T21 Alchemy

Oneness Sankara
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PARENTING

T21 Alchemy: Stories of Down Syndrome, Parenting and BelongingReal talk for parents, carers and allies raising children with Down syndrome, SEND or additional needs; newly diagnosed, pregnant, or supporting loved ones. Also for theatre makers exploring how lived experience becomes performance.Join Oneness Sankara -a Black British mum, playwright, SEND advocate- as she shares raw family experiences (not leaflets), communication breakthroughs, Black SEND realities, and her spoken word musical *T21 Alchemy*.New episodes cover:• Communication and language development  • Independence and future planning  • Parenting identity and relationships  • Turning real stories into theatre  If you've wondered "what does this journey actually become?"—this podcast holds that conversation.*Early episodes (The Purpose Pod) cover personal growth. New T21 Alchemy episodes focus on Down syndrome parenting, SEND advocacy and theatre.*

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    From Family Story to Stage: How T21 Alchemy Was Born

    In this episode, host Oneness Sankara shares how a personal family story became a spoken word musical through community workshops and collective storytelling. From poetic notes born of isolation and exhaustion → conversations with SEND parents → first public sharing at Certain Blacks Afro Future Festival- to the being joined by and amazing creative team to rehearse and develop the piece and share at The Albany Deptford. You'll hear: • The moment her story became bigger than one family  • Why theatre (not blog/talks) was right  • How she protected privacy while staying authentic  • Research themes: isolation, fighting systems, fear for futures  • Why spoken word musical (X-Men revelation included)  SHOW NOTES: About T21 Alchemy (the play): Spoken word musical exploring disability parenting, inclusion and African Caribbean British identity through a mother raising a T21 child. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to T21 Alchemy - the play  02:30 Why this story needed telling  05:45 Isolation disability parents face  08:20 From poetic notes → full play  11:15 Themes: unheard, judged, fighting systems  14:30 Why theatre? Collective power  17:00 Spoken word musical format  19:45 Personal vs community voices  22:30 Protecting family/community  25:00 Afro Future Festival debut (clip)  27:15 X-Men moment: possibility in diagnosis  R&D CREATIVES Writer/Performer: Oneness Sankara  BSL Performer: Jacqui Beckford  Dramaturg: Kwame Kwei-Armah  Director: Matthew Xia  Composer: Christella Litras  Producer: Michaela Waldram-Jones  Key Themes: Disability parenting • African Caribbean identity • Theatre as activism • Creative process  Connect: Instagram: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor   www.onenesssankara.com   Supported by Arts Council England T21 Alchemy podcast episodes and theatre R&D supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    29 min

  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    Beyond the Paperwork: Celebrating Our Extraordinary Ordinary Kids | T21 Alchemy

    Beyond the Paperwork: Celebrating Our Extraordinary Ordinary Kids | T21 Alchemy Dragons on buses, bank card heists, hydrogen peroxide interrogations—this is the joy we're fighting for. Host Oneness Sankara shares candid conversations with her son  (who has T21), flipping the script from advocacy fatigue to family brilliance. While other episodes tackle systems and struggle, E3 centres the chaotic, funny, precious moments that make parenting magic. What happens: Bank card heist: independence meets audacityHydrogen peroxide deep dive + dragons on London busesRock collections + "Mummy dashed me out!" origin storySinging Hands memories + www.singinghands.com phaseT21 Alchemy play excerptWhy admin shouldn't steal childhoodsTIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro with son 02:30 Celebrating joy over struggle 05:15 Bank card heist story 09:40 Singing Hands memories 12:20 Apedemak conversations 18:45 Ordinary moments matter 20:30 T21 Alchemy play excerpt 22:15 Afro-touching moment 23:00 Don't let admin steal childhoods Key Themes: Extraordinary ordinariness - Joy amid advocacy - Kids' brilliance - Systems vs family time Resources: Singing Hands (Makaton) - Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Connect: @t21alchemy Share your child's stories! Supported by Arts Council England T21 Alchemy podcast episodes and theatre R&D supported using public funding by Arts Council England. #DownSyndrome #T21 #SENDFamilies #Inclusion #Parenting Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    19 min

  3. 4 DAYS AGO

    Beyond Words: Understanding Speech and Communication in Down Syndrome (with Cathy Johnston)

