Say cheese to life!

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It was a happy bunch of people, chatting, laughing and having a really good time at the art hub Jai Bharat Centre at Hauz Khas Village recently.

The group had come together for the launch of the “Shooting Stars”, photography exhibition, which was the culmination of a three-week photography workshop for people with special needs organised by Down Syndrome Support India (DSSI), and showcased the work of the students. Their conversations revolved around how they clicked these photographs and the fun they had while shooting.
One of the founders of DSSI, Namrata Agrawal, informs that the aim of this organisation, started by four siblings who have a sister born with Down Syndrome, is to create a support group for all who have a loved one with Down Syndrome. “It will be a platform where friends and family can share concerns, ideas and resources. Our broader aim is to spread awareness about this condition, which is the first step towards acceptance and integration,” she says.
In the workshop the students used simple point and shoot cameras. They were taught camera basics and what makes a good photograph. The aim of the workshop was to provide a platform for, and facilitate, social interaction amongst the students to give them an opportunity to make new friends, and amongst families to strengthen the support group. But how was the idea born? “We’ve been fortunate to have a great support system right from the time our sister Varuni was born. Thanks to this positive and healthy environment, Varuni is a very happy person, with a job as a teacher’s assistant, a loyal set of friends and hobbies and interests. Along our journey with her, we realised not everyone has been this fortunate. This led to the birth of our community,” she says.
“The response has been tremendous. The students were very excited and the pride on the parents’ faces at the launch was apparent. Friends were always there to help. We will certainly take this initiative forward. Right now we are contemplating a sports meet. Social networking sites have been a boon and a lot of people are showing interest and are keen on collaborating,” said Namrata.

Join the cause at: http://www.facebook.com/DownSyndromeSupportIndia [2] or downsyndrome.india@gmail.
com