Simmy Storyteller, a passionate educator and performer from India, is not just a storyteller by profession but a woman shaped by resilience, courage and a fierce belief in self-expression. Her journey is a testament to the power of reinvention, especially when life seems to offer no clear direction.
Born and raised in an environment where a woman’s worth was often tied to marriage rather than personal achievement, Simmy’s early years were marked by societal norms that discouraged ambition. Education and career were never discussed and marriage was seen as the ultimate goal, a “career” in itself. Despite these limitations, the seeds of creativity were always within her. As a school girl, she found joy in arts, music and stage performances, often standing out for her honesty and spirit.
Married at the age of 19 under family pressure, Simmy’s life took a difficult turn when the marriage ended a few years later. Left without a degree or direction, she had to start from scratch. Yet, what could have broken her became the foundation of her transformation. She pursued her education in BSc Psychology, earned certifications in counselling, Montessori teaching and eventually, storytelling.
Her professional journey began in schools, where she worked as a teacher. But after facing an unfair removal due to internal politics, she decided to never work under anyone again. That pivotal moment pushed her to create something of her own. She began by telling stories to children in her community. Encouraged by the response and the impact she was making, Simmy created her own program to teach storytelling and public speaking to children, a program born out of genuine requests from parents and rooted in her real-life struggles.
Though a gifted orator and stage performer, Simmy faced major challenges adapting to the digital world. Social media, marketing and virtual tools were alien to her. Yet, the post-COVID era demanded digital adaptation and Simmy learned, step by step, because her mission, to empower children through voice and expression, mattered more than her comfort zone.
Simmy credits her progress to a supportive circle of friends, coaches and kind strangers who helped her along the way. From video editing to encouragement, every bit of support became a building block in her journey. Her inspiration, however, comes not from external idols but from her own pain. She likens herself to a lotus, blossoming beautifully from the murky waters of hardship.
Today, Simmy Storyteller is more than an educator, she’s a mentor, guide and changemaker. Through storytelling, she helps children build confidence, overcome stage fear and believe in themselves. Her message to the youth is powerful: education is beyond books; it’s in experience, self-respect and the courage to write one’s own story.
In her own words, “Your strength will not come from outside approval, it will come from within.” Simmy’s story is still unfolding, but one thing is certain, it’s a story worth telling.