Eyeway Conversations

Eyeway Conversations with Ashmira Hamirani


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In this episode of Eyeway Conversations, host George Abraham sits down with Ashmira Hamirani, a professional social worker with an extraordinary journey of resilience and purpose. Originally from Mumbai and now based in Bengaluru, Ashmira shares her inspiring life story — from pursuing a master's in Criminology and Justice at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) to working in prisons and aftercare programs, and now advocating for accessibility and inclusivity.

Ashmira discusses her passion for addressing human trafficking and the systemic challenges women face in the criminal justice system. She recounts her experiences working in the Bangalore Central Prison and with the Prayas organization, highlighting her impactful work in aftercare services for women post-incarceration.

Beyond her professional journey, Ashmira shares personal stories of overcoming societal and institutional barriers as a blind woman. From battling university rules to study psychology to learning to cook and raise her daughter independently, her narrative is a testament to perseverance and adaptability.

Currently serving as a Senior Coordinator at the Association of People with Disability (APD), Ashmira leads initiatives to improve accessibility through the "Yes to Access" app. She also conducts empathy-building workshops and contributes to research on disability rights and transportation accessibility.

This episode sheds light on the unique challenges and triumphs of living with visual impairment while dedicating one’s life to social justice and empowerment.


About The Guest:

  • Social worker specializing in Criminology and Justice.
  • Experience working in Bangalore Central Prison and aftercare programs for women.
  • Current role at APD Bengaluru, leading accessibility projects and research.

  • Key Topics Discussed:

    • Pursuing higher education and career in Criminology and Justice despite systemic barriers.
    • Challenges faced by women in prisons and post-release rehabilitation efforts.
    • Personal anecdotes about childhood, family support, and learning to cook as a visually impaired individual.
    • Raising her daughter as a blind mother and the lessons learned.
    • Accessibility advocacy through the "Yes to Access" app and promoting empathy in corporates and colleges.

    • Memorable Quotes:

      “The ultimate aim is that when someone comes out of prison, they should have adequate support to rebuild their life and avoid vulnerable situations.”

      “As a blind mother, I’ve learned that while eye coordination is important in the early years, what truly matters is communication and involvement.”


      Resources Mentioned:

      1. Prayas – Field Action Project of TISS
      2. Association of People with Disability (APD)

      3. Additional Information:

        1. Explore more about accessibility rights under the recent Supreme Court judgment.
        2. Learn how you can volunteer or support initiatives for disability inclusion.

        3. Listen to this powerful conversation to gain insights into the intersections of disability, social justice, and resilience.

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          Eyeway ConversationsBy Eyeway