Celebrating superheroes at Tugela’s autism awareness play
Under the theme, ‘Embracing Neurodiversity,” the play aimed to raise awareness of autism and to celebrate the superpowers of the children living with the learning disability.
In a touching display of inclusion and empathy, learners living with autism staged an autism awareness play last Wednesday (April 17) at the Tugela Pre-Vocational School.
Opening the day’s proceedings, Tugela Pre-Vocational School principal, Riaan du Plessis, gave an illuminating speech about what makes each child with autism special.
“We are here to chat about our awesome, super brains that we have. At times we are wired a bit different but that is what makes each of us wonderful and unique.
“It’s like we have a superpower that makes our brains even more awesome,” he told the learners, teachers and school officials gathered at the school hall.
Du Plessis urged all learners to embrace each other’s differences.
“Some people might not understand but what is important is that we treat each other with love and respect, support each other and cheer for each other,” he continued.
“When we embrace our differences, that’s when we make a rainbow of talents.”
It was then over to Dumiso Qwabe, a learner who recited a poem titled, ‘I’m glad to be autistic’
Diagnosed with autism at eight years old, Ndumiso says he was confused and scared but it also explained the funny feelings and the sensory pains he felt for so long.
“Even through it all, I’m glad to be autistic because I am magnificently unique. I wouldn’t change it for the world,” said Ndumiso to resounding applause.
The guests were treated to a song and dance number by the group that got even the stiffest legs tapping. Learner Awande Nkabinde showed off his talented vocalling ability, belting a rendition of the song ‘Rise.’
Overall, the learners carried out the perfect way to teach about the often-misunderstood disability whilst also showing the unique intelligence of all the children who dare to walk to the beat of their own drum.
See photos below:
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