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Navigate the modern workplace, explore career journeys, get actionable advice & tips. Personal stories, community wisdom. Work View More 7 tips for reinventing your career after your neurodivergence discovery From unmasking at work to exploring new passions, here's how to navigate your new path 1 August 2024 5-min read View More Fund women AI founders NOW With deepfakes becoming a global threat, founders call for an increase in funding to women-led AI companies 23 July 2024 5-min read View More Musk's controversial claim: DEI hiring responsible for IT outage Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company 21 July 2024 1-min read View More NYPD swears in one of its first deaf interns Heriberto Almonte, resident of Brooklyn, will assist officers with outreach & engagement efforts 14 July 2024 1-min read View More Delhi High Court welcomes neurodivergent run cafe Newly opened Sagar Express will empower neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment 7 July 2024 2-min read View More The MEI vs DEI debate: Is this a step back for inclusion Tech leaders push for merit-based policies, but at what cost to diversity and innovation? 30 June 2024 4-min read View More Disabled job seekers disadvantaged by AI bias in hiring Recent study reveals how AI ranks resumes with disability-related credentials lower 23 June 2024 5-min read View More Hybrid work: game changer for neurodivergent and disabled folx Hybrid work - a long overdue accommodation need. 25 May 2024 5-min read < Back Load more

Thomas Dambo has built over 150 trolls using garbage to remind us what’s worth protecting < Back Climate, News This artist’s recycled trash sculptures help people reconnect with nature Thomas Dambo has built over 150 trolls using garbage to remind us what’s worth protecting MMS Staff 22 Apr 2025 3-min read In a world overwhelmed by waste and increasingly detached from the natural world, a tribe of towering wooden trolls is quietly reshaping how people think about trash and the planet. Their creator is a Danish artist with a deep love for stories, recycling, and the magic of the forest. Thomas Dambo, a self-described “garbage artist,” has built over 150 troll sculptures across the globe, from Puerto Rico’s coastlines to South Korea’s forests. His work blends sustainability, folklore, and public art into a striking new genre of environmental storytelling. As climate anxiety rises and natural spaces disappear, Dambo’s whimsical creatures are doing something few public campaigns have managed: pulling humans away from their screens and back into the wild. Building giants from what the world throws away Each troll is made almost entirely from reclaimed materials that include shipping pallets, fallen branches, construction debris, and lumber yard scraps. These aren’t modest pieces; Dambo’s trolls are colossal: many stretch over 30 feet tall, with arms the length of trucks and feet the size of bathtubs. And yet, despite their scale, they carry a quiet intimacy. They blend into the trees. They crouch behind bushes. They invite people to look up, to explore, to wonder. “It’s an advertising campaign for trash,” Dambo once said. “If people thought recycling was cool, we’d be less wasteful.” His most recent installation in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota features five trolls built in collaboration with the local nonprofit Project 412. The group commissioned the project to not only boost tourism but also spark a deeper sense of environmental connection within the community. Already, the “troll effect” — a term coined to describe the dramatic uptick in footfall wherever Dambo’s trolls appear — is in motion. In Coastal Maine, where five of Dambo’s trolls arrived at the botanical gardens in 2021, annual visitors jumped from 100,000 to over 340,000. The increase in visitors directly enabled the gardens to invest more heavily in local conservation efforts, particularly in protecting native trees. “We were hardly doing any of that before the trolls arrived,” said Gretchen Ostherr, CEO of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. A global movement rooted in local magic Each troll is part sculpture, part story. Dambo writes fairy tales for each of his creations, giving them names like Ronny Funny Face or Barefoot Frida, and often weaving them into local histories, landscapes, and myths. In Puerto Rico, one of his earliest trolls — Hector the Protector — stood guard by the sea until Hurricane Maria tore him down. In 2019, Dambo returned to rebuild Hector, this time with a lantern in his hand to guide boats in a storm. But not all trolls have lived happily ever after. In Breckenridge, Colorado, a troll named Isak Heartstone had to be removed after overwhelming crowds and parking troubles strained the local infrastructure. Isak was later rebuilt on a more accessible trail, a reminder that even the most well-meaning public art must navigate the complicated relationship between access, preservation, and scale. And that, in many ways, is what Dambo’s trolls are about: complexity. They are gentle giants, yes, but they’re also quiet provocateurs, challenging our consumption patterns, our ideas about art, and our role in nature. Why this matters on Earth Day — and every day The global climate crisis isn’t just about emissions or melting ice caps. It’s also about disconnection. People cannot protect what they don’t love, and they can’t love what they no longer see or understand. In a time of digital overload and environmental detachment, Dambo’s trolls function like mythological messengers, bringing play, purpose, and pause back into the landscape. They offer a simple but urgent message: trash isn’t worthless. Nature isn’t optional. And wonder may be one of the most powerful tools we have in the fight for the planet. As the world marks another Earth Day, Dambo’s work is a poignant reminder that sustainability isn’t always about sacrifice. Sometimes, it’s about imagination. And sometimes, the path back to nature begins not with facts or fear, but with a troll. