GTCO Autism Conference Shines Light on Hope, Inclusion, Endless Possibilities

By Lami Patrick

The just concluded autism conference organized by Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) in Lagos provided a platform for stakeholders including parents, caregivers, advocates and professionals to share inspiring stories of living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The event with the theme: “A Spectrum of Possibilities”, underscored the limitless potentials of individuals on the autism spectrum when given the right support and opportunities.

In his opening remarks, GTCO’s MD/CEO, Segun Agbaje, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to raising awareness and foster inclusivity for people with autism.
“Each step we take is a testament to our dedication and the incredible impact we can achieve when we come together for a shared cause. Autism advocacy is not just a passion; it is a responsibility we all share,” he emphasized.

Agbaje praised the theme of the conference, noting how it highlights the strength, resilience and possibilities of individuals with autism, while calling for a society that embraces acceptance and inclusion for them and their families. He stressed the importance of removing the stigma often associated with autism, reshaping conversations to focus on abilities rather than limitations.

Stories of Resilience and Innovation

Nadia Hamilton, an entrepreneur inspired by her autistic brother, Troy, shared her journey of creating “Magnus Cards”, a mobile app that provides step-by-step visual guides to help neurodivergent individuals navigate everyday tasks. “I wanted to make things easier for my brother and others like him.

“Magnus Cards supports independent living and bridges communication gaps for autistic individuals,” Hamilton explained, adding that her brother excels at playing the piano and even assists their father in construction work.

Camille Proctor, Founder of The Color of Autism Foundation, reflected on her advocacy journey, which began after her son was diagnosed with ASD at the age of two.

Proctor emphasized the importance of allowing autistic individuals pursue their passion. “My son loves to cook and bake.

“We, as parents, must give them the space and opportunities to thrive in what they love to do,” she urged. Proctor encouraged caregivers not to shy away from seeking the best for their children. “Show them love, give them a solid foundation and never take them for granted.”

Remi Olutimayin, an autistic voice director, actor and producer, inspired the audience with his achievements. As Africa’s first internationally ranked voice actor in animation, Olutimayin has worked on award-winning projects like ‘Ajaka, Lost in Rome’ and ‘Our Own Area Animated Series’. He shared this advice for those on the spectrum: “Express yourself clearly. Follow your curiosities. They can lead to independence and success.”

Integrating Autistic Individuals Into The Society

Oluwatomi Agboola Odeleye, a legal speech and language therapist, stressed the importance of providing autistic individuals with a means to communicate.

“Regardless of whether they are verbal or non-verbal, communication tools like iPads, symbols or communication boards can empower them to express their needs and desires,” he said.

Odeleye also advocated finding employment opportunities for high-functioning individuals, noting that many can attend school and eventually live independently if given the right support.

Lanre Duyile, President/CEO of Behaviorprise Consulting, emphasized the need to focus on the possibilities rather than the limitations of individuals with ASD. He highlighted that autistic individuals often offer unique insights into the world, challenging misconceptions about their abilities. “It is not just about what they cannot do—it is about what they can do,” Duyile remarked.

Challenges And Strengths Of Autism

Dr. Bernadette Kilo, a Cameroonian medical doctor and mother of three autistic children, shared her experiences of raising her sons and daughter, whom she lovingly refers to as “Bit boy,” “the mathematician,” and “the headmistress.” She urged the society to redefine autism by focusing on its strengths, like pattern recognition and non-verbal communication.

“Autistic children may not communicate in conventional ways, but they use gestures, sensory behaviors and patterns to express themselves. We must learn to listen with more than just our ears,” she explained.

Kilo called for an end to the stigma surrounding autism, stating that, “If we learn to define autism by its strengths rather than its challenges, we will begin to eliminate fear and stigma.”

Caregiver Challenges

Caregivers also shared their experiences.

Quadri Fatima Bolanle, Programme Coordinator and Director at Heart and Soul Centre, a special needs school in Ibadan, lamented the financial and emotional challenges faced by caregivers. “Many parents are reluctant to invest in their children’s education, preferring to spend elsewhere. We often have to use our personal resources to meet their needs, including medical care,” she explained.

Despite the difficulties, Bolanle remains hopeful. “We do this consistently, hoping for improvement. There are setbacks, but as trained caregivers, we never give up, believing that one day these children will respond better to therapy,” she said.