Angadi Khajahussain works as an Early Interventionist in APD’s programme in Bengaluru. In Harapanahalli, his native village, he had been working as a labourer.

Hussain’s story of grit and commitment is an inspiration to his peers and the children he works with.

Hussain was born with visual impairment. Despite this challenge, he completed his 2nd PUC in Science. He hoped to study further but financial constraints stalled his dream. Instead, he took up work as a labourer to add to his family’s income.

But luck favours the one who seeks. A friend informed Hussain about APD’s Certificate Course in Rehabilitation Therapy (CCRT). Hussain felt pulled to the cause and convinced his parents to let him train for the job. He took the first train journey of his life to Bangalore.

On reaching APD, his own needs were assessed first. He was prescribed correction spectacles. The improved vision enhanced Hussain’s capacity to learn and improve his skills. He received English language training to cope with his academics. Coming from a Kannada medium background, Hussain had to put in some intense work. But his willingness and self-motivation sailed him through.

Hussain learned Sign Language. This helped him communicate with trainees with hearing impairment. He developed strong friendships as he completed the course.

As a RCI certified professional in Care Giving and Early Intervention, Hussain provides activity-based intervention to 53 children with developmental delays. He is trained in hydrotherapy too. In fact, Hussain Anna’s water exercise class is an anticipated session among the children!

Hussain also screens new-borns at the KR Puram General Hospital. He conducts capacity building and sensitization sessions for government stakeholders such as ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and the RBSK team. He trains them to identify children with developmental delays and explains the importance of early intervention and referral.

Hussain wants to study further. He aims to enable children and adults with disability; enhance the quality of their life in an inclusive world. With APD’s support, he attends Continuous Rehabilitation Education (CRE) courses to update his knowledge. He has also enrolled for the Bachelor of Social Work degree.

Hussain’s journey is a testament to perseverance. His desire to transform his life helped him discover the avenues he needed to support himself and his family while rendering a much-needed service to the community.

Hussain’s mother shares her experience: “We belong to an extremely poor family. APD has shown our family a new path. I am not sure how to thank APD. My son, Hussain, who was disabled, was given an opportunity to study and get a job. Today I see my son’s confidence and responsibility. It brings my husband and me so much joy. He is now taking care of his younger brother’s education.”

She smiles with pride.