Overcoming Challenges: Resilience & Self-Discovery | Neena Wagh | TEDxKunskapsskolan Gurgaon Youth
In this heartfelt and powerful talk, Neena Wagh shares her journey of raising her son Ammogh, who is on the autism spectrum, and how adversity became a catalyst for strength, empathy, and transformation. Through challenges of social isolation, fear of the unknown, and difficult life decisions, Neena chose action over inaction, empathy over despair, and discovered both her son’s gifts and her own hidden strengths. From building coping mechanisms to forming communities and creating platforms for awareness, she highlights how resilience, creativity, and empathy can turn struggles into opportunities for growth. This talk is a reminder that success is not about perfection but about never giving up on yourself — and embracing life with all its shades. Neena Wagh, a passionate autism advocate, parent, and community leader who has been actively involved in the disability and assisted living space for over 20 years. She played a key role in setting up the Autism website for the National Trust and has helped numerous organizations grow by building systems and support structures. For the past 10 years, her focus has been on Assisted Living for individuals with special needs — a cause close to her heart. Neena is the Founder Trustee of ALAP — Assisted Living for Autistic Persons, a residential facility where young adults, including her own son, live and learn independently. She also founded the Forum for Assisted Living Solutions, a global online community that shares best practices and developments in this crucial space.She serves on the advisory boards of leading organizations like Action for Autism (New Delhi), Bhabhna Trust (West Bengal), and Neon Star Foundation (Nagpur), and continues to guide and mobilize parent-led efforts across the country.Neena’s mission is driven by one critical question — “What after us?” — and she is tirelessly working to create sustainable, community-based solutions for the future of individuals with special needs. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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