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Latest additions to the brand’s Fashionistas line include a blind Barbie and a black Barbie with Down Syndrome < Back Disability, News Mattel releases first-ever blind Barbie Latest additions to the brand’s Fashionistas line include a blind Barbie and a black Barbie with Down Syndrome MMS Staff 27 Jul 2024 2-min read Barbie by Mattel, known for its inclusive line of products, has added two new dolls to their ever-expanding repertoire. The first is a blind Barbie complete with a satiny blouse, textured ruffle skirt, a cane with a marshmallow tip, and functional sunglasses. The doll comes in accessible packaging with ‘Barbie’ written in Braille. Reportedly Mattel collaborated with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) both to make sure the doll was accessible and to ensure the depiction of low visibility and blindness was on point. The release marks the last few days of July, celebrated globally as Disability Pride Month. “As we wrap up Disability Pride month, we believe this is an excellent way to make children worldwide feel included, regardless of their abilities,” said Tony Stephens of the AFB. Eric Bridges, CEO of the AFB, said blind people have historically been misrepresented in the media, so he hopes this will educate people about blindness and vision impairment. In early 2020, the company had released its most diverse line yet , called the Barbie Fashionistas, featuring a doll with vitiligo, another with no hair, and yet another with dark skin and a prosthetic limb. These dolls were released with the intent of shining a light on conditions such as vitiligo and alopecia, as well as limb difference. Then, in 2023, Mattel collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society and released the first-ever Barbie with Down Syndrome. What’s worthy of mention is the brand has been including people with lived experience of all these conditions in the production of the dolls that represent them. “Our latest additions to the Barbie Fashionista line are part of our continued effort to represent global diversity and inclusivity in the fashion doll aisle and reflect the world children experience today, encouraging empathy through play,” said Krista Berger, the senior vice president of Barbie, in a press release. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How bad media representation of disability fuels stereotypes and excludes disabled voices < Back News, Disability Ableist magazine covers: A look through time How bad media representation of disability fuels stereotypes and excludes disabled voices MMS Staff 6 Jul 2024 4-min read That ableism - a term whose literal meaning is discrimination against people with disabilities - is deeply embedded in our society is no unknown fact. But when it rears its ugly head through mass media, and in the form of magazine covers no less, ableist attitudes are further perpetuated, making life even more difficult for those with disabilities and illnesses. Over the years, many magazines have carried brazenly ableist covers, enraging and prompting pushback by disability activists. This article is a collection of instances when our media has been supremely (and shamelessly) ableist. Instances of ableist magazine and newspaper covers through history Time Magazine (2003): Time Magazine ran a cover titled “Overcoming Dyslexia,” spreading gross misinformation about learning disabilities. The term “overcoming” implies that dyslexia is something to be conquered, rather than a difference to be understood and accommodated. This is especially wrong considering affirming language is crucial in shaping perceptions and attitudes towards disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. Interview Magazine (2015): In 2015, supermodel-entrepreneur Kylie Jenner was criticised for a photoshoot in Interview Magazine where she posed in a wheelchair. Disabled individuals and advocates found this use of a wheelchair as a fashion prop deeply offensive. Beth Grossman, Head of Policy at the disability charity Scope, remarked, “Having a non-disabled person in a wheelchair, as a provocative fashion prop, will offend many disabled people. It’s rare that we see aspirational and authentic reflections of disabled people in advertising and the media.” The Economist (2016): The Economist's April 2016 cover titled “Beautiful Minds, Wasted” was another egregious instance of blatant ableism perpetuated by mass media. Not only did the headline suggest autistic minds are wasted, the inappropriate puzzle piece depiction insinuated that autistic people are 'broken', need 'fixing', or complex beings who can't be 'figured out'. Patronising autistic people by using the ableist phrase "Beautiful Minds, Wasted" shows how even big, global publications don't make the effort to understand autism from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. The failure to consult with autistic people and include their perspectives in the story was a significant oversight. The New Yorker (2023): The New Yorker stirred controversy with a cover featuring US political leaders using walkers. The cartoon depicted Donald Trump, Mitch McConnell, Nancy Pelosi, and Joe Biden as frail and