New Delhi, September 20, 2024: The Zero Project India Conference 2024, a landmark event dedicated to advancing disability inclusion through innovation, is set to take place on September 19-20 at The Leela Hotel, Gurugram. Organized by Youth4Jobs Foundation, with the global Zero project, this conference represents a crucial platform for addressing the needs of India’s largest minority—people with disabilities—by showcasing pioneering solutions and fostering collaboration across sectors. This second edition of the Zero Project India Conference builds on the success of the inaugural event, with a renewed focus on driving systemic change in this sector.
In India, approximately 63.28 million people, or 4.52% of the population, live with disabilities, according to the ICMR’s publication from the NFHS-5 survey (2019-21). This significant portion of the population represents the largest minority in the country, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive initiatives that address their unique challenges. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 aims to meet this need by highlighting innovations in technology, education, and policy that can transform accessibility and inclusion for millions.
Meera Shenoy, Founder and CEO of Youth4Jobs Foundation, emphasized the importance of the conference, stating, “The Zero Project India Conference is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for change, bringing together diverse minds to create an inclusive future. At Youth4Jobs, we are deeply committed to addressing the needs of people with disabilities, who constitute the largest minority in India. This conference allows us to leverage innovation and collaboration to break down barriers and build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. By focusing on grassroots innovations and the empowerment of women with disabilities, we are not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for a more equitable future.”
The conference agenda will be rich with impactful sessions, including a discussion on the global potential of Indian grassroots solutions. This panel will explore how local innovations, driven by community needs, can be scaled to make a global impact. Topics range from AI to grassroot, women, assistive tech, early interventions, Building bridges with Africa etc. The event will also feature a dedicated session on the Women Entrepreneurs with Disabilities (WEDO) initiative, an important Youth4Jobs program that empowers women to become leaders in their communities. These discussions underscore the conference’s commitment to not only addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also empowering them to lead the charge in creating solutions.
“With the Zero Project India Conference, we have a unique and powerful opportunity to forge connections between our extensive global network of experts and the incredible, homegrown innovations arising from India and beyond. This platform is not just about sharing knowledge, but about fostering a collaborative environment where international leaders and local changemakers can work together to address some of the most pressing challenges in accessibility, inclusion, and social development. By building these bridges, we aim to amplify the impact of pioneering solutions that hold the potential to transform societies globally.” said Michael Fembek, CEO of the Zero Project.
The conference is supported by The Hans Foundation and Axis Bank Foundation, both of which play a crucial role in advancing disability inclusion in India. Their involvement underscores the importance of multi-sector collaboration in driving meaningful change.
As India continues to grow as a hub for innovation, the role of initiatives like the Zero Project India Conference becomes increasingly vital. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between global and local stakeholders, this event aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative practices that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities across the nation.
Youth4Jobs Foundation, alongside its partners, is leading this mission, setting the stage for a future where inclusivity is not just an aspiration but a reality. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 is poised to be a landmark event in the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and accessible world.