On the 10th April 2025, Nana Konadu-Aboagye, representing GUBA Foundation, delivered a session on the topic ‘Understanding Autism from the Lens of a SENCO’ to members of the Faith Regime Foundation (led by Dr. Nujhat), a Bangladeshi community group based in East London as part of our ‘Autism I am Not a Stigma’ project.

During the session, they explored cultural issues that are prevalent not only within the Bangladeshi community but also reflected some of the challenges faced in the Ghanaian community regarding the stigma surrounding Special Educational Needs (SEN). This parallel highlighted the universal nature of these issues, prompting a deep and meaningful dialogue.

Some of the most pressing questions that emerged during the session included: “Are interrelationship marriages causing autism?” and “Will our communities ever fully accept autism?” These inquiries sparked a robust discussion, allowing participants to explore their beliefs and assumptions surrounding autism and SEN. 

The atmosphere throughout the event was incredibly welcoming, characterized by a genuine willingness to understand and support parents navigating the complexities of raising a child with special educational needs. This openness created a safe space for sharing experiences and fostering a collective commitment to enhancing awareness and acceptance within the community. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that underscored the importance of dialogue and understanding in dispelling stigma and promoting support for families affected by autism.

Nana Konadu-Aboagye said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my recent engagement with the Bangladeshi community to raise awareness about autism. This experience felt akin to returning home, as I was raised in Tower Hamlets, a community that shares many cultural and social connections with the one I was addressing”.