Autism resource centre calls for community support
"As an after-care center, we wanted to share the support with a 24-hour care facility," said Ndlovu.
You Are Not Alone Women and Family Centre (YANA) recently hosted an empowerment event, the Iziko Women Empowerment Indaba, at Redemption Church Greenstone.
Designed as a platform for knowledge, healing, and personal growth, the free event encouraged women to prioritise their well-being while learning from an esteemed panel of speakers from diverse backgrounds.
Featured on the panel was local Edenvale resident, clinician, and pastor Lindiwe Ndlovu.
As the founder of the Keakgona Kefentse Autism Resource Centre, an ‘autism mother,’ and a breast cancer navigator, Ndlovu delivered a compelling talk on the unique challenges facing parents of neurodivergent children.
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The indaba fostered a strong sense of unity, emphasising the importance of supporting caregivers and creating a more informed, compassionate community around autism care.
Reflecting on the event, Ndlovu shared that she took the podium alongside a psychologist from the Department of Education.
“When it came time for questions, attendees asked how they could help families living with children on the spectrum,” said Ndlovu.
“The biggest takeaway from the presentation was learning about the after-care services we offer as the centre.”
“We conduct home visits to offer caregivers practical support and coping strategies. Caregivers need to stabilise their own emotions to create a conducive environment for the child,” she explained.
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“At our facility, we work with Khutso Melematja, a behaviour specialist and founder of Jigsaw Puzzle Academy, who focuses on essential life skills.
“Potty training is essential at an early age. Children who require extra care are taught using tailored methods, because every child’s needs are different.” As demand for their services grows, the centre is facing spatial and operational constraints.
“We now have four caregivers assisting at the facility, but as the number of children increases, the space is getting smaller. We now have seven children in our aftercare programme.
Children from Germiston, Midrand and Esther Park, to name a few. Each child needs space and time to develop,” Ndlovu noted.
“We urgently need soft toys and equipment to renovate our sensory room, including a replacement for our worn-out trampoline. Our biggest ongoing challenge is diet, so donations of non-perishable food items and toiletries would make a huge difference.”
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Despite these resource challenges, the centre continues to give back. The Keakgona Kefentse Autism Resource Centre recently received a donation of groceries, soft toys, and blankets from the Chinese Business Community as part of their Mandela Day initiative.
Upon receiving the donation, Ndlovu chose to share the supplies with the Lutendo Centre for Special People.
“As an after-care centre, we wanted to share the support with a 24-hour care facility,” said Ndlovu.
“Their need is massive. While we all have needs, I strongly believe that strategic partnerships are crucial because they build long-term support systems.”
Because the Keakgona Kefentse Autism Resource Centre currently operates entirely through self-funding, Ndlovu encourages community members, local businesses, and donors to step forward and support their cause.
To donate or learn more about supporting the NPO, contact Pastor Lindiwe Ndlovu by phone or WhatsApp at 081 741 0088.