elderly, using mobility aids they do not actually need. This portrayal was criticised for its ageist and ableist implications, suggesting that age and the use of mobility aids diminish one’s capabilities. The Economist (2024): And the Economist, astonishingly, did it once again with their July 4 cover attacking President Joe Biden, depicting him as a “befuddled old man” using a zimmer frame branded with the presidential seal. This imagery sparked widespread outrage for its ableist undertones, suggesting that mobility aid use equates to unfitness for leadership. Catarina Rivera, a prominent disability advocate, expressed her dismay on LinkedIn: “This week's The Economist cover is ableist, disgraceful, and deeply offensive. It suggests that someone who uses a walker as a mobility aid is unfit to run the country. Disabled people are very capable of leadership — period (not 'despite' our disabilities, just exactly as we are). Using a mobility aid isn't something that's shameful or that makes someone unfit for leadership.” Heather Thompson, another advocate, shared her personal struggle with internalised ableism: “I used to hate my walker; I struggled with my own internalised ableism every time I needed to use the walker in public. What would people think? Your magazine cover validates my fears by normalising these false beliefs. A walker does not represent decline, nor is it synonymous with intellectual weakness.” Julia M, an able-bodied elder, condemned the cover for its harmful implications: “This is the most insulting, discriminatory, ableist cover for a major publication that I can remember. As an able-bodied elder, I condemn this harmful, ageist, and slanderous artwork. This is trash.” These voices highlight the broader impact of such representations, which extend beyond the individual to affect the entire disabled community. The harm of ableist depictions Ableist depictions in the media do undeniable harm. Ableist behaviours, notions and attitudes encourage stereotypes, reinforce bias, and marginalise disabled individuals. When disability is used as an insult or a symbol of incompetence, it results in a culture of exclusion and discrimination. Ableist representations of disability and neurodivergence also contribute to internalised ableism among individuals with these lived experiences, resulting in shame and self-stigma due to negative societal attitudes. Disability advocates emphasise the importance of accurate, respectful representations in the media. As Catarina Rivera pointed out, “Let's not forget that FDR (Franklin D Roosevelt) was a disabled president and a wheelchair user. The impact of this cover extends beyond The Economist itself.” Ongoing instances of ableist behaviours in various institutions and the media highlights the need for continuous advocacy and education. As Heather Thompson said, “Some of the greatest courage I’ve witnessed has come from those stepping into a walker and taking their fierce first steps.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

From birthmarks to prosthetics, these dolls celebrate what makes each child unique < Back Disability, News This woman makes toys that help kids with disabilities feel less alone From birthmarks to prosthetics, these dolls celebrate what makes each child unique MMS Staff 17 Apr 2025 4-min read When Amy Jandrisevits worked as a social worker in a paediatric oncology unit, she quickly learned how important dolls were for children coping with serious illness. Play therapy was a vital tool but something about it didn’t sit right with her. “The dolls had long eyelashes, full heads of hair, and perfect smiles,” she recalls. “They looked nothing like the kids holding them.” That disconnect planted a seed. Today, Amy is the founder of A Doll Like Me, a nonprofit that handcrafts dolls to reflect the unique physical characteristics of children with disabilities and medical conditions, from limb differences and albinism to surgical scars, burns, and birthmarks. What started as a personal project has now become a global movement centred on one powerful belief: every child deserves to see themselves represented just as they are. Dolls that validate, not "fix" In a world where children with disabilities are often made to feel invisible, Amy’s work offers more than just toys. It offers belonging. Each doll is thoughtfully made to match the child receiving it, not in a caricatured or exaggerated way, but with dignity, detail, and care. “These kids don’t need to be ‘fixed,” Amy says. “They’re already whole. What they need is representation.” The message is clear: children with disabilities are not broken: they are beautiful, and they deserve to be seen. From passion project to nonprofit mission Amy’s first custom doll was made for a young girl who had lost her leg. When the child saw the doll, she whispered, “She’s just like me.” That single sentence ignited what would become A Doll Like Me. Initially, Amy funded the project on her own and charged a fee for each custom doll. But she soon realized that many families couldn’t afford the cost. So, she started a GoFundMe campaign to ensure that no child would miss out on a doll that could change the way they saw themselves. As of now, she’s