International Diana Award

Eshwaramma, aged 18 from Karnataka in India.

Eshwaramma is a quadriplegic campaigner and she’s a real motivator and role model. Eshwaramma was nominated by the anti-poverty charity ActionAid for her tireless advocacy and campaigning to increase acceptance of children with disabilities at government and local level. A few years ago, the state government introduced a programme to rehabilitate people with disabilities in the rural sector. When the officials and volunteers were recruited for this work, they were not able to understand the problems faced by those with severe disabilities. Eshwaramma took it upon herself to discuss her case as well as cases of many others with them. A few of these volunteers, being disabled themselves, have seen her enthusiasm and commitment to change the situation of disabled people in the community!

Apart from understanding society’s apathy to disability, Eshwaramma, whose ambition is to be an art teacher, would spend some of her free time with young Homshi. Homshi is a 12-year-old boy with speech problems who has missed several opportunities in life, most of all his right to an education. Eshwaramma, aware of this, convinced his parents to admit him to school despite the potential problems he would have to overcome. She was already known in the village and was willing to provide support when any issues arose. Today Homshi is receiving the education he needs and this is a direct result of the work of Eshwaramma.

Eshwaramma is also a young carer for her sister and in particular provides her with learning support. She also takes responsibility for cleaning the house and her parents rely on her for writing letters to people on their behalf including family members. On other occasions, being fully aware of her rights, she would not hesitate to speak to authorities about her needs. For instance she campaigned for a ramp to be installed in the school.

Eshwaramma was an instant hit at school and has inspired many young people. Eshwaramma has influenced government, her village, schools and other authorities to be sensitive to disability issues, accessibility schemes and inclusive education. She has motivated village volunteers through her work with Homshi. She is a role model and inspiration to her peers drawing inspiration for them to lead their lives positively. Her regular attendance at school inspires other disabled children to attend school as well. She is able to write, paint and draw with her mouth. Many teachers look to her to get inspiration and have changed their views about disabled children as a result. Her persistence with local governance has brought about real change for disabled people. Eshwaramma has been supported during her childhood through ActionAid’s child sponsorship programme.

On receiving the first International Diana Award, Eshwaramma said: “I am pleased to receive the International Diana Award, I like to help people and that makes me happy. I will continue to help people in the future.”