In India, many parents watch their children struggle in classrooms that fail to meet their needs, leaving them confused and unsupported. The lack of awareness surrounding special education, compounded by societal stigma, makes it difficult for families to find proper resources. In response to this, Yashwardhini Chauhan founded Colours of Hope, a Special Education Needs Centre that provides tailored support for children. Through partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups, she champions inclusivity and works to destigmatize special education. By supporting both children and their caregivers, Yashwardhini is transforming lives, fostering an inclusive society where every child can thrive.
Yashwardhini Chauhan’s journey to establish Colours of Hope arose from her experiences as a school counselor, where she saw the overwhelming demand for support surpass available resources. Observing children misdiagnosed due to a lack of understanding of sensory and social challenges, she founded the Centre in 2018 to provide a strength-based approach. Emphasizing individualized programs, Yashwardhini advocates for inclusivity and a shift from traditional medical models to a strength-based perspective. Her dedication to promoting neurodiversity, fostering a nurturing environment, and advocating for systemic changes in education has transformed the lives of children and their families, championing the right to thrive.
Inspired by the Navaratri festival, Yashwardhini reflects on the Indian tradition that views women as embodiments of ‘Shakti,’ the divine energy essential in supporting children with special needs. She observes that mothers, who make up ninety-nine percent of advocates, are naturally positioned for leadership in this field. Yashwardhini stresses the importance of proper training, combining theoretical knowledge in psychology and special education with practical experience. She believes women’s empathy and multitasking abilities make them uniquely qualified for leadership roles. Through campaigns like Build Awareness, Break Taboo, she aims to foster a compassionate, inclusive environment for children and educators alike.
Recognized by The Education View as Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Women Leaders in India in 2024-25, Yashwardhini Chauhan’s unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of children with special needs through Colours of Hope reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and understanding.