raised over $23,000 and hopes to reach her $25,000 goal to formally register the project as a nonprofit. Each doll costs around $100 to make. Amy doesn’t cut corners because, as she puts it, “You can’t put a price on self-worth.” A Doll Like Me now works with children's hospitals across the US to identify children who would benefit from receiving a personalised doll. Paediatricians and child life specialists recognise the psychological value of these dolls, not just in building self-esteem, but also in helping children process trauma, grief, and identity. Amy sees it as emotional medicine. “Mental health is health. If a doll can make a child feel less alone, more confident, or simply smile on a hard day, that’s everything.” One doll, one child, one story at a time Each doll Amy makes is different, just like the kids who receive them. She listens to parents’ stories, studies photographs, and pays attention to details that matter: a favourite colour, hairstyle, tiny brace, scar that tells a story. One doll might have a feeding tube. Another might have a birthmark shaped like a heart. The reactions are powerful. Videos on the A Doll Like Me Facebook page capture tearful parents, laughing kids, and quiet moments of awe as children recognise themselves in their new dolls. In a world that often sidelines disability, A Doll Like Me is a soft but powerful revolution. It affirms that representation isn’t just a matter of policy or entertainment, that it starts early. In childhood. In play. In toys that tell the truth. As Amy puts it, “These dolls are a way to say, ‘You are perfect just the way you are.’ And every child deserves to hear that.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Abhishek Singh awarded Man of the Match, Sai Akash bags Player of the Series < Back News, Disability Indian Deaf cricket team beats England in bilateral T20 series Abhishek Singh awarded Man of the Match, Sai Akash bags Player of the Series MMS Staff 3 Jul 2024 2-min read Only a couple of days ago did India win the international T20 World Cup. And the entire nation erupted in celebration. Streets were filled with cheers and celebration, and fireworks lit up the sky. And yet, when the Indian Deaf Cricket Team had achieved their historic victory just two days earlier, there was complete silence. On June 27, the Indian Deaf Cricket Team emerged victorious at the County Ground, Leicester in the bilateral series against England. They beat the English Men’s Deaf Cricket team by 5 - 2 in a 7-match series. The Indian team’s success is a moment of celebration for the entire nation, marking another milestone in the journey of Indian cricket. The men in blue continue to inspire, paving the way for future generations of D/ deaf cricketers. The Indian team dominated the series, defeating the hosts in the final match by six wickets. In the finals, India - electing to bowl - restricted England to 164 for 4 and then chased down the target with four balls to spare, riding on half-centuries by Abhishek (68) and Umar Ashraf (56). Despite not having the best of starts losing the first three wickets for only 46 runs, Abhishek and Ashraf’s 95-run partnership rebuilt the innings and took the side over the line. Abhishek Singh was awarded Man of the Match, while Sai Akash Man of the Series. Captain Virender Singh took the maximum wickets. Speaking on this achievement, Sumit Jain, President of the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), said, “The victory in this bilateral series against England is not just a win on the field but a testament to the dedication and skill of our hearing-impaired players. It marks a significant milestone for deaf cricket in India, showcasing our capability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport.” The series win underscores the growing talent and potential within the D/ deaf cricketing community. Roma Balwani, CEO of IDCA, said, “I am thrilled by India’s historic triumph against England in the bilateral series. This victory underscores our team’s commitment to excellence in cricket." The team’s achievements highlight the importance of inclusivity in sports and demonstrate that with the right opportunities and support, athletes can excel at the highest levels. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Thai PM joins Bangkok's Pride parade, highlighting the nation's historic push towards legalizing same-sex marriage < Back LGBTQIA+, Gender, News Thailand celebrates Pride Month amidst same-sex marriage advancements Thai PM joins Bangkok's Pride parade, highlighting the nation's historic push towards legalizing same-sex marriage MMS Staff 2 Jun 2024 4-min read The streets of Bangkok were awash with rainbow flags on Saturday, marking the beginning of Pride Month with a spectacular parade that saw thousands of LGBTQIA+ people coming together in a vibrant display of unity and love. As signs and placards bearing the slogan "Love wins'' adorned the city, the event signified more than just a celebration; it marked a pivotal moment in Thailand's journey towards legalising same-sex marriages. "This year's pride parade can be considered one of the biggest because it coincides with the passing of the same-sex marriage," said Avorawan