Three Teenagers, One Inclusive Vision
Hyderabad students are creating spaces where children with different learning needs can connect, create and have fun
Three students, aged 17, came together with one common goal — to build an inclusive environment for children with different learning needs and abilities.
After piloting the Inclusive Arts programme at HPS Begumpet’s Dept of Neurodivergent Learning when they were in Grade 11, the three began working with Shankar Foundation and Autism Ability Center the following year, where they have collectively clocked in nearly 300 hours working with 150 unique children through a dedicated volunteer programme that focuses on inclusivity through interactive play, art, craft, music and dance.
Through word of mouth, the trio have successfully created a community of diverse student volunteers from across the city who come together every Saturday to put into practice a world that is truly inclusive.
The founders Akarsha Reddy, Ayaan Alladin and Anish Varma built Inclusive Arts with the shared vision of contributing to a more inclusive society. Today, they have achieved a successful model that integrates neurodivergent individuals through a fun and meaningful student-led structure, creating a positive ripple among educators, parents and students.
Inclusive Arts plans on expanding its reach, working with more partners and volunteers, and continuing to emphasise the importance of a society that is inclusive.