A Reflection on MSSI National Youth Wing’s International Youth Day 2025 Webinar
On August 10th, 2025, the National Youth Wing of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) brought together lived experiences, professional insights, and youth energy to celebrate International Youth Day. The theme – Accessibility: Removing Barriers and Creating Possibilities – reflected not only a global conversation but also the daily realities of people living with disabilities in India.
Accessibility is a Right, Not an Add-On
The session began with Kameshwari Rao (Google accessibility professional), who reminded us that accessibility cannot be an afterthought. Using her own journey as a visually impaired professional, she dismantled common misconceptions: accessibility benefits everyone – from seniors to accident survivors to parents carrying children. She emphasised weaving accessibility into design from the ground up, not “fixing” it at the end.
Fighting Barriers, Creating Pathways
From the world of technology to the world of architecture, Ar. Kavya Poornima Balajepalli shared how losing her eyesight while in architecture college thrust her into systemic barriers. Initially denied admission post-disability, she fought against exclusion and went on to complete her degree. Today, through her work with Poornamidam and IIH Warriors India, she influences architectural education, policy, and public campaigns.
Her advocacy has led to milestones like mandatory accessibility training for Indian architects and influencing international Blue Flag beach policies. Kavya’s message was clear – policy advocacy and grassroots action must go hand in hand.
Everyday Accessibility Gaps
Amit Pallath from Ahmedabad, living with Multiple Sclerosis, echoed the lived realities of countless Indians – unsafe railings, inaccessible toilets, and missing ramps even in “modern” public spaces. His accessibility audits reveal a truth we often overlook: infrastructure failure excludes people daily. His call for sturdy railings, functional ramps, and proper washrooms was a reminder that accessibility starts with basics.
Youth Power in Action
Senior members like Renuka Malaker and Bipasha Gupta reinforced the need for sustained local action, while Jyothi Nair closed with a strong reminder: accessibility is about respect and equal opportunity.
The session left participants with a powerful message – true inclusion requires awareness, design thinking, policy advocacy, and most importantly, action.
As MSSI Youth Wing looks ahead, the commitment is clear: mobilise youth, amplify voices, and push for a future where accessibility isn’t charity or compliance, but the foundation of how society is built.
