Bubbles centre in Bengaluru is seen as a real change-maker for kids with autism

When Sarbani Mallick founded Biswagouri Charitable Trust in 2009, she was determined to reach out to disabled children in as many ways as possible.

The two programmes she initiated, Bubbles Autism Centre and Pragathi Towards Livelihood aim to do just that. Both centres, located in Bengalurureach out to children with autism.

Mallick has been reaching out to disabled children for over 20 years now. She was inspired by her mentor, who had a child with autism and reached out to children with disabilities. Mallik would volunteer with her.

Initially, I was a freelancer. But I soon realised that working for disabled children was my true calling. I wanted to start a formal organization. That is how Biswajyothi was founded. My brother had a disability. But I never knew about it. Rather, I did not have awareness. So when I studied more about disabilities, I could connect more with it. In fact, I knew that my brother had a disability after completing my course! In the course of time, I met many new people. I realised that very few work was being done for disabled children. Everything fell at the right place and at the right time. I am glad Biswagouri can help many disabled children. – Sarbani Mallick, Founder, Biswagouri Charitable Trust

At the centre, the faculty and students believe in enjoying life to the fullest. There is not one dull moment here. Children and teenagers are always engaged in some work or the other. Apart from vocational skills, they have parent empowerment programmes, outings with families and life skill training programmes to name a few.

They also collaborate with schools in Bengaluru to promote the buddy programme where children from the two centres get to hang out with kids from mainstream schools. Everyone learns something new and forges strong connections.

Recently the two centres celebrated Navratri with much fanfare with dandiya raas, and great food.

Smrithi Rajesh, a special educator at Bubbles, has a son who is enrolled at the centre.

This centre has helped improve the quality of life of my son, Adwaith. He was denied admission at all special schools and only Bubbles was ready to take him in. This centre has given him better exposure as well,” says Smrithi.

Truly a centre that opens its heart to all children.

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