“Your dreams will find their way when your courage refuses to give up.”
Introduction
Every meaningful journey begins with a desire to create something beyond oneself. For Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary, that desire has always been connected with learning, caring for others, and building a path guided by purpose. Her life reflects the story of a woman who continued to evolve with every experience, moving from education and service to entrepreneurship and professional excellence while carrying the values that shaped her from the beginning.
From a young age, she carried a desire to make a difference. While her interests extended beyond conventional academics, her involvement in extracurricular activities reflected her creativity, confidence, and willingness to explore new experiences. She followed her instinct to serve, stepping into special education with a deep commitment to children who needed someone to believe in them. That chapter taught her what patience truly means, what compassion asks of us, and how transformation often begins in the quietest moments.
A quiet curiosity led her down an unexpected path, and what started as a simple interest slowly became the work she was meant to do. Choosing a field that was often undervalued at the time, Dr. Santhykrishna followed her conviction and invested herself in learning the science behind beauty and aesthetics. Her dedication led her to develop expertise in advanced aesthetic practices and eventually establish her own brand, SAN’S, in Kochi.
Through SAN’S, she built something greater than a practice, a platform where service met education and empowerment. Recognising the need for stronger theoretical understanding within the beauty industry, she established SAN’S Academy to help aspiring professionals gain knowledge, confidence, and practical skills. Her journey reflects the transformation of a practitioner into an entrepreneur, educator, and mentor.
Her professional path later expanded beyond India as she moved to the United Kingdom, where she continued strengthening her expertise in aesthetics and education. Working as a Skin Clinic Manager, Senior Aesthetician, and tutor, she continued the same mission she had carried forward throughout her career: helping people feel confident while sharing knowledge with those entering the profession.
This biography traces the path of Dr. Santhykrishna, a woman who met change with open arms, shaped obstacles into opportunities, and continues to leave a mark through knowledge, care, and vision.
"Courage is the quiet decision to keep moving when everything says stop."
Phase 1: A Childhood Shaped by Tradition, Love, and Courage
Every person carries within them the influence of the place where they begin, the people who raise them, and the experiences that quietly shape their understanding of life. For Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary, the earliest chapters of her journey were deeply connected to her family, her cultural surroundings, and the values she absorbed while growing up in Kerala. Long before she became an educator, entrepreneur, and aesthetic professional, she was a daughter who observed, questioned, learned, and developed the courage to create her own path.
She was born into a traditional and culturally rooted family in Kerala, where customs and values held an important place in everyday life. The environment around her was shaped by strong traditions, and she grew up understanding the expectations that came with belonging to such a community. However, even within those traditional surroundings, she developed a personality that was naturally curious and independent. She was someone who looked at the world differently, questioned things that did not feel right, and carried an inner desire to understand life beyond the boundaries placed before her.
The strongest influence during her early years was her father, Unnikrishnan. A businessman by profession, he showed her through his own journey what it meant to work hard, take risks, and keep moving forward despite the uncertainty. When she was young, she saw the sacrifices he made to create a better future for the family. Before her birth, he moved to Dubai for work, leaving behind his home and loved ones in search of better opportunities. At a time when communication was limited and families depended mainly on letters to stay connected, the distance was emotionally difficult. She remembers that period as one filled with longing, especially because she deeply missed her father’s presence. Even with her formative years carrying connections to both Dubai and India, her sense of belonging remained deeply rooted in Kerala.
Alongside him was her mother, Rajeswary, a homemaker whose care and steady presence brought warmth and balance to the family. The sacrifices made by both her parents reflected their commitment towards building a stable and secure life for their children. Their journey was not without challenges, but their determination and love remained constant. Watching their efforts gave Dr. Santhykrishna an early understanding of commitment, responsibility, and the importance of standing strong during difficult situations.
After spending time working abroad, her father returned to India after becoming financially stronger. One of the most emotional memories from her childhood was when she asked him not to leave again because she had missed him deeply. That simple request reflected the bond they shared. Instead of continuing away from his family, he chose to stay and begin a new chapter by building businesses in India.