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Explore diverse stories about disability experiences. Find support and resources. Personal stories, community wisdom. Disability View More India isn’t built for the Disabled — DY Chandrachud Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people 19 April 2025 3-min read View More This woman makes toys that help kids with disabilities feel less alone From birthmarks to prosthetics, these dolls celebrate what makes each child unique 17 April 2025 4-min read View More The heartbreaking reality of budget allocation for disability in India Another year, another budget, another disappointment for India’s 80+ million disabled folx 2 February 2025 3-min read View More Holiday movies & shows with disability portrayal you must watch Here's your list of heartwarming tales of inclusion for the holidays 26 December 2024 3-min read View More New LEGO characters aim to represent hidden disabilities such as autism Sunflower lanyard-wearing characters signal a powerful step towards inclusion in toymaker’s universe 11 December 2024 3-min read View More These moms have built a friendship app for disabled people & their caregivers Seeing their children struggle with loneliness, Gopika Kapoor & Moneisha Gandhi launched Buddy Up 15 October 2024 12-min read View More Supreme Court of India drops guide to respectful disability language Chief Justice DY Chandrachud is challenging stereotypes to build an inclusive society 3 October 2024 2-min read View More Coldplay tours setting the Gold standard for disability inclusion The India leg of the band’s ongoing Music of the Spheres Tour will spotlight accessibility 22 September 2024 3-min read View More Blind women from India revolutionising early breast cancer detection The Discovering Hands program is a sureshot game changer in breast cancer screening 18 September 2024 4-min read View More Black ballerina with Vitiligo who shattered racial bias dies at 29 Michaela Mabinty DePrince’s fight for inclusion and representation lives on 14 September 2024 2-min read View More Team India’s schedule at the Paralympics 2024 If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy 27 August 2024 9-min read View More Bridgerton: Disability representation reviewed by Aditi Gangrade If you’re a sucker for good representation and haven't watched Bridgerton yet, where have you been 26 August 2024 1-min read < Back Load more

DIscover stories about media representation and inclusion, and support & resources through the power of lived experience. Personal stories, community wisdom. Media View More How fame led Aimee Lou Wood to a life-changing diagnosis The actor shares how ADHD and autistic traits helped explain years of masking 9 April 2025 4-min read View More Holiday movies & shows with disability portrayal you must watch Here's your list of heartwarming tales of inclusion for the holidays 26 December 2024 3-min read View More Disney pulls transgender storyline from Pixar’s ‘Win or Lose’ Trans youth representation: what this means for the industry 19 December 2024 3-min read View More Mattel teams up with Harris Reed to debut first-ever gender-fluid doll The Witch Weaver redefines identity and inclusivity in the toy world 10 December 2024 2-min read View More Mark Ruffalo reveals terrifying dream that turned out to be true The actor reflects on overcoming health challenges just before becoming a father 30 September 2024 2-min read View More Bridgerton: Disability representation reviewed by Aditi Gangrade If you’re a sucker for good representation and haven't watched Bridgerton yet, where have you been 26 August 2024 1-min read View More 7 ways to get things done as an autistic-ADHD adult Here are some executive function strategies that will help you with task initiation and inertia 9 August 2024 2-min read View More Paralympics 2024 campaign challenges perceptions about Paralympians Highlighting nature doesn’t discriminate, the Channel 4 ad appends “They’re so good, considering…” with “Considering What?” 7 August 2024 2-min read View More Geek Girl: Autistic representation reviewed by Aditi Gangrade Based on a book by an autistic author and featuring an autistic actor, the show is a must watch 26 July 2024 3-min read View More Remembering Chester Bennington: 7 years later Fans reflect on the lasting impact of Linkin Park's music and Chester's legacy 20 July 2024 2-min read View More New documentary on issues faced by disabled air travellers Sophie Morgan’s film - Fight to Fly - to come out on Channel 4 July 22 19 July 2024 2-min read View More Blind men in blue to fly to US to impart training to counterparts Four Indian cricketers with visual impairment will travel to Boston July 24 to train the US Blind Cricket team 18 July 2024 1-min read < Back Load more

Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people < Back Disability, News, Parenting India isn’t built for the Disabled — DY Chandrachud Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people MMS Staff 19 Apr 2025 3-min read When the 50th Chief Justice of India Dr DY Chandrachud recently spoke about his struggle to find an accessible home for his daughters with disabilities, it wasn’t just a personal anecdote, it was a national wake-up call. Speaking at a recent event on disability rights, Chandrachud said, “We have two beautiful daughters who are children with special needs. But every house we go to is just not equipped for a family with disabled members.” Chandrachud, who must vacate his official residence by April 30, shared that his family has been actively searching for a home to rent. But the options, even in India’s capital, are startlingly inaccessible. “We saw a lovely house today,” he said. “But the rooms were at different levels, separated by a step. And the landlord said, ‘I’ll put a wooden ramp,’ not realising that accessibility isn’t just about connecting Level 0 to Level 1. It’s much more.” When the system fails the system The irony is hard to miss. Here is one of the most powerful men in India’s judiciary, someone who has presided over landmark rulings on disability rights, now confronting the very barriers he has spent years trying to dismantle. If Chandrachud and his family are facing these obstacles, what about the millions of Indians with disabilities who lack the same influence, resources, or legal knowledge? A country still not built for disabled people India passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) in 2016. The law mandates accessibility in buildings, transport, communication, and digital services. But implementation has lagged. Budget allocations remain inadequate, and public and private infrastructures alike continue to ignore basic design standards. Where they exist, accessible infrastructure is patchy. Ramps, if present, are often too steep. Elevators are missing or non-functional. Tactile paving is placed in arbitrary directions. Toilets are not usable for wheelchair users. And in most Indian homes, steps at the entrance or inside rooms make independent living nearly impossible. The issue is not a lack of laws but a lack of will, societal understanding, and inclusive design. From the courtroom to the community To be clear, Chandrachud is no stranger to the disability rights movement. As Chief Justice, he delivered the 2017 judgment in the Rajiv Rathod case, directing states to draft comprehensive accessibility plans. He also established the Supreme Court Accessibility Committee in 2022, and released the Supreme Court’s Disability Handbook in 2023, guiding judges on disability-inclusive jurisprudence. At the event, he emphasised that law alone is not enough. “Courts can only go so far,” he said. “There must be incentives — like tax benefits — for accessible design. And there should be monetary sanctions, not criminal ones, for non-compliance.” He also addressed the need for empathy-led judiciary reforms, supporting the idea of benches that understand disability rights, even if not exclusively dedicated to them. Who designs for whom? India’s cities — its homes, schools, airports, parks, courts, and buses — are largely designed for the non-disabled. For the 26.8 million disabled people in India (as per Census 2011, though estimates are likely much higher), the world outside is often a series of closed doors. And while accessibility is often painted as a “special need,” it is, in fact, a universal need. An elderly person recovering from surgery, a parent pushing a stroller, a delivery worker carrying heavy loads... everyone benefits from barrier-free design. A moment of reckoning That it took a former Chief Justice’s personal housing struggle to reignite this conversation says something about the invisibilisation of disabled voices in public discourse. The path forward Chandrachud concluded with a note of quiet urgency: “Disability law cuts across the whole of society. It’s not like insolvency law, which requires niche expertise. What it requires is understanding and design that respects dignity.” Until then, the former Chief Justice — and millions of disabled Indians — will keep encountering steps where there should have been bridges. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

June is Aphasia awareness month. Here’s a guide to living with aphasia < Back Health, Disability What is Aphasia - An inclusive guide to understanding the condition June is Aphasia awareness month. Here’s a guide to living with aphasia MMS Staff 3 Jun 2024 4-min read June, recognized globally as Aphasia Awareness Month, presents an opportunity to delve deep into this communication disorder. Aphasia affects a person's ability to communicate but does not impair their intelligence. This guide aims to enhance understanding of aphasia, share insights from those directly affected, and offer supportive measures for those looking to help. What is aphasia? Aphasia is a condition resulting from damage to the language-processing regions of the brain, leading to varying degrees of difficulty in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. It can be triggered by strokes, head injuries, tumors, or progressive neurological disorders. Types of Aphasia Aphasia is classified into several types, each affecting different aspects of communication: Broca’s Aphasia: Characterized by slow, halting speech and difficulties in forming sentences, though comprehension might remain intact. Wernicke’s Aphasia: Where individuals might speak in long sentences that lack meaning, and comprehension is often impaired. Global Aphasia: The most severe form, combining extensive speaking and understanding difficulties . Primary progressive Aphasia: Gradual loss of language capabilities associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Related conditions Aphasia often coexists with other speech-related disorders, highlighting the complexity of brain-based