BCG proves that conversations can truly convert into inclusion | On World Autism Awareness Day, BCG chose to deep dive into inclusion with a deeply immersive session on neurodiversity, with autism at its heart. At the center of it all was Pranav Bakhshi. With honesty, pride, and quiet confidence, Pranav shared his lived experience of being India’s first fashion model on the spectrum to working at Reuters as an Associate Digital Producer, his journey moved the audience. “My autism is my superpower,” he said and, in that moment, you could feel the shift in the room. Through his speech he reminded everyone: “All we really need is a chance.” During the session, two parents in the audience shared their own personal journeys, feeling connected with what Pranav shared. Co-facilitated by Saumya, Head of Inclusion Enablement, the session was hosted in-person in Gurgaon and live-streamed across locations, with leadership actively participating. The impact? Over 400 attendees and countless shifted perspectives. Atul from BCG shared, "It was a privilege for everyone who attended, to be part of such an important and timely session. This was just a warm-up for our larger accessibility journey, and we look forward to more inspiring discussions ahead." | A corporate volunteering session at Tata Power that brought people together | Over three impactful days in Mumbai, Atypical Advantage, in collaboration with Being Jigyasu, partnered with Tata Power to create something truly meaningful. Bringing together 100+ employees across three offices, the initiative transformed corporate volunteering into a powerful act of inclusion. Participants came together to design and build Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) kits; a simple yet life-changing tools that enable autistic children to express their needs, emotions, and daily routines. Through a hands-on, immersive experience, employees didn’t just assemble kits; they built bridges to communication, independence, and dignity. These activities not only empower inclusion within organisations but also brings together employees, stronger than ever. Each thoughtfully created communication file is now ready to reach special schools and therapy centres, carrying forward the collective intent of making the world more accessible. | Aditya Birla’s employees experience revolutionary sensitization | The session with the Aditya Birla Group mining cohort brought together 60+ employees for a deeply engaging and thought-provoking conversation on reimagining mining practices. Led by Juhi Pandya, Head of Corporate Partnerships, the session moved beyond conventional formats to create a truly interactive and conversational experience. Blending case studies with powerful, context-driven videos, the discussion encouraged participants to pause, reflect, and share diverse perspectives. What emerged wasn’t just any conversation, but a collaborative space where ideas were co-created and voices were actively heard with employee seeking genuine advice for their real-life challenges. As a result, an immersive learning experience sparked meaningful conversations and left a lasting impact. | What if there's a space where opportunities find their way to you? | Join Atypical Advantage’s WhatsApp Channel, created especially for persons with disabilities, and stay updated with job openings, training programs, and upskilling workshops: All in one place. Because the right opportunity, at the right time, can change everything. Tap in, stay informed, and join a community of 8400+ persons with disabilities who are taking their next step forward. Click here to join. | NCPEDP calls for inclusive political reform ahead of women’s quota rollout | As India prepares to operationalize the Women’s Reservation Bill, NCPEDP has urged the government to extend political reservation to persons with disabilities as well. Highlighting the chronic underrepresentation of disabled individuals in decision-making spaces, the organization emphasized that this moment presents a crucial opportunity to build a more inclusive democracy—one that goes beyond gender and ensures representation for all. (Source: TOI) | Disabled voters in Kolkata demand accessibility from political leaders | Ahead of elections, voters with disabilities in Kolkata are urging political parties to prioritize their needs in manifestos. From increased allowances to better infrastructure and accessibility, their demands reflect a growing call for dignity, inclusion, and tangible policy action—pushing leaders to move from promises to real change on the ground. (Source: TOI) | Atypical Advantage is India’s largest livelihood platform for Persons with Disabilities(PWD). Whether it is a singer looking for a show, a visual artist looking to sell their paintings, or job seekers with disabilities looking for career opportunities, it bridges the supply & demand side inefficiencies so that Persons with Disabilities can earn a dignified income. We have a large pool of 50,000+ talents with disabilities and have worked with 500+ corporates within a short span of 5 years. We were also featured on Shark Tank Season 2 and were declared the winner of the prestigious National Startup Award for Social Impact, and the National Award for Best Organization empowering persons with disabilities in 2024, conferred by the Union Government. For more information, visit our website here. | |