Evaluation & Jury: Briea National Student Competition 2025
Essays are reviewed without any reference to the student’s name, college, or background. Every entry stands on its own merit.
Our jury members are mental health professionals, educators, and student advocates who understand the pressures students face today. They evaluate each essay based on clear, fair, and purpose-driven parameters.
Every essay is scored on aspects that matter — clarity, depth, creativity, practicality, and engagement. The aim is not just to pick winners but to recognize authentic voices and workable solutions.
We approach every submission as an opportunity to understand and support students better. The insights gathered help shape conversations around wellbeing and real change.
We want essays that go beyond surface observations. Our criteria include:
We value practical and thoughtful solutions. Our criteria include:
Students face stress, exhaustion, and uncertainty more than ever before. By carefully listening to their experiences and ideas, we aim to create a space where solutions are rooted in real life, not just theory. Our jury members are mentors — they bring experience, empathy, and integrity to ensure that every essay is treated with the respect it deserves.
Each jury member has been chosen for their expertise and their commitment to student wellbeing. Their role is not just to judge but to support, listen, and foster solutions that matter.
Dr. Alana Pudalov (DSW, LCSW, MAPP, SIFI), Director of Wellness at BGCNW, is a global expert in positive psychology, trauma care, and youth well-being. With advanced degrees from NYU, UPenn, and Columbia, she brings over 13 years of experience helping young people build resilience and balance. Deeply interested in the mental health challenges faced by college students, she generously contributes her expertise to support Indian youth through the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. Ambika R, Professor of Electronics & Communication and Dean of Student Welfare at BMS Institute of Technology & Management, Bengaluru, holds a PhD in Network Security with over 30 publications. With more than two decades of academic and research experience, she guides multiple research scholars. Beyond her technical expertise, she is deeply committed to student welfare, especially in nurturing overall health and mental well-being. Her blend of academic excellence and student-centric vision makes her a valued member of the Jury.
Dr. Arthur Phillips, a physician and public health leader from Barbados, has worked across government, academia, and civil society to advance NCD prevention and health equity. With a passion for wellness, social entrepreneurship, and resilient health systems, he brings a global perspective to the Jury of Briea National Student Competition 2025—kindly contributing his expertise for the benefit of Indian students.
Mr. Atul Pandya is a corporate leader with a deep passion for wellness, fitness, and mental health, especially among young minds. A former Chief Engineer with Japanese MNC JFEE, he has extensive experience in managing large-scale projects with precision and accountability. His unique blend of professional discipline and personal commitment to youth well-being makes him a valuable voice on the Jury of the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Ms. Binali Suhandani is a Partnerships & Fundraising Leader with nearly three decades of experience across India and APAC, building coalitions among platforms, policymakers, funders, and industry. Passionate about student mental health and well-being, Binali also mentors youth and women, fostering inclusive leadership and resilience.
Mr. David Trunnell, a veteran of U.Sl health technology, brings decades of expertise in healthcare systems and a profound understanding of student wellness and mental health. As Briea’s U.S. representative, he provides a global perspective and strategic insight, making him a vital voice on the Jury of the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Mrs. Dimple Shukla, a dedicated Computer Science educator with 25+ years of experience, is admired by students for her approachable and inspiring guidance. Beyond teaching, she has authored NCERT-based reference material and contributed to Gujarat State Board curriculum design. Her deep understanding of students’ minds and passion for their growth make her a valued Jury member for Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. Hardik M. Patel, Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, is Head of Computer Engineering at Vidush Somany Institute of Technology & Research, KSV University, Gandhinagar. With 14+ years of academic and research excellence, he has authored international books, published Scopus-indexed papers, and holds multiple patents. A young academic leader, he is deeply connected with students and passionate about their well-being, innovation, and growth.
Dr. Maulika Patel, Principal of MB Patel Institute of Technology, CVM University, has 28 years of rich experience in teaching, research, and academic leadership. Beyond 40+ publications and national recognition, she is deeply committed to students’ mental health, all-round growth, and empowerment. Her dedication to guiding young minds makes her a powerful voice on the Jury of the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Ms. Meeta Bhardwaj, Health Coach at Briea, leads the Student Wellness Plan and regularly consults with students, giving her a deep understanding of their needs. A certified Yoga Teacher and Ayurvedic Dietician with 6 years of experience, she combines holistic wellness practices with practical guidance. Passionate about natural healing, she empowers students to restore balance, build resilience, and thrive. Her expertise makes her a valuable Jury member for the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Prof. Michail Okoliyski, former Head of the WHO Office in Bulgaria and current Deputy Minister of Health (2023), is a leading expert in mental health and addiction prevention. With over 100 scientific publications and decades of experience, he combines psychotherapy practice with academic leadership. His lifelong mission is to advance mental health education and student well-being
Mr. Naman Parikh, a recent UCLA graduate, brings fresh insights from student life and a strong understanding of youth challenges. With hands-on experience in high-end residential and multi-family design projects, he combines technical expertise with creativity and disciplined problem-solving. His close connection to students and innovative mindset make him a valuable Jury member for the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Ms. Nisha Patel, Dietitian and Health Coach with the Briea App, provides personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance to support student wellness. As the lead coach for the Student Wellness Plan, she regularly interacts with students, empowering them to build healthy habits and resilience. Her hands-on experience with youth well-being makes her a valuable Jury member for the Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. N. Sampathkumar, Principal of SSM College of Arts and Science, Dindigul, is a student-favorite academic leader with over two decades in higher education. A Professor of Chemistry, he blends academic excellence with a passion for student well-being, social welfare, and community development. His deep connect with youth makes him a valued Jury member for Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. P.K. Shukla, Principal of VITS, Satna, is a visionary academic leader dedicated to fostering student success, innovation, and inclusive growth. Known for blending tradition with progress, he has been a guiding force in shaping disciplined learning environments while mentoring young minds. His commitment to student development makes him a valuable Jury member for Briea National Student Competition 2025.
With 38 years of teaching experience, Associate Professor Pardip Dholakia has spent his entire career shaping young minds across Gujarat. Currently at Sir P. T. Sarvajanik College of Science (NAAC A+), he deeply understands how students’ perspectives have transformed over time. His passion for guiding youth makes his role on the Briea National Student Competition 2025 Jury especially meaningful.
Prof. Rohan Kokate, Head of Computer Applications at JDCOEM, Nagpur, combines 15 years of academic and industry experience with a deep connection to students. Known for his relatable approach and mentorship, he bridges innovation and learning through research, patents, and publications. His passion for student growth makes him an inspiring Jury member for Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. S. Uma Gowrie, Principal & Secretary of Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai, is an accomplished academic leader with 27+ years of teaching and research excellence. With numerous publications, awards, and mentoring of scholars, she combines academic distinction with a deep commitment to student wellness and mental health—making her a valued member of the Jury for Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. Shrija Madhu, Professor and Head of CSE (Data Science) at Godavari Global University, brings 24 years of experience in education and student engagement. An active member of IAENG, Red Cross, and UHV Foundation, she is also a committed UHV volunteer. Passionate about health, well-being, and youth development, she loves interacting with students and guiding them through their challenges. Her experience and empathy make her an asset to the Jury of Briea National Student Competition 2025.
Dr. Syam Baddeti, a visionary academic leader, has transformed his institution into an autonomous, top-accredited center of excellence. Actively shaping national education reforms, he is deeply committed to student well-being—championing mental health, ethical leadership, and inclusive growth. His decades of experience with generations of students make him a powerful voice on the Jury of Briea National Student Competition 2025.