In Conversation with Aahan about His Journey and Special Needs

In conversation with Aahan about his journey and special needs.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Aahan Patel and I am 22 years old. I am studying B.A. in English.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I like listening to music, dancing, drumming, playing video games, playing cricket, watching movies and doing social work.

What are your future goals?

I want to be better in listening and understanding English and be a good listener. I want to be a calm person and not get anxious unnecessarily.

Tell us a little bit about your journey.

In school, I had difficulties in learning and remembering answers. I also had difficulty in writing fast in exams, but I managed to do well because I worked very hard and made new friends. I have participated in Lila Poonawala Foundation program for teaching under-privileged students. I have also collected donations for Ummeed Child Development Center in Mumbai. I volunteered in Tapas Elder Care in Pune. I have got my permanent driver’s license. I am currently learning cricket and drums. I have completed Front Desk, MS office and Graphic Designing course and received certificates for them. I am also learning life skills during the pandemic from Evoluer Solutions.

What are the challenges you have faced in your journey?

Earlier, I used to laugh a lot for no reason. Sometimes, I was not able to understand what was going on in a conversation. I also take lots of time to get over things most of the times. For e.g. because of this pandemic, I get bothered a lot that I have to maintain social distancing which is frustrating and annoying.

What has helped you in your journey?

My mother is doing so much hard work for me. She is helping me to improve and pushing me to face difficult things. She clears my misunderstandings and makes me understand to never give up.

What do you think would help people with special needs in their journey?

Need to improve in skills. Understand to not give up. Always work hard. Try your best to accomplish in different activities and be independent.

What message would you like to give people with special needs and their family and friends?

Never give up and be proud of yourself.

~ Aahan Patel