The annual Autism Awareness Walk, held on Saturday, drew attention to the critical need for early intervention, inclusion, and empowerment for children with autism. Organised by a coalition of dedicated advocates, the event served as a platform to promote autism awareness and support for neurodivergent individuals.
Among the event’s organisers were Bolanle Adewole of The Learning Place Centre & The Learning Initiatives Africa; Dotun Akande of Patrick Speech and Language Centre; Mrs. Solape Azazi of Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative; and Mrs. Oyinkan Afolabi of Brainy Oaks Education Consultants. The walk attracted numerous partners and supporters across Lagos, highlighting the city’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment for people with autism.
The 4.5km walk, which began in Ikoyi and concluded at The Learning Place, aimed to deepen public understanding of autism and encourage inclusive practices in educational and social spaces. The walk also served as an opportunity for families and educators to come together, share experiences, and learn how best to support children on the autism spectrum.
In addition to the walk, the event featured a community session that included light stretching, networking opportunities, and inspiring speeches from experts in the field. Bolanle Adewole, Executive Director of The Learning Place Centre, delivered a compelling welcome address, while Mrs. Oyinkan Afolabi, Founder of Brainy Oaks Education Consultants, gave a community address focused on the importance of early intervention and societal acceptance of individuals with diverse abilities.
Afolabi took the opportunity to advocate for greater awareness and support for twice-exceptional (2E) individuals—those who are both gifted and neurodivergent.
“A child who is autistic spends hours being taught how to interact with others. Why don’t we spend time teaching others how to interact with them?”