This International Women’s Day, we are sharing a real story that may feel familiar to many girls who grew up feeling a little different.
“Anna” is not her real name. She has chosen to remain anonymous, and we honour that choice. But the story she shared with us is too meaningful not to tell.
As a young girl in Kolkata, Anna often struggled in school. She tried hard, but things that seemed simple for others didn’t always come easily to her. At times she felt unsure of herself and where she belonged. Then there was a teacher who saw something others missed. Instead of focusing on Anna’s struggles, she noticed her quiet strengths. She encouraged her, supported her, and even chose her to be the class captain. That trust meant the world to Anna. She wanted to live up to the faith her teacher had placed in her.
In trying to do so, something beautiful began to happen – Anna slowly started discovering herself.
Years later, Anna learned that she is autistic. With that understanding came a wave of reflection. Suddenly many childhood memories made sense. And among them stood the memory of that teacher – someone who, without labels or diagnoses, simply understood that Anna needed patience, belief, and kindness.
This International Women’s Day, we also think about the many girls who grew up without a diagnosis. Girls who were called shy, dreamy, stubborn, sensitive, or “too quiet.” Girls who tried their best to fit in, often learning to mask who they were just to navigate school and friendships. Many of those girls are women today, slowly rediscovering themselves with new understanding and self-acceptance.
Anna’s story is a gentle reminder of two powerful things – the courage it takes to grow into your true self, and the life-changing impact of a teacher who chooses empathy. Sometimes, one person’s belief can quietly shape an entire life. Today we celebrate the strength, resilience, and beautiful journeys of autistic women everywhere.
#InternationalWomensDay#AutisticWomen#Neurodiversity#InclusionMatters#DifferentNotLess#AnupamPrayaasFoundation
