At just 24 years old, Pulkit Chopra is proving that resilience and passion can break barriers. Living with cerebral palsy, Pulkit has turned his personal challenges into a mission to support others like him through his initiative, Project Happiness.
This e-commerce platform provides People of Determination (PODs) a space to showcase and sell their handmade crafts, helping them gain economic independence and social inclusion. From greeting cards and framed artwork to block prints and pearl-beaded coasters, the platform features unique handmade products created by artists in the UAE and India.
Overcoming Challenges to Create Opportunities
Despite facing significant hurdles, including speech and vision impairments and nephrotic syndrome caused by prolonged steroid use, Pulkit refused to let his condition define him.
His journey began at the Rashid Centre for People of Determination, where he studied for four years before achieving what once seemed impossible—admission to a mainstream school.
Pulkit’s mother, Meeta, recalled the early struggles:
"Doctors told us he would never speak. His vision was a major concern, but over time, he improved—especially through art. A doctor once told me, ‘You see the most vivid colors in your dreams when your eyes are closed.’ That encouraged him to visualize beyond his limitations."
Pulkit later enrolled at GEMS New Millennium School, where he received immense support from his teachers and peers. The school made adjustments to accommodate his needs, including relocating classrooms for accessibility. His mother, a trained special educator, joined as a shadow teacher to assist him.
"I wanted to experience school life like my sister. At first, my parents were hesitant, unsure if I would be accepted. But Principal Guzder welcomed me with open arms. My school truly made me feel like I belonged," Pulkit said.
Building a Business for Social Impact
Pulkit’s entrepreneurial journey started at school, where he set up stalls at events to sell his handmade crafts. Encouraged by positive feedback, he developed a market survey to understand the demand for such products among PODs.
Today, Project Happiness is supported by the American University in Dubai’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center (AEIC), helping Pulkit secure licenses and mentorship to formalize his business.
Pulkit, now a fourth-year Marketing student at Heriot-Watt University, reflected on his vision:
"I believe economic independence brings dignity and self-reliance for People of Determination. This project helps them monetize their skills and build their own brand identity."
His sister, Sonali, has played a crucial role in helping him grow the initiative.
The Power of Community Support
Pulkit’s mother strongly believes that raising a child with special needs requires the involvement of an entire community.
"A child can navigate any challenge when all stakeholders come together. It started with Principal Guzder accepting Pulkit into school. Every teacher, every classmate stood by him, giving him the time and space to grow. That support system gave him confidence."
Pulkit’s message to others facing challenges is clear:
"Believe in yourself, persevere for your dreams, and work hard. Show the world that you are important—that even we can contribute in meaningful ways."
