A 25-year-old Ghaziabad woman, who has been battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Type-2) since childhood, is defying the odds and becoming a source of inspiration. Afflicted by a condition that hampers nutrition production in the bones promoting weakness and stunted growth, Bhumika faces challenges in walking and sitting. Despite the debilitating effects of the disease, she has not only pursued her dreams but has also become a beacon of resilience for others.
Bhumika, with a lifelong passion for fashion design, chose to follow her dream despite facing adversity. Although her illness prevented her from securing her preferred fashion design course at NIFT’s Delhi campus, she seized the opportunity to study fashion communication. Her college experience provided valuable insights into the challenges of the fashion and marketing industry.
Living with a condition that demands constant reliance, Bhumika shared the daily challenges she faced during college. Despite her eagerness to participate in college events, practical obstacles often posed difficulties. Nevertheless, her friends consistently provided encouragement and support.
Bhumika has launched a fashion brand named Shakya, aimed at providing stylish clothing for individuals with disabilities. The name Shakya translates to capable in Sanskrit. Bhumika explains that this startup focuses on offering fashionable clothes for people who struggle to find apparel in their size and preferred style due to industry-standard sizing.
The brand ensures that individuals with disabilities also have access to trendy clothing. Bhumika envisions taking this brand to a global level. Launched in November last year, the company currently boasts a team of four people.
Similarly, Chennai-based designer Shalini Visakan launched a clothing line for individuals with different abilities that combines fashion with adaptability.
Shalini Visakan, a 30-year-old fashion designer and founder of Suvastra Designs, has addressed the needs of her wheelchair-bound husband. Beginning with belts and handles for easy lifting, she evolved to designing self-sufficient garments. A Chennai-based NIFT graduate, Shalini also designed a single-piece saree for her aunt with mobility challenges. After witnessing the transformative impact on the lives of differently-abled individuals, Shalini Visakan launched her adaptive clothing brand, Suvastra Designs.
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