communication issues: Dysarthria: Difficulty in articulating words due to weakened muscles. Apraxia: Inability to perform learned movements despite the desire and physical capability to perform them. Signs and symptoms of Aphasia Recognizing the signs of aphasia can help in seeking timely intervention. Common symptoms include: Impaired speech: Difficulty in articulating words, using incorrect words, or constructing sentences that sound different or difficult to comprehend. Understanding difficulties: Trouble comprehending spoken conversations or written text. Repetition challenges: Struggling to repeat phrases or words, often producing unintended sequences. Naming problems: Difficulty in naming objects, known as anomia, which is often frustrating for the individual. Social withdrawal: Due to communication challenges, individuals may withdraw from social interactions to avoid embarrassment or frustration. Diagnosis of Aphasia Diagnosing aphasia involves a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals, often including: Physical exams and cognitive tests: To rule out other causes of communication issues. Imaging tests: Such as MRI and CT scans to identify brain damage. Speech-language evaluations: To determine the type and extent of language impairment. Lived experiences The journey of living with aphasia is unique for each person. Many describe the profound frustration and isolation they feel when they cannot communicate their thoughts or understand what others are saying. Participation in social gatherings can become daunting, and professional lives can be severely disrupted. Community forums and blogs often highlight the emotional and psychological toll aphasia can take, underscoring the importance of empathy and understanding from everyone around. "I've noticed issues with my communication since I was 14 — mixing up sentences or saying unintended words. It's become more pronounced now, and it makes me hesitant to speak out of embarrassment,” a Reddit user shares. "Having lived with aphasia since childhood, it became starkly apparent when I started speaking gibberish during a professional call. It took years and a severe incident to begin researching my condition earnestly," says another Reddit user. How common is Aphasia? Globally, millions are affected by Aphasia, though exact prevalence is hard to pinpoint due to varying degrees and causes. It's most commonly associated with middle-aged and older individuals, particularly those who have experienced a stroke. How to support someone with Aphasia Effective communication with a person with aphasia requires patience and creativity: Patience in conversation: Allow individuals with aphasia the time they need to express themselves without interrupting or correcting them. Use of visual aids: Visual aids such as pictures, gestures, and writing can help facilitate better understanding. Consistent engagement: Regular conversation, even if challenging, helps people with aphasia retain their communication skills and feel valued. Adaptation of communication style: Speak in simple, concise sentences and confirm understanding to ensure clarity in communication. Encouragement of social interaction: Encourage their involvement in social activities to prevent isolation and promote mental health. Professional support: Speech and language therapy can greatly benefit those with aphasia. Therapists use specialized techniques to help improve language skills and recommend communication strategies tailored to individual needs. Support groups: Both online and in-person to share experiences and coping strategies. Community and technology support Technology, too, plays a crucial role, with various apps and software designed to assist communication. Community support groups, both online and offline, provide essential emotional support and practical advice for living with aphasia. Management and treatment While there is no cure for aphasia, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving communication: Speech therapy: Helps regain language skills and learn new ways to communicate.| Medications and surgery: For underlying causes like strokes or tumors. Family involvement: Educating loved ones on effective communication strategies. Conclusion Aphasia, while challenging, does not define a person’s intellect or potential. With proper support, understanding, and medical attention, individuals with aphasia can continue to lead fulfilling lives. Disclaimer: This article is intended for general awareness and understanding only. It is not written by medical professionals and should not be considered as medical advice. For professional diagnosis or treatment, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. < Back Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Health Living with Dyslexia: My journey as a dyslexic lesbian author in India In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. K Vaishali 31 May 2024 5-min read I’m K Vaishali, the author of 'Homeless: Growing Up, Lesbian and Dyslexic in India.' My journey has been filled with challenges, many of which stem from being diagnosed late with dyslexia and dysgraphia at the age of 20. This diagnosis came after years of struggling to understand why I found certain tasks so difficult. What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a common learning disorder characterized by difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. It affects the brain's ability to process written and spoken language, making it challenging for individuals to decode words and comprehend text. Dysgraphia, often associated with dyslexia, involves difficulties with handwriting and fine motor skills. