Human Library Story

Vivek Yeralkar, a low vision achiever from Pune, Maharashtra, is a shining example of resilience, passion, and determination. At the National Abilympics 2025, organized by Sarthak Educational Trust, he won a Bronze Medal in Photography Studio. Earlier the same year, he secured a Gold Medal in Photography Studio at the Regional Abilympics 2025, proving his exceptional talent and dedication.

Vivek’s life took an unexpected turn at the age of 39 when he experienced sudden vision loss due to severe retinal damage. At that time, he was working with Bharat Gear Limited, where he had dedicated 18 years of service. Due to his low vision disability, he lost his job, which was emotionally and financially challenging for him.

He went through nearly two years of deep emotional struggle while undergoing treatment. Although he regained around 30% of his vision, the treatment caused bone weakness, leading to multiple disabilities. Despite these hardships, Vivek refused to give up on life.

Determined to rebuild his life, he reconnected with the disability community and relearned various skills aligned with his abilities. However, securing employment remained extremely challenging. During this phase, he also faced personal loss, which made life even more difficult. Despite everything, he chose strength and resilience over defeat.

Finding Direction Through Skill and Support

His journey changed when he connected with Sarthak Educational Trust, where he learned about employment opportunities and skill development pathways. Photography had always been his passion, and with support from Beyond Sight NGO, he decided to pursue it professionally.

He worked hard to polish his skills and eventually started conducting workshops, motivating many children with disabilities to believe in their abilities and express themselves creatively.

Rebuilding Life with Confidence

Over time, his life found stability again. He rebuilt his personal life, got married, and is now a proud father of three children. His journey reflects not just professional recovery, but personal renewal as well.

Before acquiring his disability, Vivek actively participated in many competitions. After disability, through Sarthak Educational Trust, he connected with NAAI and restarted his competitive journey. His dedication led him to win Gold at the Regional Abilympics and Bronze at the National Abilympics in Delhi.

Through the Lens of Determination

Vivek believes that photography is especially challenging for a person with low vision, but passion gives him the strength to keep trying and capturing meaningful moments through his lens.

Now at 58 years of age, Vivek continues to practice and improve his skills. His dream is to represent India at the upcoming International Abilympics in Finland and bring home a Gold Medal for the country.

He strongly believes that disability may create gaps in life, but with determination, continuous learning, and the right support system, those gaps can be bridged—leading towards success and self-reliance.