    Host Oneness Sankara talks with speech therapist Cathy Johnston from the Lejeune Clinic about what parents really need to know about communication for children with Down syndrome (T21). What you'll learn: Speech vs communication—and why the difference changes everythingWhy speech carries such heavy emotional weight for familiesThe anatomy behind Down syndrome speech challengesWhen "early intervention" actually starts (it's simpler than you think)Practical home tools: Makaton, visual supports, parent-child interactionNeuroplasticity truth: there's no "missed boat" for your childKey takeaways: Your child communicates constantly, even without wordsParent interaction > formal therapy for language growthCommunication is everyone's job, not just yoursYou're doing enough. You're not alone.Resources: Lejeune Clinic - Makaton - Hanen "It Takes Two to Talk" - Speech and Language UK About Cathy Johnston: 20+ years as speech therapist specialising in under-5s with Down syndrome. Works with Lejeune Clinic + NHS, focusing on early intervention and family support. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro 00:53 Cathy Johnston introduction 02:40 Kathy's background 05:17 Parents' biggest communication worries 11:00 Speech vs communication 15:20 Why speech matters emotionally 20:00 Speech-biased society 23:00 Rhythm, music, vocalizing 27:00 Speech anatomy 30:00 Down syndrome speech challenges 32:00 Brain development/neuroplasticity 35:00 Early intervention reality 38:00 Parent advocacy balance 42:00 Communication as team effort 52:00 Makaton + visual tools 55:00 Parent-child interaction 60:00 Closing reassurance #DownSyndrome #T21 #SpeechTherapy #SEND #Parenting Resources Mentioned: Lejeune Clinic: www.lejeuneclinic.comMakaton:https: www.makaton.orgSee and Learn: www.seeandlearn.comHanen Program (It Takes Two to Talk): www.hanen.org  Speech and Language UK: www.speechandlanguage.org.ukPart of T21 Alchemy: Black SEND parenting, disability inclusion, and theatre storytelling. Instagram: @t21alchemy Supported by Arts Council England T21 Alchemy podcast episodes and theatre R&D supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    1h 15m

  4. 4 DAYS AGO

    Why I See My Child Differently - A Parent’s Beginning After Diagnosis

    Welcome to the T21 Alchemy Podcast; where lived experience meets creativity, advocacy, and radical inclusion. In this debut episode of a brand new season, host Oneness Sankara introduces a groundbreaking creative project born from her journey as a mother to a phenomenal 8-year-old with Down Syndrome (T21). This podcast sits alongside a developing play, exploring disability, parenting, and inclusion through real stories and conversations. In Episode 1, you'll discover: The moment that sparked the T21 Alchemy playWhy representation matters: the absence of Black and Brown families in Down Syndrome narrativesHow Malcolm Gladwell's research on talent and achievement challenged everything about "developmental delays"The self-fulfilling prophecy of low expectations in disability educationWhy early milestones don't determine successA powerful excerpt from the play confronting ignorance and ableismThis podcast is for: Parents, carers, educators, allies, and anyone committed to a more inclusive world that centres disabled families and communities. About the Host: Oneness Sankara is an artist, advocate, and mother using creativity as a tool for liberation and systemic change. 📌 Subscribe for upcoming episodes featuring play excerpts, conversations with SEND families, and deep dives into community, dignity, and access. #T21Alchemy #DownSyndrome #DisabilityAdvocacy #InclusionMatters #SENDFamilies #BlackDisability #CreativeActivism Note: This episode contains a single instance of mild language within an excerpt from the play. Supported by Arts Council England T21 Alchemy podcast episodes and theatre R&D supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    18 min
  5. Building an Integrated World One Perception at a Time (part of the T21 Alchemy Series)

    05/12/2023

    Building an Integrated World One Perception at a Time (part of the T21 Alchemy Series)

    This episode is a part of the T21 Alchemy Series, where we blend the magic of diversity, special needs, and conscious parenting to create a brighter, more inclusive world. In this special bonus episode, we're lean into the transformative power of challenging our own perceptions and biases. Join me on a brief yet impactful journey as I share my personal experiences and insights on making a difference, one person at a time. **Key Takeaways:** 1. The Ripple Effect: Learn how every small effort can create a ripple that leads to a more inclusive world. By challenging our own perceptions, we set an example for others to follow. 2. Walking in Someone Else's Shoes: I'll share an important moment from my own life where I confronted my own biases and stereotypes, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding. 3. Practical Steps: Discover a practical step for breaking free from preconceived notions, embracing diversity, and actively contributing to a more inclusive society. 4. Your Role: Understand the significant impact each one of us can have in breaking down barriers and fostering a more open-minded, accepting world. Join me in this short, thought-provoking episode as we collectively take steps to shatter stereotypes and build an inclusive world, one perception at a time. Together, we can make a difference. Jingles by @jb.rose.singing.vegan.mum Episode Ad libs by Apedemak Sankara Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    11 min
  6. Small Wins, Big Laughs: Celebrating Every Victory (part of the T21 Alchemy Series)

    28/11/2023

    Small Wins, Big Laughs: Celebrating Every Victory (part of the T21 Alchemy Series)

