Down Syndrome Awareness Day

March 21 marks an important day in our Calendar – World Down Syndrome Day. This day serves as a global awareness campaign aimed at promoting the rights, inclusion, and wellbeing of individuals with Down syndrome. By rallying together, we can build an inclusive society that celebrates differences, fosters acceptance, and advocate for equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. This War on stigmas and stereotypes is a collective effort. The role of community members—parents, educators, local business, and policymakers—cannot be overstated. Each of us has the power to influence perceptions and create an ecosystem that promotes understanding and support. Whether it’s volunteering at the centre, participating in workshops, or simply spreading awareness about Down syndrome, every action counts.

In Pune, Maharashtra State, we have a beacon of hope and inspiration in the form of a dedicated Centre Tickle your Art led by Shweta Runwal, a remarkable woman whose commitment to empowering children with Down syndrome is nothing short of transformational effort. The Centre was named after her daughter Dhriti’s nickname “Tickle” to celebrate her love for art and to create something to inspire other individuals with unique abilities like Dhriti. As the Managing Director of the centre, Shweta’s personal and professional journey is intricately woven together. She is not just a leader but also a devoted mother to a daughter with Down syndrome. Her experience as a mother have profoundly shaped her understanding of the challenges and joys that come with raising a child with special needs. Shweta has taken this understanding and transformed it into a mission, creating a nurturing environment in which children with Down syndrome can thrive, learn, and develop their full potential. Shweta’s Centre Tickle Your Art, stands as a testament to what passionate leadership can accomplish when combined with a vision for inclusivity.

Here, children are not defined by their limitations; instead, they are celebrated for their unique abilities and extensive potential. At Tickle Your Art, various forms of art is utilised to create articles by Down Syndrome artists, and other intellectual disabilities. This creation is integrated with user-centric design to make high-end lifestyle products like stationery, jewellery, accessories, table ware, home décor and corporate gifting. Every artwork the artists create is accompanied by a narrative about the artist.

While the centre has made significant strides, there is still much work to be done. The need for society to embrace inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome is greater now than ever before. Shweta’s commitment highlights the urgent need for community engagement. This endeavour will also create job opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.