Kochi Spotlight is an intergenerational open mic initiative launched under the Age-Friendly Kochi City program coordinated by CEDAC. Held on the first Sunday at Subhash Bose Park and the fourth Sunday at Nehru Park, Fort Kochi, the program brings together older adults and youth in a vibrant, inclusive public setting.
Through music, poetry, storytelling, and cultural performances, the program transcends age barriers and celebrates the continued vibrancy of older persons. The program also recognises and felicitates older adults with notable achievements, directly fighting ageism and promoting positive perceptions of ageing.
Hundreds of people participate or attend each month, enhancing social participation, mental well-being, and civic inclusion of older adults. Key collaborators include Kochi Municipal Corporation, student volunteers, local cultural groups, and community organisations.
The initiative has proven to be scalable, replicable, and a powerful tool for community engagement, contributing directly to the WHO’s vision of age-friendly environments that promote respect, inclusion, and active ageing.