Ramwan, who joined the parade with her partner. The significance of this year's parade is heightened by the anticipation of a landmark legislative change. Thailand is on the brink of legalizing same-sex marriage, with an equality bill set for its final readings in the Senate later this month. An overhead view of the Bangkok Pride parade, showcasing a massive rainbow flag stretching across the street, carried by a large crowd of participants. People line the sidewalks and an overpass, cheering and taking photos, as the vibrant colors of the flag create a striking visual display. The parade highlights the strong support for LGBTQIA+ rights and the push for same-sex marriage equality in Thailand. In a show of solidarity and support, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin participated in the parade, donning a rainbow shirt. He took to social media to express his support, stating, "It is a basic right to choose who to love." The Prime Minister’s participation and public endorsement reflect a growing acceptance and recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights in Thailand. The bill, which passed the upper house's first reading in April, is scheduled for its second and third readings this month. "The Senate will likely pass the bill on June 18," said Senator Wallop Tangkananuruk, chairman of the Senate's committee on same-sex marriage. Should the bill pass without amendments from the lower house, it will be sent for royal approval, after which it will become law 120 days post-publication in the Royal Gazette. Thailand's embrace of LGBTQIA+ rights is not only reflected in its legislative progress but also in its cultural and social landscape. Known globally as a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community, Thailand has long been celebrated for its inclusivity and acceptance. The country hosts numerous pride events and has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene that attracts visitors from around the world. "Pride events are meaningful, and Thailand is known worldwide as a paradise for the LGBT community. Therefore, we must help promote and advocate for it, as well as implement laws to support the LGBT community," said transgender woman Aunchanaporn Pilsauta. Her words emphasise the importance of both societal acceptance and legal recognition in creating a truly inclusive environment. As Thailand moves closer to recognizing same-sex marriages, the enthusiasm and hope among the LGBTQIA+ community are palpable. The potential passing of the same-sex marriage bill not only signifies a major victory for LGBTQIA+ rights in Thailand but also sets a progressive example for other nations in the region and beyond. A participant in the Bangkok Pride parade proudly holds a sign reading 'Mr. Gay World,' while carrying a rainbow flag. He is followed by other participants dressed in colorful outfits, including a person in a Dalmatian costume. The parade path is painted in rainbow colors, and the sides are lined with spectators cheering and taking photos. In the background, a stage and balloons in rainbow colors add to the festive atmosphere, celebrating LGBTQIA+ pride and advocacy in Thailand. Context on Thailand's LGBTQIA+ affirmation Thailand has long been regarded as one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries in Southeast Asia. The country’s rich cultural history, combined with its contemporary embrace of diversity, has positioned it as a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance. Cities like Bangkok and Pattaya are well-known for their vibrant LGBTQIA+ communities and events, drawing tourists and locals alike to celebrate and support equality. Despite the progress, the journey towards full legal recognition has been a challenging one. Activists and allies have tirelessly campaigned for years, pushing for equal rights and protections under the law. The upcoming potential legalization of same-sex marriage is a testament to their perseverance and the gradual shift in societal attitudes towards greater inclusivity. A step towards equality The momentum for change is building, and the prospect of legalized same-sex marriage in Thailand is a beacon of hope for many. The celebration during this year's Pride Month, with its unprecedented turnout and official endorsements, highlights the critical intersection of cultural celebration and legal progress. As Thailand inches closer to this historic milestone, the spirit of Pride and the message that "Love wins" continue to resonate powerfully across the nation and beyond. This article incorporates information from a Reuters report on the recent Pride events and legislative developments in Thailand. