Creative, intense, energetic, dreamy, extraordinary…words 5-year-old Norah wears with pride and confidence. Norah was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth, a genetic condition that has several misconceptions associated with it. But Norah and her mum, Pooja decided to change the frame of reference and redefine how the world perceives ‘abilities’. As advocates of neurodiversity, this mother-daughter duo believes in celebrating life every day and documenting it on social media to reach out to parents who have neurodiverse children and encourage conversations around Down Syndrome. It’s difficult to take your eyes off little Norah. She’s a powerhouse of energy who brightens up your spirits the moment she enters the room. We’re in awe of the mother-daughter duo who are on a mission to spread love and positivity. In an exclusive interview with Her Circle, they share a glimpse of their ‘normal’– one that’s full of love and positivity.
“People have a very different perception of what special needs is. And rightly so, because until and unless you don’t see the other side of it, you don’t really know what goes on,” believes Pooja.
Down Syndrome, a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome does not limit a child’s potential but opens up newer avenues of growth and learning. “ We try to show what our normal is on social media, our everyday normal, what we do, because people have a very different perception about what special needs is, and rightly so, because until and unless you don't see the other side of it, you don't really know what goes on,” she adds.
For the May edition, we’re excited to welcome Pooja & Norah to the Her Circle EveryBODY Project. Let’s celebrate neurodiversity and create an inclusive space together.
Image Credits
Featuring: Pooja & Norah
CEO & Editor-in-Chief: Tanya Chaitanya
Assistant Editor: Iona Chatterjee
Art Director: Sameer More
Photographer: Harish Iyer
Stylist: Sonali Valecha
On-Location Support: Gauri Gautam & Alkesh Kadam
Outfit
On Pooja: Neeta Lulla
On Norah: One Friday
Video Credits
Assistant Editor: Iona Chatterjee
Stylist: Sonali Valecha
Videographer: Harish Iyer
Video Editor: Sameer More
Camera Assistants: Yash Bedi & Gauri Gautam
On-Location Support: Alkesh Kadam
Outfit
On Pooja
Pink Pantsuit: Neeta Lulla
Green Co-ord Set: RadhaRaman
On Norah
Yellow printed dress: Miko Lolo Kids’ Clothing
Yellow Co-ord Set: One Friday
Blue Dress: Muuyee