For the first time in my life, I travelled beyond India’s shores to the beautiful city of Vienna, Austria, and my heart is still absorbing the magnitude of this experience.
Representing the state of Goa, India, at the Zero Conference 2026 was not just a professional milestone, It was deeply personal. As a person with blindness, stepping into a new country, navigating unfamiliar spaces, engaging with global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and disability rights champions it felt like crossing more than geographical borders, It felt like breaking invisible barriers within myself.
The Zero Conference is not just an event, it is a global convergence of ideas, innovation, accessibility, and human dignity. With participation from across the world, the platform brought together voices shaping the future of inclusion. To speak there and share the journey of International Purple Fest Goa and the inclusive movement we are building back home was an honour beyond words.
What moved me most was the power of connection.
Conversations with delegates from around the world. learning about cutting-edge accessibility solutions, understanding global best practices, exchanging ideas on policy, technology, inclusive design, and rightsbased frameworks it truly felt like opening a window to the future.
For the first time, I experienced a European nation Austria its systems, its accessibility infrastructure, its public spaces, and its culture of dignity and independence. Every moment became a lesson. Every interaction became inspiration.
And as I stood there in Vienna, I kept thinking of Goa.
I kept thinking of the dream of our Hon’ble Chief Minister to make Goa a truly Inclusive State.
This journey has strengthened my resolve. We are not behind. We are part of a global movement. And we now carry global insights, partnerships, and renewed confidence back home.
This was my first international trip but it certainly will not be the last.
Because when you cross one border with purpose, you realise the world is not distant it is connected.
Together, we will build an Inclusive Goa that stands tall on the global stage.
The journey has just begun. 💜🌍
By Rotarian Taha Haaziq, a member of the Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy, District 7910, a global e-club.
Highlights of the Zero Conference, February 2026 https://youtu.be/HVdNcFCd4m4?si=dnyTX6R_konUnUIs