"Teaching is not about filling empty minds, but recognising the light already shining within."
Phase 2 : The Making of a Compassionate Educator
Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary never saw education as something confined to textbooks or exams. To her, learning was alive—it lived in conversations, in empathy, in the courage to create, and in the small moments when one person helps another grow. Her path was not defined by academic scores, but by a restless curiosity and a heart that always leaned toward people. Those qualities eventually led her to work that felt less like a job and more like coming home.
Her schooling journey began at Little Flower School, Kochi, where she spent her early years of education. After completing her studies there until approximately the seventh standard, she continued her education through different institutions, including SN Trust, Cherthala, and TD School, where she completed her higher secondary education. Moving through different educational environments helped her adapt to new surroundings and experiences. Each place contributed something different to her understanding of people and learning.
When she looked back at her student years, Dr. Santhykrishna did not describe herself as someone who stood out academically. She openly acknowledged that academics were not her strongest area compared to her elder brother, Shyam, who was recognised for his academic abilities. However, she never allowed comparisons to define her confidence. She always believed that every individual carries a different ability, and success cannot be measured through academics alone.
Her true strengths appeared in areas beyond textbooks. She was deeply involved in extracurricular activities and found happiness in expressing herself creatively. Singing, classical dance, sports, and cultural activities became important parts of her childhood and school life. She collected numerous certificates through her participation and achievements, proving that her talents existed in many different forms.
These experiences shaped one of the strongest beliefs that continued throughout her life: every person deserves to be recognised for who they are. She often questioned why children were compared based only on academic performance when each child had different talents and potential. This belief later became closely connected with her decision to work with children who required a different approach to learning and support.
From an early age, Dr. Santhykrishna carried a desire to become a teacher. She wanted to choose a profession where she could contribute something meaningful rather than simply follow a conventional path. However, instead of becoming a regular teacher, she felt drawn towards a field where she could support children who needed greater understanding and patience.
"Relationships do not dissolve when paths diverge; respect and lessons continue to shape us."
Phase 3 : Personal Challenges, Relationships, and Inner Transformation
Life often presents moments that test a person’s strength in ways that cannot be measured by achievements or professional success. For Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary, one of the most defining chapters of her life came through personal experiences that shaped her understanding of love, responsibility, resilience, and acceptance. These moments brought challenges that were difficult to navigate, yet they also revealed the depth of her compassion and the strength she carried within herself.
Before beginning a new chapter in her professional life, she experienced a deeply meaningful relationship that began long before marriage. Anil Kumar, a sales tax consultant, had been part of her life long before he became her life partner. Their bond began as a childhood friendship, continued through their school and higher secondary years, and gradually grew into a relationship built on understanding and affection.
Their journey together changed when he faced a serious health challenge at a young age. After suffering from chikungunya, he experienced difficulties with walking, and further medical evaluation revealed that he had muscular dystrophy. The diagnosis brought uncertainty and emotional challenges because the condition affected his mobility and came with limitations that would continue throughout life.
For many, such circumstances could have changed the way they viewed the future, but Dr. Santhykrishna chose to stand beside him. She saw the person beyond the condition and recognised the kindness and character that defined him. She often expressed that he was one of the nicest human beings she had ever known. Their relationship was built on respect, care, and the belief that challenges did not determine a person’s worth.
Choosing to continue their journey together was not always easy. She faced disagreements and concerns from her family, but she remained committed to her decision. Her choice reflected her belief that life should be guided by understanding and compassion rather than fear of difficulties.
A significant chapter in their lives was their decision to become parents. The journey towards parenthood involved difficult considerations because doctors expressed concerns about possible hereditary factors related to his condition. However, Dr. Santhykrishna approached the situation with courage. She believed that every child could be guided towards independence with the right support and care.
Note of Thanks
A journey becomes meaningful not only because of the milestones achieved, but because of the people who walk alongside it. As Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary reflects on her path, she carries deep gratitude for everyone whose encouragement, guidance, friendship, and belief have contributed to the person and professional she has become.
