Welcoming Sujay Kolli to the GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit Team: Building an Inclusive Future Through Internships

At GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit, we believe in celebrating abilities, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Sujay Kolli as our new Social Media Intern! Sujay is not only a recent graduate of Ferris State University’s Ready for Life program, but also an accomplished content creator, brand builder, and Paralympic gold medalist. His journey is a powerful example of how meaningful opportunities can unlock talent, drive, and purpose.

Sujay’s passion for content creation sparked during college, where he studied Marketing, Business, Photography, and Digital Media. Since then, he has launched his own brand, HeyThereFromSujay, creating reels and storytelling content that reflect his vibrant personality and inspire others. He’s even been featured in the documentary What’s My Superpower and previously worked as a Social Media Intern for the City of Novi.

Sujay shared in his biography, “I love people, I learn from watching others, and I get inspired from watching others—as well as I want to be an inspiration to others too.” That spirit of connection and inspiration makes him the perfect addition to our team, where he’ll support content creation, storytelling, and digital engagement across our social media platforms.

The Power of Inclusive Employment

Sujay’s internship with GiGi’s Playhouse is more than just a professional milestone—it represents the kind of inclusive opportunity that every individual deserves, regardless of ability.

Did you know?

• Only 20.1% of individuals with disabilities were employed in 2022, compared to 65.4% of individuals without disabilities (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• People with Down syndrome face even steeper challenges, with only about 3% to 4% holding paid community jobs (National Down Syndrome Society).
• However, when given a chance, individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities are shown to have high job satisfaction, strong work ethic, and bring valuable diversity and creativity to workplaces.

Internships like Sujay’s are vital stepping stones that help individuals with disabilities gain real-world experience, build confidence, and showcase their abilities in environments that value inclusion. These opportunities also allow organizations to grow in empathy, innovation, and representation—benefiting the entire community.

Why It Matters at GiGi’s

At GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit, we are committed to not only serving individuals with Down syndrome—but to empowering them. From our educational and therapeutic programs to our volunteer and employment pathways, we believe in fostering growth, independence, and purpose.

Sujay’s role is a testament to this mission. By joining our team as a Social Media Intern, he’s not only building his own career path—he’s paving the way for others to do the same.

Join Us in Celebrating

We are so excited to see Sujay shine in his new role, and we invite you to follow his journey by keeping up with our social media channels and his brand, HeyThereFromSujay and YouTube. You’ll see firsthand how ability, creativity, and community come together at GiGi’s.

Let’s continue to advocate for inclusive employment, celebrate the achievements of individuals like Sujay, and work together toward a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.