GIVE.DO is in conversation with Sushama Nagarkar, the founder of Yash Charitable Trust, a Mumbai-based organization that came up with an innovative solution to empower adults with neurodivergent disabilities: skills training in the Food & Beverage (F&B) sector to ensure greater access to employment and interaction with individuals on a day-to-day basis to break the stigma people hold toward persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PwIDD). In this interview, Sushama Nagarkar sheds light on neurodivergent disabilities, Yash Charitable Trust’s interventions and how people can learn more about the issue and support the NGO’s remarkable work.
Give.do: Can you tell us what neurodivergent disabilities are?
Sushama Nagarkar: Neurodivergent disabilities refer to differences in the way individuals’ brains function compared to what is considered “neurotypical.” These include a range of conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, and Tourette Syndrome, among others. People with these conditions process information, learn and interact with the world in unique ways, and their abilities and challenges can vary widely. It’s important to recognize and respect these differences while focusing on the strengths and potential each individual brings.
Give.do: There are many highly accomplished people around the world with neurodivergent disabilities. What do the individuals in your care need to accomplish their dreams?
Sushama Nagarkar: The adults we work with need acceptance, understanding and meaningful opportunities to thrive. They require access to skill-building programs, supportive environments and workplaces that appreciate their abilities. Providing them with training, mentorship and ongoing support allows them to gain confidence and independence. It’s also crucial to create awareness in society so that people embrace and include them without bias. When given the right tools and encouragement and support, they can achieve goals that align with their dreams and talents.
Give.do: Café Arpan is a unique initiative that allows people to interact with adults with disabilities. How have these interactions changed people’s perceptions of PwIDD?
Sushama Nagarkar: Café Arpan has been a game-changer in breaking stereotypes. Many visitors come in with preconceived notions about what people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PwIDD) can or cannot do. Watching our team take orders, serve food and manage daily operations confidently often surprises and inspires them. These interactions create a sense of empathy and a deeper understanding of their abilities. Many customers leave with a newfound respect, realizing that PwIDD can contribute meaningfully to society when given the opportunity.
Give.do: Without these opportunities provided by Yash Charitable Trust, what would PwIDD be forced to do with their lives?
Sushama Nagarkar: Unfortunately, without opportunities like those provided by Yash Charitable Trust, many PwIDD face isolation and lack of purpose. They are often confined to exclusionary settings such as sheltered workshops where they do mundane, repetitive tasks leading to boredom and with little room for growth and social interaction with typical peers or they are at home and may be kept busy or isolated by family members. This leads to a significant underutilization of their potential, affecting their confidence and mental health. Programs like ours ensure they lead fulfilling lives, build relationships and contribute to the community meaningfully, rather than stay sidelined by society.
Give.do: Is there a book or documentary film you recommend for people to learn more about this issue?
Sushama Nagarkar: One of the most insightful books is “The Reason I Jump” by Naoki Higashida, a first-hand account of a young boy with autism sharing his experiences. For documentaries, “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution” is a powerful film that captures the broader disability rights movement. Both resources provide an empathetic and enlightening perspective on the lives of people with disabilities and their unique journeys.
Give.do: Can you tell us a story about a particular person with disabilities working at Café Arpan that brings a smile to your face?
Sushama Nagarkar: “A” is a twenty-five year old with autism who joined our team in 2018 soon after Café Arpan was launched. He did his 12th NIOS and then went on to do a one year catering diploma at a nearby college. A is passionate about food and spends his free time watching YouTube videos of Sanjeev Kapoor’s Khana Khazana! “A” is a man of few words and yet is very capable of managing the entire Café Arpan kitchen single handedly. However when asked whether we could find him a job elsewhere where he would earn more, the answer is an emphatic “No!” And when I asked him on one occasion what was it that he liked so much about his work with us, he articulated two words “friends” and “cooking”. He went back to watching Khana Khazana!
Support Yash Charitable Trust
Yash Charitable Trust empowers adults with neurodivergent disabilities and through Arpan Kitchen, Café Arpan and Arpan Bakery, the organization improves the lives of individuals, creates a community and transforms mindsets. To support Yash Charitable Trust in their innovative work:
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Shirley has been in the development sector for over 10 years and is passionate about making a change in the world around her, including adopting dogs and writing to make a difference.
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