About the Author

Kaaviyaa Sriskandan is 12 years old, a bright, courageous young girl with a heart full of dreams. Her hobbies include singing, drawing, and swimming. When she’s not busy with schoolwork or practicing her hobbies, you’ll find her happily exploring new foods—her favorites being biryani and noodles. She believes in facing challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, and she hopes her story will inspire others to keep going, no matter what obstacles come thei

 way.

My story began on August 9, 2011, in the busy city of Chennai India.  I was born as a preterm baby at just 32 weeks, my life was an uncertain one. I faced many complications, but with the love and determination of my parents, I grew stronger every day and left the NI CU as a beautiful, thriving baby.

At 9 months old, my family moved to Jaffna, where I grew up surrounded by the warmth of my extended family and the richness of Sri Lankan culture. Despite the early challenges my joy and curiosity for life were unwavering.

When I was 2 years old, my parents noticed that I struggled with my speech. Though it was challenging, I went through numerous therapies, and over time, I learned to communicate with confidence.

At the age of 6, I joined Chundikuli Girls' College in grade one. It wasn’t long before my teachers discovered that I faced difficulties with learning.

my parents took me for clinical examinations, and it was confirmed that I had a specific learning disability (SLD). While it was a difficult diagnosis to accept, my parents, teachers, and the principal of my school never wavered in their support. They encouraged me and worked together to create learning strategies that suited my needs.

 I faced many struggles but never gave up. I found joy in singing, drawing, and swimming.

 I worked hard to balance my hobbies with my schoolwork. By the time I was 10 years old, I began private coaching in singing, which boosted my confidence. Despite my  SLD I  took extra classes with special education teachers, making small but significant improvements in my studies.

I realized that my challenges didn't define me; they shaped me into someone who was determined and resilient.  I learned that with the right support and self-belief, anything was possible. The love of my family, friends, and teachers reminded me that I was never alone on my journey.