"Being autistic or having a child with special needs should never be seen as a curse or burden, but rather as part of the diversity that strengthens communities."

This was the message emphasised during a neuro awareness walk held on April 25, 2026, by Mulan Neurodiversity School under the theme “Embracing difference, Empowering Every Ability.”

Chief Executive Officer of the school, Thara Mills Simmonds, urged society to move beyond misconceptions and embrace children with autism and other special needs as valued members of the community.

She noted that differences in how people’s brains work contribute to the richness of society and should be accepted rather than stigmatized.

“This work is for us to create the needed awareness and acceptance for our special needs children. We want to encourage the community to understand that being autistic or having a special needs person does not mean the person is a curse or a liability,” she said.

She further called on schools across the country to prioritize inclusive education, stressing that quality education should not be selective but accessible to all children, regardless of their needs.

Philanthropist Antoinette Wilkinson, who also spoke at the event, underscored the importance of public education on autism.

She explained that limited awareness often leads to misconceptions and unfair treatment of children with autism. “The kids have a lot of potential we can bring out, which will be essential to society,” she said, urging parents to seek early medical advice when they notice developmental differences in their children.

Mulan Neurodiversity School is also partnering with Party Tree Vocational Training School to run a skills empowerment programme on May 4, 2026, covering pastry making, soap making, and beverage production. The initiative aims to help parents gain financial independence while caring for their children.