She battled cancer, lost her eyesight temporarily and wrote 11 books before 20: The inspiring journey of a survivor who turned pain into purpose

For many people, a cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty about the future and force major changes in everyday life. For Dr Parin Somani, a diagnosis of ameloblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer, led to a difficult period involving surgeries and temporary loss of eyesight. During that phase, she began writing and completed 11 books before the age of 20.

Her journey later expanded into education, research, writing and public speaking. Today, Dr Somani works as the CEO of the London Organisation of Skills Development and Chief Editor of the Global Research Journal, while also being involved in initiatives related to student development and education.

Early life and the health challenge

Born on 17 June 1969 in India, Dr Parin Somani showed an early interest in sports. She became a Kho-Kho and Kabadi champion and was also recognised as number one winner in cycling competitions for continuous 5 years. Her life changed after she was diagnosed with ameloblastoma. The illness required major surgeries and affected her eyesight temporarily. Dr Somani has recalled that doctors gave her what she describes as a “biscuit expiry date” during her treatment period. The health challenge became a significant phase in her life and influenced her later interest in writing and education.

Writing became a part of her recovery
While dealing with the illness and recovery process, Dr Somani turned to writing. She completed 11 books before turning 20, beginning a journey that later developed her to become the author of 24 books. Over the years, she has written and published many books and research papers in Google Scholars, Scopus and Web science covering themes such as education, AI, youth development and women’s empowerment. Her books include Alchemy of Reflections and Manifest Inner Beauty.

Education and research career
Dr Somani pursued higher education and earned two PhDs in Education Media and Educational Leadership. She also holds six honorary doctorates in areas including Business Administration, World Peace and Global Education and currently she is supervisor and examiner for Post Doctorate students in Lincoln University.

Her professional work has focused on education and skill development. Through her organisations, she has supported students through mentorship programmes, research opportunities and internships.

She has also mentored students at Anglia Ruskin University and worked on initiatives aimed at expanding learning opportunities.

Taking her experiences to global audiences
Along with her work in education and writing, Dr Somani has developed a career as a motivational speaker and public figure. She has delivered more than 400 webinars and appeared in over 200 educational videos.
She has participated in more than 300 national and international conferences at many institutions globally including Harvard, Cambridge and Oxford University on subjects linked to education, leadership, mental health , personal growth and social development.

Her work has taken her to 129 countries, where she has engaged with different audiences through educational programmes and events.

Awards and recognitions
Dr Somani has received several recognitions during her career. She has held titles including Mrs India Globe 2025, Mrs Enigma World 2022, Mrs Universe 2022, Mrs India 2021 and Mrs BritAsian 2021.

She has also received honours such as the Lifetime Achievement Award by the UK Parliament and the Wonder Woman Award 2023. Her work has been recognised by platforms including Guinness World Records and India Book of Records and many more. In 2025, she received the Business Excellence Award from the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.

Work focused on education and communities
Apart from her professional work, Dr Somani has been involved in initiatives related to education and community support.

Her project on 'A Book of Happiness' featured 45 stories from different parts of the world. She is also a member of Forbes Councils. Since March 2020, her work has been featured in more than 177 media publications. Her story reflects how a difficult health experience became linked with a longer journey involving writing, education and social initiatives.