I was born and raised in Amritsar, India, often referred to as the “Holy City” for its spiritual and cultural significance as the home of the Golden Temple. After completing my schooling, I earned a Master of Economics followed by a Master of Education from Guru Nanak Dev University. I am currently an educator and researcher with a strong interest in advancing adolescent wellbeing, inclusive schooling, and evidence-informed teaching practice. My work bridges psychological science and classroom practice, with a particular focus on the emotional, relational, and social factors that support young people to thrive in learning environments.
 
I completed my PhD at the University of South Australia in 2021, supported by the University President’s Scholarship. My doctoral research investigated the interplay between role stress, existential stress, and emotional intelligence in adolescents using a mixed-methods design. Guided by an ecological systems perspective, this work examined how internal emotional capacities and social-school dynamics intersect to shape wellbeing, resilience, motivation, and engagement in education. The findings continue to inform both my research agenda and my teaching practice.
 
Since completing my PhD, I have developed a program of research focused on adolescent wellbeing, teacher emotional competence, and intercultural and inclusive pedagogies. I have published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at international conferences, and delivered a keynote at the 8th World Summit on Mental Health (2021). I am also contributing as an advisory group member to an MRFF-funded research project that is co-designing school-based supports for adolescents living with chronic pain. This work involves collaboration with multidisciplinary clinicians, researchers, young people, and educators to strengthen care pathways, participation, and wellbeing in educational settings.
 
My research and teaching are grounded in a strong commitment to adolescent wellbeing, inclusive pedagogy, and sustainable school systems. For me, education is both a passion and a privilege - an opportunity to support young people in their learning, nurture their wellbeing, and work collaboratively with colleagues to improve outcomes for all learners.