Autistic Adults: Moving from Surviving to Thriving 

From Literature, Laws, and Policies to Real-Life Changes

15 Nov 2024
Kalabhoomi, Conference Hall
Odisha Craft Museum, Bhuabneswar

Dr. Sruti Mahapatra introduces the esteemed panelists and sets a tone for the event

In an inspiring collaboration, the Ketaki Foundation and Swabhiman, Bhubaneswar, hosted the pivotal panel discussion titled “Autistic Adults: Moving from Surviving to Thriving – From Literature, Laws, and Policies to Real-Life Changes” as part of their Dialogues in Disability series. The event, held at Kalabhoomi Crafts Museum, gathered experts, advocates, and self-advocates to explore the urgent need for a transformative approach to supporting autistic adults.

This panel discussion aimed to shift the narrative surrounding autism, moving beyond viewing it merely as a challenge and advocating for an inclusive, empowering framework that allows autistic individuals to thrive in all areas of life. The Ketaki Foundation, dedicated to promoting cultural and social inclusion in Odisha, is aligned with Swabhiman, an organisation long committed to advocating for persons with disabilities. Together, they continue to foster greater understanding and inclusion through exhibitions, publications, and research, contributing to the integration of disabled individuals into society

Opening the session, Dr Sruti Mahapatra, Founder of Swabhiman, emphasized the urgent need to implement inclusive systems that go beyond policy to create real-world change for autistic adults. The discussion was expertly moderated by Gargi Bhattacharya, a disability inclusion advocate with extensive experience in creating spaces for dialogue and change.

Distinguished Panelists:

• Clare Gibellini (Australia): Co-chair of Australia’s National Autism Strategy Oversight Council, Clare advocates for systemic support and equal opportunities for autistic individuals.
• Sraddha Bhattacherjee: Mrs India Nayantara 2021, Sraddha is a renowned public speaker and advocate for diversity and social change, focusing on the power of representation.
• Merry Barua: Director of Action for Autism, Merry has led groundbreaking work in India’s autism advocacy, empowering families and individuals affected by autism.
• Swarna Lata Mishra: Esteemed educator and autism advocate, Prof. Mishra is at the forefront of autism support through her Manage Autism Now (MAN) Trust, providing educational and therapeutic services to children with autism.
• Aparna Goyal: Associate Professor at IHBAS, Dr. Goyal specializes in child psychiatry and mental health, with a focus on initiatives promoting mental well-being among children and adolescents.

The panellists stressed the importance of accessible education, community support, and inclusive policies in empowering autistic adults to live fulfilling lives. Their call for continued advocacy, societal awareness, and the active involvement of all stakeholders highlighted the need for a society where individuals, regardless of ability, can thrive.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Mahapatra reaffirmed the mission of both the Ketaki Foundation and Swabhiman to dismantle barriers and create spaces where all individuals, irrespective of their abilities, are empowered to flourish.

Merry Barua shares her heartfelt experiences with her autistic colleagues and child, highlighting how her groundbreaking work has brought meaningful change to society.

Dr. Sruti Mahapatra, joined by panellists Mary Barua, Swarna Lata Mishra, Sraddha Bhattacherjee, moderator Gargi Bhattacharjee, and KFT trustees Jyoti Ranjan Swain and Rabindra K. Swain, led a compelling and insightful discussion.