Resilience in Motion : A Conversation with Suresh Perumal

In a world that often moves too fast, Suresh Perumal reminds us that the pace of a life isn't measured by speed but by the purpose behind every step. Suresh, an individual living with Cerebral Palsy, doesn’t view his condition as a barrier but rather as the unique landscape through which he navigates his world.

Our recent conversation delved deep into his journey—not just the challenges of a motor disability but the triumphs of a man who has found his rhythm in a supportive community. Central to his story is Diya Innovations, a social enterprise that has become more than just a workplace for Suresh; it is a space where his skills are honed and his independence is celebrated.

What We Explored

In our interview, we pulled back the curtain on the "daily grind" that looks a little different for Suresh yet feels universally human:

  • The Morning Momentum: How Suresh prepares for his day and the physical navigation required to transition from home to the workforce.
  • The Heart of Diya Innovations: A look at the vocational tasks Suresh masters, from crafting artisanal products to engaging with his peers in a collaborative environment.
  • Breaking Stereotypes: Suresh’s personal take on how society perceives cerebral palsy versus the reality of his lived experience.
  • The Power of Inclusion: How an inclusive workspace like Diya provides more than just a pay cheque—it provides a sense of belonging and a platform for self-advocacy.

Suresh working with Sendhil

"Work gives me a reason to get up and show the world what I can do". 

A Multi-Faceted Leader at Diya Innovations

Suresh isn't just a face in the crowd; he is a vital pillar of the Diya Innovations ecosystem. His daily life is a masterclass in multitasking and responsibility. Within the organisation, his influence spans across several specialised departments:

  • Operational Mastery: Suresh is a mainstay in the carpentry, screen printing, and candle-making units.
  • The Supervisor’s Eye: Moving beyond manual tasks, he supervises the team, ensuring that quality meets the high standards Diya is known for.
  • Logistics & Distribution: He manages the critical "last mile", handling courier packing and booking deliveries to ensure the fruits of the team's labour reach the world.

The Hustle and the Health

What makes Suresh truly stand out is his staggering personal discipline. While most people find one job exhausting, Suresh works two jobs to fuel his ambitions. His commitment to his physical well-being puts most of us to shame:

  • The 10000 steps Daily Standard: Every single day, Suresh walks 10000 steps, a testament to his physical resilience and mental fortitude.
  • A Temple for a Body: He maintains a strict lifestyle, completely avoiding aerated drinks and sweets—a level of self-control that mirrors his professional focus

Dreams Without Borders

Back in his hometown, Suresh is a figure of immense pride. His family and relatives hold a deep-seated respect for him, not out of pity, but out of genuine admiration for his character. But Suresh isn't done yet.

His eyes are set on travelling abroad, a dream he is actively funding through his double-job hustle. Ultimately, his goal is to transition from supervisor to founder, with a burning desire to own his own company someday. 

This interview isn't just a profile on disability; it’s a profile on capability. It’s about a man who walks 10 kilometres a day toward a future he is building with his own two hands.