Tsakani – Parents from different walks of life gathered at the Tsakane Mall entrance on April 10 as part of an awareness campaign led by the Pholosong Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinic group.

The group, made up of parents raising children with autism, is actively working to fight the stigma surrounding the disorder and promote understanding within communities.

Their initiative, which later continued at the corner of Modjaji Street, formed part of the activities marking Autism Awareness Month. Motorists driving past were encouraged to hoot in support, showing solidarity with the cause.

Initiative organiser, Mbali Cebekhulu, said the group is committed to educating communities and supporting parents raising children on the autism spectrum.

“Our focus is on educating the Tsakane and surrounding communities about autism and helping people better understand children living with the condition,” she said.

“We are a group of mothers who support each other. Our goal is to raise awareness and teach the community about autism, so they understand our children and treat them with care and respect.”

Cebekhulu highlighted that one of the biggest challenges remains the lack of understanding, which often leads to stigma and isolation for both children and their parents.

“As parents, we aim to break these stigmas through continuous awareness campaigns and community engagement. It is still difficult because many people do not understand autism. Even some parents are in denial about their children’s condition,” she added.

Another organiser, Tholakele Mahlangu, encouraged parents who may be struggling to accept or understand autism to seek professional help as early as possible.

“This includes consulting psychologists, occupational therapists, and other specialists who can assist with diagnosis and support.

“Parents must seek help and understand that autism is a spectrum. With the right support and, where necessary, therapy, children can improve and thrive,” she said.

Mahlangu also shared her personal journey, explaining how she first noticed developmental differences in her child while studying early childhood development. After seeking professional advice, her child was diagnosed with autism.

“It was a difficult journey at first, but with support and understanding, I have learned to accept and fully support my child,” she said.

She urged parents not to hide their children out of fear of judgment.

“Children need to be seen and understood. Hiding them only increases the lack of awareness in our communities,” she added.

The group also advises parents to keep their children engaged in activities such as swimming, jumping castles, and social play, as these contribute to development and interaction.

This is not the group’s first initiative, as they host awareness activities annually. Their efforts include community events and fundraising initiatives, such as an upcoming car wash to support their programmes.

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The group is also calling on sponsors and stakeholders to assist with resources, particularly a dedicated space where parents and children can gather regularly for support sessions.

“We need a space where we can meet, even if it is just once a week or monthly, to support each other as parents,” Mahlangu said.

She further emphasised the importance of appropriate schooling, noting that while some children attend special schools, others are accommodated in mainstream schools depending on their individual needs.

The group continues to advocate for greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of children with autism in all areas of society.