Creating Possibilities: The Story of Shristi Special Academy

At the heart of a truly inclusive society lies a simple belief that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves the opportunity to lead a meaningful, independent, and contributory life. 

This belief is what drives Shristi Special Academy, a non-profit dedicated to supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Through structured, compassionate, and highly specialised interventions, Shristi empowers individuals across age groups to realise their fullest potential. 

A Journey Rooted in Purpose 

Shristi’s journey began modestly, in a small two-bedroom home with just three educators and three students. Today, it has grown into a vibrant institution with a team of over 50 professionals supporting nearly 200 students. 

Set on a serene 2-acre campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru, Shristi offers a thoughtfully designed environment that enables learning, therapy, and growth. With over 20,000 square feet of built-up space, the campus houses specialised departments, therapy rooms, and unique infrastructure such as a sensory park and reflexology park, all designed to support holistic development. 

Guiding this journey is a committed leadership team, including Mrs. Suchita Somashekaraiah (Co-Founder and Director), along with Mrs. Gayathri Subhash (Director) and Mr. Venkateswaran K (Director), whose vision and dedication continue to shape Shristi’s impact.

A Holistic Approach to Development 

What sets Shristi apart is its comprehensive, life-stage-based approach. Its programmes are designed not just to educate, but to build independence, confidence, and dignity. 

From early childhood intervention to vocational and on-the-job training, Shristi supports individuals through every stage of life: 

• Early intervention programmes help young children build foundational skills  

• Inclusive preschool initiatives integrate children with and without disabilities, fostering acceptance from a young age  

• Specialised autism and intensive support programmes focus on life skills, communication, and adaptive behaviour  

• Pre-vocational and vocational training prepare individuals for meaningful employment  

• Sheltered workshops provide opportunities to contribute and earn, reinforcing self-worth and independence  

These programmes are backed by a multidisciplinary team of educators, therapists, counsellors, and vocational trainers, ensuring that every individual receives personalised care and attention.  

Empowering Families, Not Just Individuals 

Shristi recognises that the journey of disability extends beyond the individual. It deeply impacts families. 

By actively involving parents in the intervention process, Shristi equips them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support their children. From classroom observations to home-based programmes, families are partners in progress. 

The organisation also conducts workshops, training sessions, and residential courses for parents and professionals, helping build a wider ecosystem of informed and compassionate caregivers.

Extending Impact Beyond the Campus 

Shristi’s work goes far beyond its physical campus. 

Through community-based rehabilitation initiatives, the organisation reaches children in over 100 surrounding villages. It provides home-based therapy, raises awareness, and builds self-help groups. For many families who cannot access institutional support, this outreach becomes a lifeline. 

Medical camps, access to healthcare, assistive devices, and insurance facilitation further ensure that students receive the care they need to thrive. 

Building an Inclusive Society 

Inclusion is not just a programme at Shristi. It is a philosophy. 

By integrating children into mainstream schools wherever possible and encouraging interaction between children with and without disabilities, Shristi fosters empathy, acceptance, and understanding within the broader community. 

Their work is a reminder that inclusion begins with awareness and grows through everyday interactions. 

Recognised Excellence, Enduring Impact 

Over the years, Shristi’s commitment has been recognised through numerous awards, including: 

• Rotary Awards for vocational training excellence  

• State recognition for services in the disability sector  

• Achievements in national-level Special Olympics  

• Honours for leadership in social impact  

Yet, beyond awards, the true measure of Shristi’s impact lies in the lives it transforms. Individuals gain confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging. 

A Shared Responsibility 

Institutions like Shristi play a critical role in building a more equitable world. They remind us that meaningful change often begins quietly, with consistent effort, deep empathy, and a commitment to doing what is right. 

To learn more about their work, visit: https://shristispecialacademy.com/ 

Entrust Family Office would be happy to connect you with the founders and team behind these initiatives, and support you in your philanthropic endeavours.