and strengths. Having navigated transitions myself, I understand what it feels like to adapt to a new environment, redefine identity, and find belonging in unfamiliar places. I want to be the counsellor who makes that transition easier, who helps students embrace their individuality while feeling rooted in a supportive community. Every student’s journey is unique, and I am committed to walking alongside them, helping them uncover their strengths as they navigate their own experiences.