FLO Mumbai, led by Chairperson Pooja Arambhan Tiwari, organised an Integrative Play Session bringing together students from Parmanandwadi MPS School and Cathedral & John Connon School. The objective was to facilitate play-based interaction between children from diverse social backgrounds and to foster empathy, inclusion and friendship.
This event aligned with FLO Mumbai’s mission of nurturing inclusive mindsets in tomorrow’s generation. By creating a shared space where children from different backgrounds play, learn and interact, the initiative aimed to:
- Dismantle early social biases and stereotypes.
- Promote equality, respect and empathy among young students.
- Offer municipal school children access to a premium educational environment with dignity and joy.
- Encourage private-school children to connect meaningfully beyond familiar circles.
- Reinforce the idea that inclusive communities strengthen society.
Sincere gratitude to Ms. Rashmi Balwani, Enrich Lives Foundation for providing her valuable support in identifying and coordinating the interaction with the Parmandwadi MNS School.
Impact
- 32 students (19 boys, 13 girls) participated in inclusive play and built peer-connections across schools.
- Municipal school children received high-quality school bags, activity kits and snacks, enhancing their sense of inclusion and belonging.
- Private-school children engaged meaningfully, developed new friendships, and gained empathy for diverse contexts.
- Early experience of inclusive interaction contributed to building better social capital and confidence among children.
- FLO reinforced its role as a catalyst for inclusive education experiences and community bridging.
Observations
- Initial group segmentation diminished quickly as children engaged in collaborative tasks and games.
- Facilitators observed that children responded positively to shared challenges rather than competitive formats.
- The gifting moment cultivated delight and a sense of being valued for municipal school students.
- Private-school students displayed curiosity and openness, asking questions and offering support.
- Teachers and facilitators recommended follow-up sessions to deepen bonds and foster continuity.
The Integrative Play Interaction between Parmanandwadi MPS School and Cathedral & John Connon School was a meaningful step toward building inclusion, empathy, and social connection in young minds.
Under the leadership of Chairperson Pooja Arambhan Tiwari, FICCI FLO Mumbai continues to deliver experiences that transcend traditional silos and foster inclusive communities. The spirit of equality, teamwork, and shared joy exhibited by the children reflects the power of such interventions—and underscores FLO’s commitment to shaping a more inclusive future generation.