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Inconsistencies in India's assessment system prevents disabled representation in STEM fields < Back News, Disability, Education Disabled NEET candidates face challenges with college admissions Inconsistencies in India's assessment system prevents disabled representation in STEM fields MMS Staff 13 Jun 2024 3-min read In India, the road to becoming a medical professional is - to say the least - rigorous, demanding superlative academic excellence and resilience. But for candidates with disabilities, the challenges often go beyond academic difficulties; they deal with systemic inequities obstructing their rightful access to education. Today, Times of India carried a report on Lakshay Sharma, a visually impaired NEET-UG (National Eligibility cumulative Entrance Test) 2023 candidate, scoring an impressive 548 out of 720, which should have been a straightforward ticket to medical school under the disability reservation. But he was rejected during the counselling process at a hospital where he was incorrectly deemed ineligible for disability reservation due to perceived 0% vision. Simply speaking, they incorrectly assessed him as having no vision at all when in fact Sharma had valid disability certificates from JP Hospital, Bhopal, and AIIMS, New Delhi stating the contrary. It took an intervention from the chief commissioner for persons with disabilities (CCPwD) to straighten this out, ordering a reassessment at another eye centre, which correctly identified him as 40% disabled, confirming his eligibility for the reserved seat. Recurring challenges and advocacy for standardisation This is hardly a one-off incident. A lot of NEET candidates with disabilities face similar bureaucratic and medical oversights every year. Laxmi Chaudhary and Usman, two other disabled candidates, had similar experiences at hospitals only to be deemed eligible after reassessments. This highlights a pattern of inconsistency in the assessment process mandated by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Disability rights activists, along with disabled candidates, are now advocating for a standardisation of the disability assessment process, putting extra emphasis on the need to implement stringent guidelines that ensure fairness and accuracy in disability evaluations. Understanding the Unique Disability ID (UDID) certification process The Unique Disability ID (UDID) system was introduced in India in 2016 to streamline the identification and verification of persons with disabilities. The UDID serves as an identity document that contains relevant details about a person’s disability and/ or health condition, with the aim to eliminate the need for multiple documents and make it easier for card holders to avail benefits. To obtain a UDID, an individual must undergo a medical examination at a designated medical centre approved by the government. In the assessment, the medical board evaluates the type and extent of disability (usually determined in percentage), and a card is issued based on the findings from the test. This ID (called the UDID) has been put in place to allow for transparency and uniformity in the process of certification across the country. Proposals for reform Dr Satendra Singh, renowned disability rights activist and a person with disability, suggests the following reforms to safeguard the rights of disabled candidates: Video recording of assessments: To ensure transparency and accountability in assessments, all evaluations must be video recorded. Inclusion of doctors with disabilities: The presence of medical professionals who are themselves disabled on assessment panels can ensure more empathetic and accurate evaluations. #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs Penalties for non-compliance: Institutions deviating from standard protocols in the UDID certification process should face strict penalties. Historical challenges in STEM for disabled individuals Disabled people have long faced difficulties in pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. These challenges aren't just limited to physical accessibility; they include discriminatory attitudes as well as a lack of supportive resources that are essential for learning and working in these disciplines. The systemic barriers show up in various ways such as inadequate adaptive technology, insufficient training for faculty to address diverse needs, and a pervasive culture of low expectations from disabled students. To pave the way for true inclusivity, educational institutions, government bodies, and the multiple stakeholders in the medical space need to refine their approaches not just by limiting the extent of their involvement in these matters to merely compliance with legal requirements, but actively supporting and empowering all students. Disclaimer: the above image is AI generated and used for representational purposes only. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

This Pride month, our community reflects on embracing both neurodivergence and queerness < Back Community, Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ The significance of Pride for neurodivergent LGBTQIA people This Pride month, our community reflects on embracing both neurodivergence and queerness MMS Staff 21 Jun 2024 3-min read Every June, Pride Month celebrates the diversity and strength of the LGBTQIA+ community. But within this collective coming together, it's important to remember that Pride could mean different things for different people. The essence of Pride is the diverse voices and lived experiences it represents and stands by, particularly for those at the intersections of multiple identities — such as neurodivergence, disability and LGBTQIA+. To fully honour the spirit of Pride, we need to embrace an intersectional approach that acknowledges and addresses the varied and complex realities of the entire community. And so we asked our community to share what Pride means to them, as neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folx. Here’s what #MuchMuchSays : Embracing my neurodivergence and queerness. Unmasking with people who feel like home! 