In a global society that is starting to realize the unique significance of diversity and inclusion, the function of an organization such as the TRRAIN cannot be overstated. Ever since it began in 2011, TRRAIN has been committed to transforming the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) as well as young women from low income areas by freeing them from constraints that affect their capacity to work. Since its establishment, TRRAIN has empowered thousands of people changing their lives and helping them become more independent individuals.  

Carrying forward this great tradition, TRRAIN is gearing up for its landmark event, Ekam – All Inclusive Summit. Co-organized by the Retailers Association of India (RAI), Ekam is not an event but a platform, an appeal for change in our society.

Scheduled for 12th November 2024 at the prestigious Taj Santacruz, Ekam India is designed to bring together leaders, corporate giants, and advocates from various sectors, all sharing a common goal: that everyone, regardless of their deficiencies or origin, should be able to blossom and be productive.

H2: TRRAIN’s journey towards inclusion

Now that we have established a glimpse of what Ekam will be, let’s know more about the journey of TRRAIN and its strong emphasis on inclusion. TRRAIN was founded for the rehabilitation, education and skill development of PwDs and young women from vulnerable backgrounds to enable them to live a life with dignity – that’s what we call as sustainable livelihood creation. We take pride in announcing that thousands of people have found opportunities to work, progress and aspire for more through our efforts. 

We, however, acknowledge that a lot more needs to be done. Through Ekam, we look forward to reaching out to even more people and creating those influences. The summit is a crucial part of the change process in the transformed society that is free from and encouraging of discrimination. From Ekam, we want the business world, policy makers and society to understand that it needs to be made equal and provide an opportunity for one and all to thrive.

H3: Ekam – All Inclusive Summit: A platform for change

Ekam – All Inclusive Summit is a unique concept aimed at creating a platform to actually discuss, connect, and collectively work on inclusion. Through the collective voice of different sectors, Ekam seeks to break the cycle that hinders PwDs and vulnerable groups, especially young women. This is not merely a business summit but a summit for disability inclusion where people participate and get a chance to solve real issues of the world, by coming up with innovative solutions to help the disabled get sustainable livelihoods and a better life.

H2: Key Themes of Ekam India: Accessibility, Skilling, and Sustainable Livelihoods

The summit will delve into several critical areas, all of which are essential for creating inclusive ecosystems. At the core of Ekam – All Inclusive Summit, lies a powerful and transformative theme: Embrace, Employ, Empower. 

This theme best encapsulates what has motivated the creation of both TRRAIN and RAI, and the vision for Ekam: the world needs to be designed in such a way that the deserving will be ‘picked up’ and given a chance to grow and succeed.

• Embrace, which means creating an environment where one recognizes difference as a positive force. It’s more about dismantling the system that causes people with disabilities and young women from ostracized communities to feel like they don’t belong.

• Employ, uniquely stresses practical experience. Ekam has a vision to urge organizations to open their doors for people with talent irrespective of their background. This way, companies can bring about real change by making workplaces more accessible for everyone.

• Empower, which is more than providing a job; it’s about creating confidence, strength, and self-esteem. Ekam aims to bring about an era where people are not just given an employment opportunity but the ability to stand on their own feet that also comes with dignity.

Through Embrace, Employ, Empower, Ekam aims to shift mind-sets, inspire change, and build a future where inclusion is more than an idea – it’s a lived reality across all industries.

H3: Highlights from Ekam 2023: A Foundation for Growth

The 2023 edition of Ekam, which happened at Taj Santacruz, marked an epic step toward fostering inclusivity within the retail and allied industries. The event saw participation from over 300 corporates, with leaders from companies such as Titan, IKEA, Hexaware, Ecosac, Shoppers Stop, Being Human, Inorbit Mall, Landmark Group, and NASSCOM. These leaders came together to discuss the challenges and opportunities of creating inclusive workplaces.

The success of Ekam 2023 demonstrated the immense potential for positive change when industry leaders unite for a common goal – how to promote disability inclusion. The discussions at the summit acted as a catalyst for inspiring policies, encouraging leaders to think differently about inclusion and sustainability. The event laid the groundwork for a long-term commitment to inclusivity, sparking ideas and initiatives that will be built upon in future editions of Ekam.

H2: What to Expect at Ekam India 2024

This year, Ekam Summit India will continue the conversation, with even greater enthusiasm and a broader scope. Attendees can look forward to:

• Engaging keynote speeches: Inspirational leaders and advocates will share their journeys and insights, shedding light on the importance of inclusivity in today’s world.
• Panel discussions and workshops: Industry experts, activists, and stakeholders will delve into pressing topics like inclusive hiring practices, policy reforms, and accessibility in digital spaces.
• Networking opportunities: Ekam provides a platform for professionals from various sectors to connect, share knowledge, and explore partnerships that support inclusion and empowerment.
• Success stories and case studies: Attendees will hear first-hand accounts of individuals and organizations that have successfully implemented inclusive practices, offering inspiration and practical strategies that others can replicate.
• Action-oriented outcomes: Ekam aims to go beyond just discussions by encouraging attendees to commit to actionable steps. The summit will focus on fostering collaborations that lead to concrete, measurable outcomes in the journey toward a more inclusive workforce.

H3: Ekam India: A Call to Action

TRRAIN’s mission to empower lives and inspire dreams is embodied in every aspect of Ekam. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates, the summit fosters an environment of collaboration, driving real change toward a society that values diversity and celebrates the contributions of every individual.

This summit is a call to action for companies, communities, and individuals to take a stand for inclusivity and empowerment. It’s a reminder that true progress requires not just words but action, commitment, and a shared vision for a world where everyone can succeed without limitations.

As Ekam approaches, TRRAIN invites everyone to be a part of this transformative journey. Together, we can create a future where diversity is not only acknowledged but embraced, where every person, regardless of their abilities, has a place in the workforce, and where inclusion becomes the norm, not the exception.

Join us at the Ekam – All Inclusive Summit and be a part of the movement towards a more inclusive, sustainable world. Let’s work together to build a society where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. Don’t forget to show your support to TRRAIN’s cause through livelihood donations.