KAFC’s 2023 Trip to India: A Cross-Cultural Exchange in Autism and Developmental Disabilities

In 2023, KAFC had the privilege of traveling to India to lead multiple workshops focused on autism, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and best practices for supporting individuals with diverse needs. Over the course of our visit, Vidya and Andy conducted trainings and consultations across three different locations, engaging directly with families, educators, and professionals dedicated to improving support systems for neurodivergent individuals. These sessions provided a space for collaboration, where we shared evidence-based strategies while also gaining insight into the unique challenges and cultural perceptions surrounding mental and behavioral health in India. By fostering these international discussions, we strengthened our commitment to global learning and culturally responsive care.

This trip was not just about providing education—it was also about listening, learning, and deepening our understanding of the Indian community’s perspectives on disability and support services. We witnessed firsthand how cultural values shape approaches to diagnosis, intervention, and family advocacy, broadening our awareness of the systemic and societal factors that influence care. KAFC believes that true cultural competency is an ongoing process, and our time in India reaffirmed our dedication to serving our Indian communities in Washington with greater sensitivity and effectiveness. By integrating the knowledge we gained, we aim to make our services more inclusive, accessible, and attuned to the diverse backgrounds of the families we support.