We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jasjot Padam a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jasjot, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

Photography has always been a passion of mine, and through it, I’ve learned a lot about how everyone sees the world differently. Like photographers, who each have their own lens through which they capture moments, people bring their unique experiences, emotions, and perceptions to the world around them. This is especially true when you look at how contrasting perspectives shape who we are. A photograph isn’t just a snapshot; it’s an interpretation, a way of making sense of the world in a particular moment. In the same way, we each navigate life through our own lens.

If I could change the education system, I would encourage a deeper embrace of diverse perspectives. Instead of only focusing on standard curricula, schools should create spaces for students to understand and appreciate how different experiences and viewpoints shape how we think and feel. We all come from different backgrounds, cultures, and emotional landscapes, and being able to see the world from multiple angles is invaluable—not just for personal growth, but also for collaborating in a diverse world. Embracing these differences in the classroom would help students learn to leverage contrasting perspectives, allowing them to develop a more well-rounded understanding of themselves and others.

Growing up as one of the very few children wearing a turban at school, I often felt like there was a gap between my perspective and the perspectives of those around me. My peers struggled to understand why I wore a turban and what it meant, and I, in turn, had difficulty understanding their reactions or the assumptions they made. It wasn’t just a matter of me feeling different; it was also about realizing how hard it can be for people to connect with something so outside their experience. Over time, I came to understand that it wasn’t just about my own struggles—others were grappling with their own limited views, shaped by what they had been exposed to or taught. If there had been more space in school to discuss identity, culture, and the reasons behind different customs, I think there could have been more empathy on both sides. We would have been able to see each other’s perspectives more clearly, and perhaps even find more common ground. This experience made me realize the importance of understanding and connecting with contrasting perspectives, as it opens the door to a deeper level of empathy and growth. Taking the time to really listen to others and understand their experiences can help us navigate a diverse world with more empathy and respect.

Jasjot, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Jasjot Padam, and I am a 15-year-old innovator, photographer, and mental health advocate who strives to blend technology, psychology, and creativity to make a meaningful impact on the world.

From a young age, I was fascinated by the intersection of science and human emotion—how thoughts shape reality and how technology could help us understand ourselves better. Personal experiences I have observed for a long time and continue to witness have deepened my interest in human psychology, prompting me to learn more about how people think, feel, and interact. This understanding has shaped how I approach my work, from mental health advocacy to everyday interactions. While mental health is widely discussed, I noticed a gap in the perspectives people have in life. At the same time, I developed a deep love for photography, capturing moments and turning them into lasting memories. My journey has been one of bridging logic with emotion, whether through AI-powered solutions for mental well-being or the art of storytelling through my lens.

With this vision, I created MoodFoods, an AI-powered tool that helps users track their emotions and receive personalized food and spice recommendations to improve their mood. Food is more than just sustenance—it has the power to influence how we feel, yet many people overlook this connection. My goal is to empower people with knowledge about how their diet affects their mental state, allowing them to take small, yet impactful, steps toward emotional well-being. At the same time, my love for photography has transformed into a professional pursuit. I specialize in senior portraits, sports photography, and event photography, capturing moments that tell meaningful stories. I have worked for basketball players and continue to do so while also using my skills to fundraise for community initiatives, ensuring my passion for photography serves a greater purpose. I am most proud of my ability to use my diverse skills to create real impact—whether through MoodFoods, my contributions to neuroscience and mental health advocacy, or my photography. My work has allowed me to help others in meaningful ways, from providing tools that improve mental well-being to capturing images that preserve life’s most important moments. Additionally, I take pride in my community service efforts, whether it’s through hosting blood drives, tutoring, or volunteering at organizations that align with my mission.

While many may see science, psychology, and art as separate worlds, I see them as deeply connected. I believe that technology should be human-centered, that mental health should be accessible to all, and that creative expression is a powerful tool for change. What I want people to know about me is that I am constantly pushing boundaries—whether in mental health innovation, photography, or scientific research. My work isn’t just about creating solutions; it’s about redefining how we see the world and making sure no one feels alone in their journey. Whether you’re looking for a photographer, a mental health advocate, or a collaborator on innovative projects, I’d love to connect!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

From a young age, my turban set me apart. While I wore it with pride, there were moments when I felt the weight of being different. In a world where blending in often seems easier, I sometimes questioned whether I should let go of my identity just to feel a little less out of place. The challenge wasn’t just about appearances—it was about navigating a space where few people understood my culture, my faith, or the history behind the fabric I wrapped around my head every day.

There were times when the stares felt heavy, and the questions from peers, often well-intentioned but sometimes ignorant, made me doubt myself. But instead of letting those doubts consume me, I chose to educate. I started having conversations about my identity, explaining the meaning behind my turban and the sacrifices Sikhs have made to uphold their beliefs. I embraced opportunities to speak up, whether in debate, in leadership roles, or through projects that highlight my passion for mental health and community service.

Over time, what once felt like an isolating struggle became my greatest source of strength. I realized that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardship—it’s about transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. My journey has shaped me into someone who doesn’t just accept their differences but uses them to uplift others. Now, I stand firmly in my identity, knowing that my voice, my experiences, and my presence matter.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

At the heart of my creative journey is a commitment to using innovation and storytelling to make a meaningful impact—especially in the realms of mental health, education, and community building. Whether through MoodFoods, which bridges psychology and nutrition to improve emotional well-being, or my AI-powered tool that enhances medical diagnosis, my goal is to create solutions that empower people to understand and take charge of their health.

Beyond technology, my passion for photography and filmmaking allows me to share stories that might otherwise go unheard. I am involved in many Nishkam TV projects, where I help amplify voices, preserve cultural narratives, and inspire conversations that drive change. Additionally, as a photographer for The Mind Tricks of Neuroscience, I work to visually capture the essence of neuroscience while contributing to a global conversation on the power of mental health.

Ultimately, my mission is to combine psychology, technology, and creativity to break barriers—whether they exist in healthcare, education, or representation. I want my work to not only inform but also connect people, helping them see the power of their own identities and experiences.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://moodfoods.netlify.app/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clickedbyjasjot/
• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Featured in picture: Mayling Cheng, Laiba Najeeb, Michael Ramos