CARRYING THE LIGHT: A MISSION TO SERVE MENTAL WELLNESS

I hail from Bangalore. I lost my father at the tender age of two, leaving my mother to single-handedly care for me and my elder brother.

My mother instilled in us the values of service and compassion, encouraging us to participate in community service initiatives from an early age.

Inspired by my elder brother, who was already studying at the institution, I joined the Jayapura campus in 2013 for my primary education. Shortly after, my mother was blessed with the opportunity to serve here as a teacher, marking a life-changing chapter for our family.

The institution not only nurtured my academic growth but also encouraged my passions. I explored music, learning instruments such as the harmonium, guitar, and tabla, while excelling in table tennis, which taught me discipline and teamwork.

Growing up amidst challenges, I witnessed the emotional struggles caused by life’s uncertainties. My mother’s resilience and the institution’s unwavering support taught me the importance of mental strength.

These experiences inspired me to join the inaugural batch of the Bachelor's course in the Mental Health Programme at our university.

I am committed to addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in underserved communities, and providing mental health support where it is most needed.

This institution has been instrumental in shaping me into a confident and compassionate individual. The education I have received has inspired me to dedicate my life to empowering rural young girls who may not have the same privileges as others.

The Bachelor's in Mental Health Programme offers students comprehensive knowledge of the expanding field of mental health, with a particular focus on cultural contexts and human well-being.