On November 16, 2024, an extraordinary panel discussion titled Women with Disabilities – Changing the World for the Better: From Literature, Laws, and Policies to Real-Life Changes was held at Kalabhoomi, Bhubaneswar. This impactful event was organized by Swabhiman in collaboration with the Ketaki Foundation Trust as part of the 23rd Anjali International Children and Youth Festival 2024.
The event brought together some of the most inspiring voices from around the world, representing diverse fields such as advocacy, academia, law, and entrepreneurship. With a focus on breaking barriers and redefining societal norms, the panel explored the intersection of gender, disability, and empowerment.
Dr. Sruti Mohapatra, the dynamic Founder and CEO of Swabhiman, set the tone with her heartfelt welcome address, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive society. The stage was then handed over to a stellar lineup of panelists who shared their journeys, insights, and vision for the future.
The panel featured powerful voices, each with a unique story of resilience and advocacy:
Sumitra Parhi captivated the audience with her story of resilience. She shared inspiring tales of women like Frieda Kahlo, Sudha Chandran, and Sheetal Devi, while also recounting her own struggles with rheumatoid arthritis and hearing loss. She emphasized that societal views of women as inherently disabled stem from deep-seated biases, which she called “mental disabilities.” Despite these challenges, she has become a successful travel blogger writer and researcher.
Diethono Nakhro, Nagaland’s State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, provided a unique perspective as a woman with a disability in a patriarchal tribal society. She emphasized the compounded challenges faced by women with disabilities and urged them to reject labels and demand change.
Kanchan Pamnani, a low-vision disability rights advocate and a director at Deutsche Bank, shared her story of overcoming low vision to excel in mathematics and law, despite being discouraged by societal biases. Her journey highlights the power of determination in breaking barriers.
Dr. Komal Kamra, an academic and social empowerment advocate, questioned society’s definitions of disability. “Challenges make us tougher,” she said, urging society to rethink its biases and embrace inclusivity.
Mr. Krishna Mohan Tata, an entrepreneur and storyteller, shifted the focus to the unnoticed lives of disabled women in ordinary settings, celebrating them as everyday heroes.
The session also featured virtual presentations by renowned international voices:
Sarah Muthoni Kamau, a disability rights expert, highlighted policy reforms needed for true inclusivity.
Kerryann Ifill, President of the Barbados Council for the Disabled, emphasized building a world where every woman’s potential is valued.
Rhoda Garland, Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, shared insights into systemic changes needed for global impact.
The interactive session saw the audience deeply engaged with the panelists during the Question & Answer segment. Topics ranged from societal barriers and inclusive laws to the pressing need for equal opportunities for women with disabilities. The overarching message was clear: while progress has been made, the journey is far from over. The panelists urged for continued advocacy, solidarity, and grassroots.
The event concluded with an insightful summing-up by Rachita Swain and a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Jyoti Swain of the Ketaki Foundation Trust, capturing the collective hope and determination of all those present.
As attendees left the venue, they carried with them a powerful message: the world can and must be a better place for women with disabilities. It will take inclusive policies, heightened societal awareness, and individual efforts to make this vision a reality. The voices from this event will undoubtedly echo far and wide, sparking action and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
This event was not just a panel discussion; it was a call for change, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder that every voice matters in the journey toward a better world.