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, approximately 10-15% of the population is affected by dyslexia, though many remain undiagnosed. My first memory of struggling with dyslexia dates back to the fourth standard when I received very low marks in a math exam. I had left many questions half-answered, a common issue for dyslexic students who may not realize they haven’t finished their tasks. Repeated spelling mistakes, such as writing "cost" as "coast," were frequent and often led to harsh reprimands from teachers and adults who thought I wasn’t trying hard enough. Tasks that were simple for others, like tying shoelaces or fastening my school tie, were huge challenges for me. I often got into trouble at school for these issues, which made me feel even more inadequate and frustrated. A particularly difficult period was in the seventh standard when my family moved from Chennai to Bombay. I had to switch from Tamil to Hindi as my second language. For a dyslexic person, learning multiple scripts—Tamil, English, and Hindi—was incredibly challenging. Tamil and Hindi, being completely different scripts, made this transition even harder. I remember attending tuition classes where my teacher would give me a second standard Hindi textbook. Struggling to read, I would underline long words and ask for their meanings, not realizing that underlining a character’s name was puzzling to my teacher. My undiagnosed dyslexia led to repeated academic failures. I flunked the seventh standard and had to repeat the year. Eventually, I switched to Sanskrit, which started from the basics and allowed me to pass. Myths and misconceptions Dyslexic individuals often face numerous myths and misconceptions, such as: Myth: Dyslexia is a sign of low intelligence. Reality: Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess high creativity and problem-solving skills. Myth: Dyslexic people are lazy or not trying hard enough. Reality: Dyslexic individuals often work harder than their peers to achieve the same level of understanding and proficiency. Myth: Dyslexia can be outgrown. Reality: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can successfully manage its challenges. Despite these challenges, adult life brought its own set of difficulties. I couldn’t complete my bachelor’s degree and struggled with various professional courses. I worked as an auditor but constantly mixed up numbers in balance sheets, a mistake that is unacceptable in that profession. Realizing that accountancy was not for me, I attempted a master’s in economics, only to discover that my difficulties with graphs and numbers persisted. It was only when I pursued a degree in communication that I found a path I could navigate. Writing became my outlet, and I authored my book. My journey has been isolating, with school being an especially unsafe space. Teachers misinterpreted my struggles as an attitude problem, and my dyslexia led to an eating disorder, causing anxiety before exams. I would binge eat months before exams, leading to weight gain and further bullying at school. Eating disorder involve complex relationships with food and body image, often manifesting as behaviors like binge eating, strict dieting, or purging. These are serious mental health conditions that require compassionate understanding and support. They can significantly impact physical health and emotional well-being, but with the right help, recovery is possible. In addition to my struggles with dyslexia, being a lesbian added another layer of complexity. Growing up, I felt different from my friends. They were attracted to boys, and because I wasn’t, I felt isolated. This feeling of not fitting in anywhere severely affected my self-esteem. I masked my true self for years, trying to conform to societal expectations, which brought me no happiness. Now, as an adult, I am more comfortable with my identity. I understand what dyslexia entails and seek help when needed, using various tools to perform my job well. Setting realistic expectations for myself has been a significant step. I often remind myself that just because others can do something doesn’t mean I have to do it the same way. I have learned to embrace my differences, focusing on my strengths rather than my limitations. In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, many children go undiagnosed, and there is a lack of support in schools. It's important for educators and parents to recognize the signs of dyslexia early and provide the necessary support. Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess remarkable creativity and problem-solving skills. Supporting dyslexic individuals Support for dyslexic children and adults can significantly improve their quality of life and academic performance. Effective strategies include: Early diagnosis and intervention: Early identification of dyslexia allows for timely support and accommodations, reducing frustration and academic struggles. Tailored education plans: Individualized education programs (IEPs) can address specific learning needs and incorporate tools such as extra time for tests and the use of assistive technology. Multisensory teaching methods: Techniques that engage multiple senses can enhance learning and retention for dyslexic students. Positive reinforcement: Encouragement and recognition of effort and achievements can boost self-esteem and motivation. Mental health support: Access to counseling and mental health services can help manage the emotional impact of dyslexia and related conditions like anxiety and eating disorders. Buy K Vaishali's book here: https://amzn.in/d/5owZNiu Follow K Vaishali on socials: Instagram X (Twitter) LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy < Back Disability, News Team India’s schedule at the Paralympics 2024 If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy MMS Staff 27 Aug 2024 9-min read Get ready to cheer for Team India at the Paris Paralympics 2024! If you're excited to follow every thrilling moment, we've got you covered with the full schedule—perfect for keeping track of when to tune in and support our incredible athletes. August 30 13:30 - Women’s Discus Throw F55 Final - Karam Jyoti, Sakshi Kasana 14:00 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 - Preethi Pal 16:39 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 Final - Preethi Pal* 00:20 - Men’s Shot Put F37 Final - Manu August 31 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F57 Final - Parveen Kumar September 1 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Round 1 - Rakshitha Raju 15:09 - Men’s Shot Put F40 Final - Ravi Rongali 22:58 - Men’s High Jump T47 Final - Ram Pal, Nishad Kumar 23:08 - Women’s 200m T35 Final - Preethi Pal September 2 13:35 - Men’s Discus Throw F56 Final - Yogesh Kathuniya 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Final - Rakshitha Raju* 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F64 Final - Sumit Antil, Sandeep, Sandip Sanjay Sargar 22:34 - Women’s Discus Throw F53 Final - Kanchan Lakhani 23:50 - Women’s 400m T20 Round 1 - Deepthi Jeevanji 00:10 - Men’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Ajeet Singh, Rinku, Sundar Singh Gurjar September 3 14:26 - Women’s Shot Put F34 Final - Bhagyashri Madhavrao Jadhav 22:38 - Women’s 400m T20 Final - Deepthi Jeevanji* 23:40 - Men’s High Jump T63 Final - Mariyappan Thangavelu, Shailesh Kumar, Sharad Kumar September 4 13:35 - Men’s Shot Put F46 Final - Sachin Sarjerao Khilari, Mohd. Yasser, Rohit Kumar 15:16 - Women’s Shot Put F46 Final - Amisha Rawat 22:50 - Men’s Club Throw F51 Final - Dharambir, Amit Kumar, Pranav Soorma 23:00 - Women’s 100m T12 Round 1 - Simran September 5 15:10 - Women’s 100m T12 Semifinal - Simran* 22:47 - Women’s 100m T12 Final - Simran* 23:49 - Men’s Shot Put F35 - Arvind September 6 13:39 - Women’s 200m T12 Round 1 - Simran 14:08 - Men’s Javelin Throw F54 - Dipesh Kumar 14:47 - Men’s 400m T47 Round 1 - Dilip Mahadu Gavit 15:18 - Men’s High Jump T64 Final - Praveen Kumar 22:30 - Men’s Shot Put F57 Final - Soman Rana, Hokato Hotozhe Sema 22:48 - Women’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Bhavanaben Ajabaji Chaudhary 23:10 - Women’s 200m T12 Semifinal - Simran* September 7 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F41 Final- Navdeep 23:03 - Women’s 200m T12 Final - Simran* 00:29 - Men’s 400m T47 Final - Dilip Mahadu Gavit* Para Judo Indian schedule September 5 13:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Preliminary Rounds 13:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Preliminary Rounds 19:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Final Block* 19:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Final Block* Para Rowing Indian schedule August 30 15:00 - PR3 Mixed Doubles Sculls Heats August 31 14:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Repechages * September 1 14:00 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final B (to determine position) 15:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final A (medal match) Para archery Indian schedule August 29 16:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Sheetal Devi (ST category), Sarita (W2 category) 16:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Harvinder Singh (ST category) 20:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Rakesh Kumar (W2 category), Shyam Sundar Swami (ST category) 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Pooja (ST category) August 30 12:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination August 31 19:00 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 1 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 2 19:00 - Mixed Team Compound Open 1/8 elimination 20:20 - Mixed Team Compound Open Quarterfinal* 21:40 - Mixed Team Compound Open Semifinal* 22:35 - Mixed Team Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:55 - Mixed Team Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 3 12:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination* 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 21:18 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:27 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:44 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 4 12:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination round* 21:00 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 22:08 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:54 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:14 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 5 13:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open 1/8 elimination 18:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 19:50 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Semifinal* 20:45 - Mixed Team Recurve Bronze Medal Match* 21:05 - Mixed Team Recurve Gold Medal Match* Para Shooting Indian schedule August 30 12:30 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 14:45 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:15 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* 17:00 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 17:30 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal* 19:45 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* August 31 13:00 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar 