Bhubaneswar, 15th November 2024 – The scenic Kalabhoomi in Bhubaneswar set the stage for a groundbreaking discussion titled “Autistic Adults: Moving from Surviving to Thriving – From Literature, Laws and Policies to Real-Life Changes.” Organized by the Ketaki Foundation in collaboration with Swabhiman, this event was a key highlight of the 23rd Anjali International Children and Youth Festival 2024. The panel discussion is part of the Dialogues in Disability series, aimed at redefining how society supports and perceives autistic individuals.
This initiative focused on shifting societal attitudes from viewing autism as merely a challenge to embracing it as a different way of thriving. Experts, advocates, and self-advocates gathered to discuss actionable strategies for creating inclusive systems that empower autistic adults in all facets of life.
Dr. Sruti Mahapatra, founder of Swabhiman and a renowned advocate for persons with disabilities, opened the session by emphasizing the urgent need to translate policy frameworks into meaningful real-world changes. She highlighted the potential of initiatives like this panel discussion in fostering societal understanding and inclusion.
Moderated by Gargi Bhattacharya, an experienced disability inclusion advocate, the event welcomed an exceptional lineup of panelists whose insights spanned global perspectives and local challenges.
The panel discussion brought together a distinguished group of experts whose diverse backgrounds and deep commitment to autism advocacy enriched the conversation with unique perspectives and actionable insights.
Clare Gibellini, Co-chair of Australia’s National Autism Strategy Oversight Council, offered a global perspective on systemic support for autistic individuals. With her extensive experience, Clare shared examples of effective policies and frameworks implemented in Australia to ensure equal opportunities and community inclusion for autistic adults. Her advocacy emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach between governments, organizations, and communities to create a sustainable environment for autistic individuals to thrive.
Sraddha Bhattacherjee, a celebrated public speaker and Mrs. India Nayantara 2021, brought a fresh lens to the discussion, focusing on the transformative power of representation and diversity. Drawing from her personal journey, Sraddha highlighted how visibility and advocacy can break stereotypes and inspire society to embrace inclusivity. Her insights showcased the role of leadership in driving societal change.
Merry Barua, the pioneering Director of Action for Autism in India, shared decades of experience in autism advocacy. Merry’s contributions have empowered countless families and individuals to navigate the challenges associated with autism. She spoke passionately about the need for accessible education, early intervention programs, and sustained family support systems, underscoring the importance of community involvement.
Prof. Swarna Lata Mishra, an educator and founder of the Manage Autism Now (MAN) Trust, offered a rich perspective on the educational and therapeutic needs of autistic individuals. Prof. Mishra discussed her work in creating tailored learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of children with autism. Her emphasis on innovative teaching methods and therapeutic support highlighted the transformative potential of a well-rounded education.
Dr. Aparna Goyal, Associate Professor at IHBAS, brought her expertise in child psychiatry and mental health to the table. Dr. Goyal explored the critical intersection of mental well-being and autism, focusing on initiatives that promote holistic health for children and adolescents. Her research-based insights stressed the importance of mental health interventions and policy support to ensure a seamless transition from childhood to adulthood for autistic individuals.
Together, these panelists painted a comprehensive picture of what thriving looks like for autistic adults. Their collective expertise underscored that real change requires a multi-faceted approach, combining policy reform, community engagement, education, and mental health support to empower autistic individuals to lead fulfilling lives.A Collaborative Mission for Inclusion
The Ketaki Foundation, known for its commitment to the cultural and social upliftment of Odisha, partnered with Swabhiman to make this event a success. Through exhibitions, research, and publications, the foundation continues its efforts to integrate disabled individuals into mainstream public and cultural life.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Mahapatra reaffirmed the shared mission of both organizations to break barriers and build spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, is empowered to thrive.
This event marks a significant step towards a future where inclusivity is not an aspiration but a reality, paving the way for autistic adults to transition from merely surviving to truly thriving.
