The 21 Purple Ambassadors for the upcoming International Purple Fest – Goa 2025, scheduled to be held from 9th to 12th October 2025, have been officially announced.
The announcement was made by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and United Nations India.
Representing Tamil Nadu, Swarnalatha, Founder and Managing Trustee of Swarga Foundation, has been selected as a Purple Ambassador. She joins a diverse group of leaders, changemakers, and advocates from across the country.
She will champion the festival’s mission of promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment for persons with disabilities, while also amplifying local stories and grassroots efforts from her region.
Each ambassador, representing one of the 21 disabilities recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, was selected through a rigorous nomination process for their leadership, advocacy, and commitment to promoting accessibility and inclusion.
This year’s selection reflects a strong representation of women and rural voices, underlining the movement’s dedication to ensuring diverse and authentic representation from across the country.
As Purple Ambassadors, these inspiring individuals will:
- Represent their disability communities with authenticity and leadership
- Engage in both on-ground and online outreach to promote the Fest
- Actively participate in key segments of the Fest and contribute to inclusive dialogues
- Offer feedback to improve the accessibility and inclusivity of the Fest
- Continue advocacy for disability rights within their regions after the Fest
The Purple Ambassadors initiative aims to create a strong, nationwide network of advocates who will spread the message of inclusion within their states, mobilise participation, and share their unique perspectives during the Fest.
About the International Purple Fest – Goa 2025
International Purple Fest – Goa 2025 is India’s largest inclusive festival dedicated to promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and the rights of persons with disabilities. The event will feature a vibrant programme of conferences, exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities.
The Fest will bring together national and international delegates, disability rights experts, innovators, and cultural influencers. It will showcase accessible cultural performances, policy dialogues, workshops, and interactive experiences, all aimed at creating a more inclusive society.
Speaking on the occasion, Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa, stated that the appointment of the 21 Purple Ambassadors reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunity. He added that these individuals are not just representatives, but changemakers who will lead the way in promoting accessibility, awareness, and dignity for persons with disabilities.
Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, said that Purple Fest aligns with the United Nations’ global mission to promote equality, inclusion, and dignity for all. He noted that the appointment of these ambassadors from across India embodies the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals — leaving no one behind. The UN is proud to support this extraordinary initiative that showcases the power of representation, especially from women and rural communities.
Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa, stated, “The Purple Ambassadors are the heart of this Fest. They bring lived experience, empathy, and leadership to the forefront. Their voices will shape not only this event but also the larger narrative on inclusion in India. We are especially proud of the local representation from Goa, which showcases the state’s role as a national leader in accessibility and rights-based empowerment.”