15:30 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Rubina Francis 15:45 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar* 18:15 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Rubina Francis* September 1 13:00 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu 15:00 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 16:30 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu* 18:30 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* September 2 12:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Precision Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 16:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Rapid Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 20:15 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Final - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh* September 3 13:00 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 19:30 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* September 4 13:00 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Qualification - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:45 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Final - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal* September 5 13:00 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu 15:15 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu* Indian Paracanoe Athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 6 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats 13:50 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Heats 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats September 7 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Semifinal* 13:58 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Semifinal* 14:50 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Final A (Medal Round)* 15:14 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final B* 15:22 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final A(Medal Round)* September 8 13:30 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Semifinal* 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Final A* Para Taekwondo Indian schedule August 29 13:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Round of 16 15:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Quarterfinals* 20:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Repechage* 21:34 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Semifinal* 22:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Bronze Medal Contests* August 30 00:04 - Women K44-47 kg Gold Medal Contest* Indian Para Powerlifters at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 4 15:30 - Men’s up to 49kg (Medal Round) 20:30 - Women’s up to 45kg (Medal Round) September 5 22:05 - Men’s up to 65kg (Medal Round) September 6 20:30 - Women’s up to 67 kg (Medal Round) The 17th edition of the Summer Paralympics will take place in Paris, France, from August 28 to September 8 this year. There will be 549 events in 22 sports. Full schedule Event Date Opening Ceremony August 28 Blind Football September 1-7 Boccia August 29 - September 5 Goalball August 29 - September 5 Para Archery August 29 - September 5 Para Athletics August 30 - September 8 Para Badminton August 29 - September 2 Para Canoe September 6-8 Para Cycling Road September 4-7 Para Cycling Track August 29 - September 1 Para Equestrian September 2-7 Para Judo September 5-7 Para Powerlifting September 4-8 Para Rowing August 30 - September 1 Para Swimming August 29 - September 7 Para Table Tennis August 29 - September 7 Para Taekwondo August 29-31 Para Triathlon September 1-2 Shooting Para Sport August 30 - September 5 Sitting Volleyball August 29 - September 7 Wheelchair Basketball August 29 - September 8 Wheelchair Fencing September 3-7 Wheelchair Rugby August 29 - September 2 Wheelchair Tennis August 30 - September 7 Closing Ceremony September 8 *Denotes subject to qualification Much much relate? 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Exposing the flaws in beauty standards, Aastha Shah responds to trolls on her Instagram < Back Health, Gender, News How this Indian creator responded to bullies trolling her for having vitiligo Exposing the flaws in beauty standards, Aastha Shah responds to trolls on her Instagram MMS Staff 25 Jun 2024 4-minute read Aastha Shah, an Indian content creator and vitiligo self-advocate, is using her platform to address the bullying and ostracisation faced by individuals with vitiligo. Today, on World Vitiligo Day, she shared her experiences on her Instagram and emphasised the need for greater awareness and acceptance of this skin condition. Responding to ableist trolls In one of her recent social media posts, Aastha Shah addressed the daily trolling she endures because she looks different owing to her skin condition. Her message was both a celebration of her Vitiligo pride and a message to her trolls and bullies. "Happy World Vitiligo Day Today we celebrate the uniqueness of our beautiful skin as an entire community. Vitiligo is beautiful in every way. This is just 1% of the people making fun of my family and me on a daily basis. The reason I am putting this out there is because vitiligo can affect people psychologically and the least the society can do is not troll us. For all the ones who have vitiligo, my message to you is that let the world put you down and make you feel different, just remember to thrash the stereotype and work towards your dreams because you’re unstoppable👩🏻🤝👨🏾," Shah shared. Addressing misconceptions Shah frequently encounters comments accusing her of seeking sympathy or playing the victim card. She