💖 Saving my spoons by not engaging with people who are judgy, ableist or dull my sparkle ✨ - @aditigangrade_ Learning how both these parts of me overlap and create an unique experience for me. Finding a community with more neuro-queer folx. Trying to understand ways to better support myself in allistic spaces. - @ usri.be _ing In theory, I 💯 support everything Pride stands for. I’m queer, nonbinary and autistic. Neuroqueer is also how I describe myself. I advocate for neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people in my job, and I live the values of Pride year-round. But I live in San Antonio, Texas, where Pride is celebrated outdoors in the 100 degree F summer heat. That heat is dangerous for me because of my fibromyalgia and because of the meds I take. Even when the parade starts at 9 pm, it usually hasn’t cooled off that much. - @stardust_silkys Embracing yourself and everyone for who they are. Love my autism and my LGBTQ+ identity. Love has no limits. - @_irigeorge_iridizontas Celebrating love with understanding inclusive people (I'm in a straight marriage, but I love love and it should always be celebrated!). Showing my respect to those who have suffered from discrimination just for wanting to be loved and understood x - @debworth88 There are lots of ways of existing as a happy healthy human that isn’t the standard path society tells us are the norm - @peachnpumpkin Being actually included by queer groups 🥰🥰🥰 - @yagamilight3000 As a straight and cisgendered autistic man, I feel connected to other people who I think are also neurodivergent. I believe that the areas of the brain where sexual orientation and gender identity exist are their own distinct neurotypes. When someone isn’t straight or cisgender, those neurotype ares are the result of neurodivergent brain structures. While I don’t have the experiential empathy of being someone of the LGBTQIA+, I share a more generalized experience of not being what everyone wanted me to be and being misunderstood throughout my life; it’s from this that I can draw up empathy for LGBTQIA+ people. The must be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, understanding and visibility. - @bradcotter002 A proof that it is NOT illegal or “sinful” to love sby of your own gender or both!! 🥳🍾🎊🎉🏳️🌈💜💙 #itsokaytobegay 😎🌈 - @mariksen Rainbows and parties 🌈 🌈🌈😂 I don’t need a special month to live the “pride lifestyle”. - @_katbls_ Almost all of my neurospicy friends are queer.. theyre inextricably linked. There is pride in accepting our neurodivergence and our sexuality and gender identities. Its just another thing to celebrate and be proud of. To stand up for and speak out about. Let our voices be heard - @hanami_dango_ Pride is more than a celebration; it's a pivotal moment of visibility and acceptance for those who often navigate multiple layers of marginalisation. By listening to the voices of the neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ community and implementing inclusive practices, we can ensure that Pride is an empowering experience for everyone involved. PS: Our Community series stories are unedited for grammar or spelling, and posted as received on our socials. The original comments can be found on our Instagram . Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The first report in a 3-part series based on #ChatterFest '23 < Back Diversity Equity Inclusion at Work The first report in a 3-part series based on #ChatterFest '23 Chatter Fest is a global inclusion festival where professionals, creatives, people with lived experience, and leaders from around the globe come together to discuss all things inclusion. Click below to download the report: MMS_DEI-at-work_ChatterFest-23_2024 .pdf Download PDF • 5.22MB WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

Demystifying Neurodiversity for families who are underprivileged with Ummeed CDC < Back Samjho aur Samjhao Demystifying Neurodiversity for families who are underprivileged with Ummeed CDC We developed this campaign in collaboration with Ummeed CDC, a Mumbai-based non-profit. One of the main reasons behind it was our research and social listening showed us that there is a significant lack of awareness and understanding about Autism and Down Syndrome in low-income and underprivileged communities in India. Existing resources are often not culturally or linguistically accessible to these families, and - in a lot of cases - not affirming enough. There is a dire need to address and correct common myths and misconceptions about developmental and intellectual disabilities. Data & existing perceptions: Studies and existing research indicates that awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity are low in India, especially in rural and low-income areas. Through social listening and interactions with our online