“I’ve always believed that stories carry power, and today I’m sharing mine! I am Aarthy Jonathan Kennedy, Academician, PhD Scholar (Law) – Mental health advocate by passion! I was just 2 years old when my parents parted ways. Before I could grasp that truth, I was battling a life-altering ailment. What followed were seven years of seizures, photophobia, phonophobia, and endless hospital visits. While most children recall playgrounds, I remember medications and pain.

I was the “Kuchi,” the “Karupi,” the “Pencil” bullied because of my looks. A teacher once called me “jadam” meaning “useless/dead”. That word branded my soul, but also sparked a fire. Until Class 5, I could barely read or speak properly. But art saved me. That very year, I chose creativity over conformity and on Annual Day, I stood tall, winning 12 prizes from the same teacher who once broke me.

Later I moved to a different school, that shaped me and during my highschool I became the Cultural Captain. I sang, I danced, I trekked, I wrote books. I could do everything which doctors said I won’t be able to do.

My biological father never took responsibility while my mother hustled hard to take care of me. With 94% in highschool, I earned a merit seat with a scholarship in law school as a first-generation lawyer. The journey was anything but easy; law felt like Greek, life felt like war. But I endured. I fell, I failed, I rose. Law school gave me scars but also strength and dreams.

I chose to be the teacher I never had. For 3 years, I taught law, nurturing minds with empathy. I pursued an MSc in Psychology, and today, as a PhD Scholar, I channel both disciplines through “The Legal Psychologist” on Instagram; turning my pain into purpose, helping people navigate life.

I believe no one should be ashamed of their roots. Childhood trauma doesn’t define us but healing does. This world needs more inclusion, people deserve dignity and peace.

To anyone walking through fire I see you. Your story matters.
We may come from brokenness, but we are not broken.
We have nothing to lose, and everything to live for.”