Westonaria unites for Autism Awareness Walk
The event gave people living with autism an opportunity to share their experiences and advocate for inclusion.
Hundreds of learners from Itumeleng School for Learners With Special Needs recently joined community members, staff from the Rand West City Special Projects Office and the Road Accident Fund for an Autism Awareness Walk in Westonaria.
Principal Meide Motlhabane described the event as a resounding success aimed at raising awareness and promoting a better understanding of autism.
“Thank everyone for honouring this day. We therefore need support from all walks of life, including businesses, government and the community at large,” she said.
Guest speaker Lyreke Kleynhans, who is living with autism, also appealed to society to accept and include people on the autism spectrum.
“We need a sense of belonging. Learners with autism also have skills. I advocate for us to be understood; we want acceptance,” said Kleynhans from the Autism National Office.
A teacher at the school, Dabby Motjuadi, expressed satisfaction with the event.
“It was a first-of-its-kind experience. There were certain logistical and organisational challenges, but these should be seen as part of the learning curve,” she said.