community and families, we identified some specific myths and misconceptions prevalent in these communities, such as viewing Autism as bad behavior or believing Down Syndrome prevents access to a successful career. The insights: Many parents believe in the myth that Autism can be cured with traditional medicine or behavioral corrections. There's a prevailing misconception that children with Down Syndrome cannot lead successful professional lives. A significant number of families mourn the birth of a child with Down Syndrome, rather than celebrating the child’s birth. In a lot of families, mothers are blamed for the birth of a child with Down Syndrome, or an Autistic child. Our approach: Wanting to address Hindi-speaking low income families through easy-to-understand literature, we created a docket of illustrations, comics and stories that resonated with the lived experiences of Indian families. Our focus was on educational content that not only informed but also celebrated neurodiversity, highlighting strengths and capabilities. Apart from ensuring their use as physical fliers and print-outs to put up on pin boards at the center, we also uploaded these resources and content to multiple social media channels to ensure wide reach and engagement. Campaign objective & goals: To educate and raise awareness among low-income and underprivileged families about Autism and Down Syndrome. Goals: Demystify disabilities and bust common myths surrounding neurodivergent conditions. Provide culturally relevant resources. Engage and educate a wide audience. Challenges: Ensuring the content was culturally appropriate and sensitive. Making sure the information was accessible in Hindi, addressing the lack of affirming resources in regional languages. Solutions devised: Our narratives, language and campaign material were designed to speak to low-income families, families from tier1, 2, and 3 cities, and rural areas, as well as underprivileged Hindi-speaking families, and the general audience. All 10 stories put together as part of the campaign had positive and affirming messages about neurodiversity, focusing on strengths and capabilities. We addressed the specific myths that our research showed, and provided factual, easy-to-understand information about Autism and Down Syndrome. Deliverables: 3 x carousel posts (engaging illustrations & comics to engage the audience) 6 x static posts (graphical illustrations and explainers) Platforms: Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn: chosen for their wide reach and ability to engage diverse audiences Offline spaces: Resource kits were distributed at Ummeed CDC centers and events Length: The campaign ran consistently for a period of 3 months Content was released periodically to maintain engagement Impact: High engagement across social media platforms Consistent traction and sharing on WhatsApp and Facebook groups Overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and caregivers Conclusion & learnings: Successfully raised awareness and educated target audience, effectively addressing cultural and language barriers Demonstrated the importance of culturally relevant and accessible content in driving engagement and education Way forward: Continue to create and share educational content t argeting more communities and regions, including other regional languages Partner with more organizations to amplify impact WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream < Back LGBTQIA+, Parenting, News Trans mom raises adopted daughter to be gold-winning kickboxer From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream MMS Staff 6 Oct 2024 2-min read Meet Shabana, a 65-year-old transgender woman from Mysuru, India who went from begging on the streets to raising her adopted daughter, Bibi Fathima, into a gold-medal-winning kickboxer. Here’s the real story behind how they made it happen. Years ago, Shabana faced a lot of challenges. Surviving on the streets of Mysuru, her life was tough. Then, when her cousin abandoned four daughters, Shabana made a decision that would change everything — she adopted them, despite having almost nothing herself. One of those girls was Bibi Fathima, who had an unusual passion: kickboxing. At just 12, Fathima was determined to pursue her passion, even breaking open her piggy bank to enroll at a local kickboxing academy. Shabana, despite her limited means, supported her every step of the way. What started as a dream turned into a serious pursuit. Training hard every day, Fathima’s talent quickly caught the eye of her coaches. And it wasn’t long before the medals started rolling in. She’s now racked up 23 medals in various district, state, and national competitions. Her latest win is a gold medal at the 16th Karnataka State Kickboxing Championship. Fathima isn’t stopping at state competitions. She’s gearing up for even bigger tournaments in 2025, with plans to take on the national and international kickboxing scene. Shabana, always by her side, is ready to support her through whatever comes next. Fathima’s goals are clear; she’s already dreaming of one day becoming a coach herself. This mother-daughter duo is already making waves, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS