Alina Alam is the Founder and CEO of Mitti Café, the world's largest chain of cafés managed by people with physical, intellectual and psychiatric disabilities.

At 23, with no startup capital and facing countless rejections, Alina relied on community support to bring her vision to life. From donated equipment to a simple table under an umbrella, her initiative grew into the world’s largest chain of cafés run entirely by persons with disabilities.

Mitti Café works towards economic independence and dignity for persons with disabilities. The organisation’s outreach initiative helps create awareness about inclusion and disability rights.

Alina’s journey with Mitti Café began with a dream to showcase the abilities of individuals with disabilities and a belief in equal opportunities for all. Today, Mitti Café operates in nearly 63 locations across India, including prestigious sites such as the Supreme Court, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Rashtrapati Nilayam and major airports.

Leaders such as Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Honourable President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu, Honouable Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Infosys Founder Narayana Murthy have lauded Alina’s efforts, with the Defence Minister and Lok Sabha Speaker inaugurating Mitti Cafés, sending a powerful message of inclusion.

In 2024, Alina received the National Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities from the President of India. She has also been listed on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list and has received national and international recognition from the United Nations, Commonwealth, NITI Aayog, UNESCO, Rotary, and TieCon for her impactful work.

Under Alina’s leadership, Mitti Café has created over 6,500 livelihoods, served over 21.8 million meals and provided 8.8 million ‘Karuna Meals’ to vulnerable communities.

For Alina, Mitti Café is not just a café – it’s a global movement for dignity, empowerment and inclusion, aiming to transform a billion lives.