For my DAP experience, I chose to volunteer at the Down Syndrome Federation of India in Chennai. Before going there, I never thought I would be able to communicate and contribute to children with disability. I thought I was incapable of such profound interaction.

But the experience was one of a kind- it broadened my view about empathy, patience, and different life experiences. So many factors are connected while raising children with disability - compassion, strength, physical and emotional health, and beyond all this education to provide a meaningful life.

Education has different meanings; here it is skill development for empowerment. Volunteers and staff at the foundation taught vocational skills such as baking and weaving, along with focusing on reading and writing, hoping to get them admitted in regular schools some day. My journey in the space of education started back then.

Overall, the experience of volunteering, capturing moments, meeting beautiful people, and witnessing different life stories, was one of the most enlightening and meaningful experiences I have had. Developmental Activities Program is unique to FLAME, and if done right, is the most important step for any student at the age of 18-19. I’m grateful for it and I hope others have a profound journey with it too.