She holds a special place in her heart for her family, whose love and support remained a steady source of strength throughout her life. The values she received from her parents, particularly the courage and determination inspired by her father, helped shape the way she approached challenges and opportunities. She is equally grateful to her cousin Arjun, whose consistent support has remained meaningful throughout her journey.
Her early professional years also carry lasting gratitude. She remains thankful to Dr. C. V. Vadavan and Sathyanikethan Special School, where her work in special education gave her valuable professional exposure and strengthened the empathy, patience, and sense of responsibility that continued to influence her later career.
She is grateful to those who recognised her potential and encouraged her during important stages of growth. Niven Philip supported her vision and strengthened her confidence as she developed as an entrepreneur and educator. She also values the continued encouragement of Dr. Shibu Mohammed and the friendship of her best friend, Shaly, whose emotional support has remained meaningful through different stages of her life. Her dear friend Sumi holds an equally special place, bringing steady motivation, strength, and positivity through life’s many ups and downs and helping Dr. Santhykrishna stay grounded, focused, and determined.
Her personal journey has also been enriched by a close circle that included Anoop Divakar, Robin Gopalakrishnan, Justin, Aruldas, Arunkumar, and Ashwin. The experiences shared within this circle brought lessons that contributed to her maturity, resilience, and understanding of life. She is equally thankful for her friends in Kochi, including Jose Francis, Jithin Kumar, Amrutha V. A., Ankitha Sargam, Junaid Rahman, Kiran Raj, Akshy Sasikumar, Ierfad R, Subhana Abdul Salam, Muhammed Anaz, Shehansha Rasheed, Asif, and Anulakshmi, whose encouragement and genuine happiness in seeing her progress have remained deeply appreciated.
She extends her deepest gratitude to Dr. Santhosh, an esteemed physician, and his wife, Dr. Sandhya, a gynecologist, for their unwavering guidance and encouragement throughout her journey. Her meaningful association with Dr. Santhosh began when she had the privilege of teaching his daughter, a wonderful child with autism. From that connection grew a lasting bond of trust and mentorship, with his continued belief in her potential and support through her professional growth and transition to the United Kingdom. Their trust and mentorship have played a significant role in her achievements.
Her journey in the United Kingdom brought another circle of people for whom she carries immense gratitude. Sarah, Will, fondly known as Coffie, and Adam Thompson welcomed her with warmth and gave her a sense of family in a new environment. Their faith in her abilities and encouragement became an important part of her continuing journey of learning and growth.
She is also thankful to Nyasha, director at 24/7 Support UK Limited, whose belief in her potential encouraged her to pursue further qualifications and strengthen her entrepreneurial ambitions. She fondly acknowledges Jincy, Shamla, and her supportive Malayali co-workers, whose companionship brought familiarity and comfort during her early experiences in the UK.
At Lumi Skin Clinic in Kettering, she remains grateful to clinic owners Emily Louise and Sam, and to Dr. Priyanka, Molly, Mireille, Ola, Nidhi, Naya, Dana, Afiya, and Mariyam, who have been part of her continuing professional journey. She also holds special appreciation for Beena and Anisha, clients who became dear friends and brought warmth and a comforting sense of home into her life abroad.
Her gratitude extends to the clients, students, colleagues, and professionals who became part of her journey through SAN’S, aesthetic practice, training, and mentorship. Their trust and appreciation gave deeper meaning to her work and continually reminded her that the most lasting measure of success is found in the relationships built along the way.
As she continues shaping her future vision, Dr. Santhykrishna is also grateful to Arun and Avinash for their valuable collaboration and continued support.
Above all, Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary remains thankful for every relationship that brought encouragement, every experience that offered a lesson, and every opportunity that allowed her to grow. She carries each of these people and experiences forward with gratitude, humility, and a continuing commitment to create meaningful value in the lives and professions she touches.
thanks,
– Dr. Santhykrishna Perumkarukayil Rajeswary