    This episode is a part of the T21 Alchemy Series, where we blend the magic of diversity, special needs, and conscious parenting to create a brighter, more inclusive world. In this brief and uplifting episode of T21 Alchemy Series, we're celebrating the magic of small wins and the incredible power of humour. Join me for a quick dose of joy as I share personal anecdotes that highlight the beauty of embracing these moments. **Key Discussion Points:** 1. Embracing the Little Victories:** I share personal examples of small but significant milestones. These brief moments of triumph are truly worth celebrating. 2. Humor's Healing Touch: In facing the ups and downs of our journey's it is illustrated how laughter can be a source of strength. 3.Positivity in a Nutshell: Discover how recognising little wins can create a positive and supportive atmosphere, making these brief moments of celebration even more special. This short episode is a burst of joy, emphasizing the beauty of every small win and the  touch of laughter. Join us for a dose of positivity and celebration in a brief yet delightful journey. Tune in, and let's share the magic of small wins and the joy of laughter. 🎙️🌟 Jingles by @jb.rose.singing.vegan.mum Episode Ad libs by Apedemak Sankara Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    11 min
  7. From Viral Births to Healing Hearts: A Journey of Love and Power with Amber Rojas

    21/11/2023

    From Viral Births to Healing Hearts: A Journey of Love and Power with Amber Rojas

    This episode is a part of the T21 Alchemy Series, where we blend the magic of diversity, special needs, and conscious parenting to create a brighter, more inclusive world. Embark on a riveting episode as Amber Rojas unfolds her amazing journey including extraordinary impact of her daughter's birth video; which went viral. We explore the layers of strength, healing, and the profound power of love in the face of adversity. From Viral Births to Healing Hearts: A Journey of Love and Power with Amber Rojas Key Discussion Points 1. Viral Births and Beyond: Amber shares the intimate story behind the viral video of her daughter Amadeus's birth. Delve into the emotions, challenges, and unexpected moments that defined her multiple birth journeys. 2. Navigating a Heart Operation: Hear firsthand about what it took to navigate a child's heart operation. Amber takes us through the highs, the lows, and everything inbetween 3. Handling Haters with Grace: Being in the public eye, Amber discusses the challenges of handling the negativity from detractors and social media haters . Discover how she manages to rise above the noise, maintaining a positive outlook focused on what's best for Amadeus and the rest of her family. 4. Balancing Motherhood: As a single mother raising five children, one with Down syndrome, Amber sheds light on the distinctive challenges and joys of motherhood. Discover her insights into creating a supportive and nurturing environment for all her children, especially Amadeus. 5. Lessons in Advocacy and Community Building: Amber is a beacon of support within the special needs community. From cohosting virtual events to launching the "Diversity and Down" podcast, discover the lessons she's learned about advocacy, fostering community, and the transformative power of "getting comfortable by being uncomfortable." Tune in for an emotional and empowering conversation that transcends the ordinary, as we explore the depths of Amber Rojas' journey—a journey marked by viral moments, heartfelt challenges, and the triumph of love with her beautiful family. Follow Amber @justwhenyouthinkshesdown Jingles by @jb.rose.singing.vegan.mum Episode Ad libs by Apedemak Sankara Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    1h 11m
  8. Spaces for authenticity: The Power of Inclusive Communities for People with Disabilities and their loved ones

    15/11/2023 · BONUS

    Spaces for authenticity: The Power of Inclusive Communities for People with Disabilities and their loved ones

    This episode is a part of the T21 Alchemy Series, where we blend the magic of diversity, special needs, and conscious parenting to create a brighter, more inclusive world. In this heartfelt episode of The Purpose Pod: T21 Alchemy Series, we delve into the profound significance of cultivating inclusive communities for individuals with disabilities and their loved ones. Join us as we explore the transformative power of being seen and the freedom to express oneself without the need for apologies or explanations. Key Discussion Point This discussion highlights the importance of embracing authenticity and fostering environments where individuals feel empowered to express themselves without the burden of societal expectations or the need to justify their existence. Tune in as we celebrate the beauty of inclusive communities and the freedom to express oneself authentically, fostering a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued for their unique contributions. Jingles by @jb.rose.singing.vegan.mum Episode Ad libs by Apedemak Sankara Support the show Stay connected with T21 Alchemy: @t21alchemy @thepurposementor on Instagram

    11 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

T21 Alchemy: Stories of Down Syndrome, Parenting and BelongingReal talk for parents, carers and allies raising children with Down syndrome, SEND or additional needs; newly diagnosed, pregnant, or supporting loved ones. Also for theatre makers exploring how lived experience becomes performance.Join Oneness Sankara -a Black British mum, playwright, SEND advocate- as she shares raw family experiences (not leaflets), communication breakthroughs, Black SEND realities, and her spoken word musical *T21 Alchemy*.New episodes cover:• Communication and language development  • Independence and future planning  • Parenting identity and relationships  • Turning real stories into theatre  If you've wondered "what does this journey actually become?"—this podcast holds that conversation.*Early episodes (The Purpose Pod) cover personal growth. New T21 Alchemy episodes focus on Down syndrome parenting, SEND advocacy and theatre.*

Information

  • Creator
    Oneness Sankara
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 T21 Alchemy
  • Show Website
    T21 Alchemy