Anjali's life took a drastic turn when her child was diagnosed with autism. Initially unfamiliar with the condition, she learnt about autism and later embarked on a journey to become a trainer herself. She founded an institute to support children and families impacted by autism.

Anjali Dada is a specialised RCI certified Trainer for Autism. She co-founded the SOCH Autism Society and serves as a Master Trainer for direct support practitioners. Additionally, she is also a talented watercolour artist.

Discussing her institute, she highlights its tagline, 'Soch hai to Kshamta hai', underscoring the immense talents and skills of neurodiverse individuals. Believing in the power of belief, she emphasises recognising and promoting the unlimited potential of children with special needs within society. The SOCH Autism Society of Punjab offers early intervention classes for recently diagnosed children, vocational classes for autistic adults, and conducts mother training programmes nationwide and internationally, empowering mothers to care for autistic children effectively.

Sharing her journey in the field, Anjali reveals that her connection with Autism began in 2004, when her child was diagnosed with the condition. Witnessing the lack of specialised trainers and services, even in a major city like Jalandhar, she resolved to undergo autism training herself. This led her to establish an institute aimed at supporting children and families affected by autism.

Describing how she balances her role as a mother and a trainer, she says she prioritises her child's well-being. Upon returning from Delhi, she founded her institute and juggled the roles of caregiver and mentor for her child while also supporting other parents in her institute. She found a supportive school in Kapurthala for her child and dedicated herself to aiding his education.

Drawing inspiration from Buddhist philosophy, she views life's challenges as missions to embrace for lasting happiness. Grateful for unwavering support from her husband, parents, and in-laws, she initially had to balance her multiple responsibilities but ultimately succeeded in managing them all.

Encouraged by friends, she turned to watercolour painting as a therapeutic outlet while managing the dual responsibilities of caring for her child and running her institute. In 2023, her institute launched "an inclusive art show," providing a platform for neurodiverse artists.

Born in Meerut and raised in Shimla, she attended the Convent of Jesus and Mary School, Chelsea, where she gained strength and principles. Her journey in art began in the fourth grade, when her paintings earned recognition, marking her as a budding artist.

Reflecting on her role models, she acknowledges her school teachers for their guidance and her sister for her unwavering support and positive influence. Following her marriage and exploration of Buddhism, her mentor, Daisaku Ikeda, profoundly impacted her with teachings on life as a mission and challenges as opportunities for growth. She credits her father-in-law for encouraging her to train in autism.

"A great human revolution in just a single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation and, further, will enable a change in the destiny of all humankind." This quote continues to inspire her journey.

Talking about her struggles, she recalls the initial struggle when her child was diagnosed with autism. Initially unaware of autism, she faced the daunting task of learning how to care for her child.

Despite the hurdles, Anjali persevered, earning recognition and accolades from society. Her institute has received awards such as the Women's Day Award, the Educator Teachers Award, and the Mother's Day Award for empowering women, along with recognition from platforms like Doordarshan. Her institute's story was even featured on the show ‘Jazba’ on Zee TV. Above all, she remains grateful for the blessings she has received.

Offering guidance to aspiring special educators, Anjali emphasises the importance of having strong motivation alongside the necessary educational qualifications. Compassion is key to providing support and building connections with the families of individuals with special needs. She believes parents should be empowered and motivated to care for their children with special needs, as they profoundly impact their child's development. She also advocates trainers to generously share their techniques with parents.

Addressing the youth, Anjali encourages them to consider community service and making meaningful contributions to support individuals with special needs. She urges them to foster an inclusive environment for all members of society. She invites everyone to engage with SOCH Autism Society and their Instagram page, 'Soch ke Rang'.