About me: My Journey from Immigrant to Innovator

As an immigrant woman who arrived in the U.S. in 2018, I know firsthand the power of resilience and self-empowerment. Entering this country with no support network, I took on the challenge of creating my own path in a world that often underestimates the strength of women and minorities. My journey has been a testament to the perseverance of those who are marginalized but refuse to be silenced.

The first step was learning English—something I did independently, knowing that mastering a new language was essential to my success. Shortly after, I earned my Master’s degree in Ethnomusicology and Social Anthropology from Kent State University, Ohio, and was honored to be nominated as the best international student in 2019. My achievements culminated in receiving an admission letter for my PhD from Indiana University Bloomington, home to one of the nation’s top programs in Ethnomusicology and Applied Anthropology.

I proudly stand on the intersection of academia and activism, with my academic skills deeply rooted in both quantitative and qualitative research. My bachelor’s degree in Statistics provides me with a robust foundation in data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking—tools that I have leveraged to challenge societal norms and empower marginalized voices. In my PhD research, I apply ethnographic methodologies to uncover hidden narratives, designing effective questionnaires and interviews to explore the lived experiences of diverse communities.

But my story is not just about academic achievements; it is also about life skills that are rarely taught but are essential for survival as a woman, an immigrant, and a minority in this world. My journey has fortified my resilience, resourcefulness, and fierce self-determination—qualities that all women possess but are often undervalued. I have navigated a new culture, often in spaces that were not designed for me, and I’ve emerged stronger, more adaptable, and deeply empathetic to those who, like me, have had to carve out a space for themselves.

I am also a professional piano player, a skill that deepens my creativity and connects me to an expressive world beyond academia. For me, playing the piano is a form of resistance—an act of reclaiming space and voice in a society that tries to confine who I am. This powerful blend of academic excellence and artistic creativity has fueled my innovation, culminating in the creation of Mithrarya, a platform that seeks to uplift and connect individuals through shared experiences.

The Inspiration Behind Mithrarya

During my immigration journey, I faced the harsh realities of being alone in a new country, navigating not just the language barrier but also the emotional challenges of isolation. As an immigrant woman, I found solace in peer group sessions held at local churches in Kent, Ohio, where individuals gathered to share their struggles, experiences, and triumphs. These sessions were a lifeline—one of the few places where I could openly express myself, feeling heard and validated. However, even while benefiting from these groups, I couldn’t ignore a deeper realization: What about those who don’t have access to these spaces? What about people who, for various reasons, can’t attend or struggle to participate?

For many, attending these in-person meetings isn't just a matter of willingness; it’s about feasibility. What happens to those who have physical disabilities that make leaving home difficult or impossible? For them, the idea of showing up at a meeting may not be an option at all. What about those with mental health challenges or social anxiety, who fear being judged or misunderstood in public settings? These individuals deserve support and connection, but traditional group meetings often present obstacles that are hard to overcome.

Furthermore, these church-based in-person peer groups aren’t always accessible when people need them the most. Sessions might only happen once a week, during specific hours, requiring a commitment of time to travel and meet others. For people juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, this can be yet another barrier to receiving the help they need. This was a constant frustration for me: I often felt that the timing or location didn’t align with when I truly needed support.

These questions led me to realize the deep need for a space that could provide the same support and empathy, but without the limitations of geography or the fear of judgment. I saw a gap—a global need for a platform where people could connect through shared experiences, without the pressure of being seen or known. What if people could open up anonymously, free from societal expectations and without the fear of exposing their identities? What if we could create a space where vulnerability became a strength rather than a source of shame?

That’s where Mithrarya comes in. With Mithrarya, the support system isn’t bound by physical or time-based limitations. It’s always accessible, for everyone, no matter where they are or what time it is. In less than a minute, anyone can log in and find a person or a group who understands what they’re going through, anonymously and without fear of judgment. There’s no need to wait for the next scheduled meeting or to overcome physical or emotional hurdles to show up in person. Mithrarya is there when traditional systems fall short, offering instant, real-time connection to people who share similar experiences and challenges.

This platform is designed with inclusivity at its core, ensuring that those who may struggle to participate in physical spaces, such as individuals with disabilities or those with demanding schedules, are never excluded. By removing the barriers of location, time, and fear of exposure, Mithrarya provides an immediate and accessible space where support is always available.

The Creation of Mithrarya

The questions I faced during my immigration journey—what about those who don’t have access to peer support?—became the driving force behind the creation of Mithrarya. As a woman who has personally encountered challenges and inequalities in society, I am deeply aware of how difficult it can be for people, especially minorities, to find a space where they are understood and supported without bias. However, I wanted Mithrarya to be a platform for everyone—a virtual space that allows all people, regardless of background, to connect based on shared experiences. Mithrarya was designed to break down the barriers of geography, social discomfort, and fear of judgment, while providing an equal place for everyone, especially those who often face additional obstacles.

Mithrarya is a global platform, allowing individuals to connect through their common challenges, with the key element of anonymity. I recognized that many people, especially those who have been marginalized or face societal pressure, may fear being judged or misunderstood. Anonymity enables people to open up without worrying about exposing their identity or personal details. This encourages honesty and vulnerability, creating more meaningful connections among users.

By offering an anonymous and safe environment, Mithrarya helps people connect freely, without fear of judgment. Users can openly share their struggles and challenges without worrying about who might see or know them. Whether someone is navigating mental health challenges, trauma, or social isolation, they can find the support they need on Mithrarya.

Mithrarya fills a global need, providing a space for people who may not have access to traditional peer support groups. Many individuals, whether due to geographical constraints, disabilities, or social fears, cannot attend in-person meetings. For minorities, such barriers can be even more pronounced. Mithrarya offers an alternative—an online, flexible, always-accessible platform where users can feel safe, supported, and empowered to share their experiences.