“The true essence of education is not in marks but in shaping emotionally strong, confident individuals ready to face life’s challenges.”
This belief has been the driving force behind Mrs. Shivakamy Siva, an award-winning educator, social-emotional learning (SEL) advocate, and transformational leader with over 26 years of experience. A recognized name in education, she has received accolades such as the Igniting Mind Award and a World Record Recognition for a life skills marathon. Yet, her most profound achievement is the impact she has made on the lives of countless children, teachers, and parents.
Today, as a Leader of Change with IME, she champions Better Together Cubed (BT3), ensuring that SEL is not just an afterthought but an integral part of education.
A Life in Three Phases: Learning, Understanding, and Leading Change
Phase 1: Finding Her Purpose in Education
Growing up in Mumbai, Mrs. Shivakamy was drawn to teaching from a young age. Despite facing societal judgments about her appearance, she was determined to prove that true education transcends external perceptions.
“I was often told I didn’t have the ‘right look’ to be a teacher, but I knew my strength lay in my ability to connect with students,” she recalls.
Her perseverance and passion led her to secure a teaching role in a prestigious school, marking the beginning of her journey in shaping young minds. Over the years, she evolved from a teacher to an Academic Director, Founder of Sai Shiksha Teaching & Learning Academy, and Managing Trustee of Hariyaali, developing innovative teaching methodologies along the way.
Phase 2: A Mother’s Struggle and a Life-Changing Realization
This phase of Mrs. Shivakamy’s life was marked by deep personal turmoil, self-doubt, and ultimately, a transformation that reshaped her entire philosophy of education.
As both a teacher and a parent, she encountered a profound challenge with her son, Harish. From an early age, he displayed insatiable curiosity and boundless energy, constantly questioning the world around him. However, the traditional chalk-and-talk teaching method failed to engage him, leaving him restless and unfulfilled.
Despite his intelligence, Harish was mistakenly labeled a “slow learner” by his teachers. This misjudgment caused great distress, especially as she taught in the same school. She grappled with feelings of embarrassment and concern, wondering why her son struggled to adapt to the conventional academic framework that seemed to suit his peers.
“I was frustrated. I pushed him harder, not realizing that I was trying to mold him into a system that wasn’t built for him.”
Determined to find answers, she embarked on a journey of research—not just for Harish, but for all children who faced similar challenges.
What she discovered transformed her perspective on education and reshaped her teaching methods, allowing her to better support Harish and countless other students in need of a different approach to learning.
With newfound understanding and unwavering support, Harish flourished, completing his MBA and becoming a successful team leader in a reputed MNC, fluent in six languages.
“He taught me the most valuable lesson—that education should empower children, not confine them.”
This experience became her mission—to ensure that:
✔ No child suffers due to rigid academic pressures
✔ No parent feels lost in their child’s journey
✔ Education focuses on strengths rather than weaknesse
Phase 3: Leading the SEL Movement in India
Determined to bring emotional well-being into education, Mrs. Shivakamy founded Kushi the Happiness Club, a platform promoting SEL, happiness, and mental wellness for children, parents, and teachers. She launched initiatives like:
- Circle Time: Helping children express their emotions openly.
- Play with Your Child: Encouraging gadget-free quality time between parents and children.
- Teacher Training: Equipping educators with 21st-century teaching methodologies and SEL integration.
Her dedication has earned her multiple national and international recognitions, including:
✔ Igniting Mind Award – Recognizing her pioneering work in education.
✔ World Record Recognition – For a marathon event on life skills training.
✔ Elite World Records & Asian Records Academy – Acknowledging her excellence in leadership and innovation in education.
Joining Hands with IME and Better Together Cubed
Mrs. Shivakamy’s journey with IME and Better Together Cubed (BT3) began when the program was introduced in India. She was deeply inspired upon learning that BT3 had achieved CASEL’s highest recognition—the SELect Certification, a testament to its excellence in social-emotional learning.
“I was immediately drawn to BT3’s structured, systemic approach to SEL. It perfectly aligned with everything I wanted to bring into schools.”
She strongly believes that SEL is not just an ‘add-on’ but the foundation for preparing children to face life’s challenges with resilience, empathy, and confidence.
“Today, children are academically competent but emotionally fragile. SEL is no longer optional—it is the need of the hour.”
Through IME, she is working towards integrating Better Together Cubed into schools across India, ensuring that children grow into emotionally intelligent, socially responsible, and self-aware individuals.
A Message to Educators and Parents
Mrs. Shivakamy’s life is a testament to the power of understanding, transformation, and resilience. Her journey from self-doubt to self-awareness, from frustration to acceptance, and from a conventional educator to a thought leader in SEL is nothing short of inspirational.
To parents, she says:
“Observe your child. Understand them. Trust that they will shine in their own unique way.”
To educators, she urges:
“We are not just teachers; we are the architects of future generations. Let’s teach them not just subjects, but life skills that will shape who they become.”
The Road Ahead
As a Leader of Change with IME, Mrs. Shivakamy continues to advocate for SEL, bringing meaningful change to classrooms, teachers, and families. With her expertise, global recognitions, and unwavering passion, she is set to transform the landscape of Indian education.
Her story is a reminder that education is not just about grades—it’s about building lives, nurturing strengths, and empowering children to become the best versions of themselves.
“When children feel emotionally secure, they don’t just survive—they thrive.”