uses these moments to educate others about Vitiligo. “I get a lot of comments about gaining sympathy, playing the victim card, making vitiligo my personality and the fact that I could hide it from the world because I have vitiligo all over my body. First of all, I don’t want sympathy, I want to raise awareness about this skin condition because we have a lot of uneducated people in this world. Secondly, I proudly wear my skin, and thirdly, I want the world to know about it so that even if one person gets inspired, it will make me happy.” The reality of living with vitiligo Vitiligo, as Shah explains, is a skin condition caused by the loss of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin colour. It begins with patches and can spread across the body. Shah has non-segmental vitiligo, which symmetrically appears on both sides of her body. Importantly, it does not affect any internal organs. “Vitiligo is a skin condition which is caused when the melanocytes (cells which give colour to your skin) stop functioning. It appears in patches initially and can eventually spread throughout your body. I have non-segmental vitiligo which symmetrically appears on both sides of the body. It does not affect any organ internally. It’s an autoimmune skin condition and not a skin disease. There is no scientific cure for vitiligo. Now let me celebrate my day happily” Providing support and encouragement When she first shared her story online, Shah received numerous messages from other people with similar lived experiences who were in unsupportive environments. Many expressed feelings of depression and even had s*icidal thoughts because of their vitiligo. Aastha responded to them with compassion and support. “Many parents abandon their children or try to cure their vitiligo using harmful methods. There is no scientifically proven cure for vitiligo. I was disheartened reading such messages and tried to help most of them by talking to them and supporting them.” Myths and facts about vitiligo Myth: Vitiligo is contagious. Fact: Vitiligo is not contagious. It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the pigment cells in the skin leading to the skin losing its colour. Myth: Vitiligo only affects the skin. Fact: While vitiligo primarily affects the skin, it can also impact hair and the inside of the mouth. It does not affect internal organs. Myth: Vitiligo can be cured with certain treatments. Fact: There is no scientifically proven cure for vitiligo. Treatments can help manage the condition but cannot completely cure it. Aastha’s posts frequently attract numerous hurtful comments from trolls, revealing the cruelty and ableism that persist in society. This highlights the shallow nature of beauty norms and the deep-seated ableism, racism, and sexism prevalent among Indian trolls. It also underscores the dire need for improved health awareness in India. Ableism, sexism, and harmful beauty norms perpetuate discrimination and exclusion in society. Ableism marginalises individuals with disabilities, denying them equal opportunities and respect. Sexism enforces gender stereotypes, limiting people's potential based on their gender. Harmful beauty norms create unrealistic standards, fostering judgement and alienation for those who do not conform. Together, these attitudes contribute to a culture of intolerance and inequality. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company < Back Work, News Musk's controversial claim: DEI hiring responsible for IT outage Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company MMS Staff 21 Jul 2024 1-min read While much of the world was reeling from the global IT outage over Thursday and Friday, X CEO Elon Musk did not miss a chance to use the opportunity to take yet another potshot at DEI hiring. American cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which provides cloud workload protection and endpoint security, threat intelligence, and cyberattack response services, was responsible for one of the biggest IT outages in history on Friday, affecting 8.5 million Windows devices, when an update to one of its applications, Falcon, went live with a coding error built in. CrowdStrike has raised millions in funding from Silicon Valley, employs thousands from around the globe, and reportedly services 538 out of the Fortune 1000 companies. Plus they're also big on DEI hiring. CrowdStrike is a Gold Partner of Bright Network's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging panel. Bright Network, a media tech platform, connects graduates from various backgrounds with suitable employers. And as part of this partnership, CrowdStrike says they're committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace. On Friday, following news about the outage, Elon Musk replied to a 2-year-old tweet by CrowdStrike about their association with Bright Network. In it, he simply said: "Not very 'bright' right now, is it?" The replies to his tweet, too, were largely in support of his skewed stance on the matter. DEI initiatives at various US-based companies have recently seen a pushback from upper management, with Tesla reportedly dropping language referencing diversity from its annual shareholder report earlier this year. Microsoft, too, recently laid off a team that was devoted to diversity, equity & inclusion. Shortly after that, tractor company John Deere announced they would do away with nearly all their DEI policies in favour of a quality-based workplace. Other companies who have recently either completely eliminated or reduced the size of their DEI teams include Zoom, Snap, Google, and Meta. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS