Apoorv Om is a deaf artist, activist, and advocate for disability rights from India. He has received national and international recognition for promoting inclusivity, using technology for accessibility, and creating innovative artwork. He has spoken at global platforms like the United Nations (UN), UNESCO, and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to champion the rights of people with disabilities. Honored by the President of India, the UN General Assembly, and the Secretary-General of the UN, he also serves as a Fit India Ambassador and certified yoga trainer, promoting health and wellness.
Born on December 14, 1994, in Delhi, Apoorv grew up in Bihar and studied at Navy Children School, New Delhi, before earning a degree from the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi. Despite his hearing impairment, he excelled in art, architecture, and social work, dedicating his life to building a more inclusive society.
Apoorv works to ensure accessibility in education and workplaces, advocating for digital tools like voice-to-text apps to improve communication for the deaf. He has spoken at major global events, including the UN Headquarters in New York, the UN Office in Geneva, and UNESCO in Paris. His speech at the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2019 highlighted climate action and paper recycling initiatives while emphasizing disability rights.
As an innovative artist, Apoorv has created personalized portraits for world leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. His painting of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), featuring portraits of all 15 judges, is permanently displayed at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. His 2D/3D model artwork has also been exhibited at UNESCO in Paris and the Supreme Court of India Museum.
Apoorv also raises disability issues in the legal field, presenting a handmade portrait to the Chief Justice of India and other Supreme Court Justices on Law Day. He continuously advocates for stronger legal protections for persons with disabilities.
Beyond activism, he is a certified yoga trainer and Fit India Ambassador (2022), providing free yoga education to underprivileged children and promoting fitness and mindfulness. He also works on social awareness campaigns related to water conservation, environmental sustainability, and free art education for disadvantaged children.
Apoorv has received numerous awards, including the National Award for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (2017) from the President of India and the National Gaurav Award (2017). He has also been honored twice by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and recognized by the UN General Assembly and the UN Secretary-General.
Despite his achievements, he continues to push for more inclusive policies, promote technology for accessibility, and use art to spread awareness. Apoorv Om’s journey proves that disability is not a limitation but a source of strength, innovation, and change.
