Speech for World Autism Awareness Day 2025

Presented by the Chairman of The Zeebah Foundation

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my esteemed honor to address you today on behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and cherished children of The Zeebah Foundation. I am a proud parent of a child with autism, and it is with deep pride that I stand before you today as the Chairman of this foundation.

The Zeebah Foundation was born from a personal need to support families of children with autism—a journey I intimately understand. As a parent of a child with autism, I’ve experienced firsthand the overwhelming feelings of helplessness and frustration when navigating uncharted territory—seeking answers, securing professional help, and balancing the daily demands of life. However, my child’s access to early intervention therapies has had a profound and transformative impact on our lives. This experience has fueled my commitment to The Zeebah Foundation, which aims to empower families with the resources, support, and guidance they need to unlock their children’s full potential.

Today, we come together to celebrate not only our commitment to autism awareness, but also the remarkable achievements of an extraordinary individual—Kanyeyachukwu Okeke, who has set a Guinness World Record for creating the world’s largest art canvas by an individual. We at The Zeebah Foundation have had the privilege of supporting Kanyeyachukwu since 2019, and we’ve had the honor of watching his remarkable journey unfold. His dedication and talent are an inspiration to us all.

This monumental achievement is not just a testament to his artistic abilities, but also a powerful symbol of what can be accomplished when individuals with autism are given the opportunity to pursue their passions and contribute to society. It is this very spirit of advancing neurodiversity that we are here to celebrate today.

As we reflect on the theme of World Autism Awareness Day 2025, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” we are reminded of the profound connection between neurodiversity and the broader global goals for a more inclusive, just, and sustainable world. The United Nations’ SDGs serve as a roadmap to build a future where no one is left behind. But how do we ensure that the neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—are included in these goals? The answer lies in advancing neurodiversity, fostering inclusion, and creating equal opportunities.

One of the core SDGs we aim to advance is Goal 4: Quality Education, ensuring that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to inclusive, equitable, and quality education. Children with autism deserve an education system that recognizes their unique learning needs and provides tailored support. At The Zeebah Foundation, we are committed to making this a reality by ensuring that children on the autism spectrum can access the resources and learning environments they need to succeed.

Additionally, Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth calls for the empowerment of all individuals to achieve meaningful employment. Individuals with autism possess incredible skills, often in areas like pattern recognition, attention to detail, and innovative thinking—skills that can greatly benefit the workforce. By promoting inclusive employment practices and workplace accommodations, we can ensure that neurodiverse individuals have the opportunity to contribute their talents to the economy, just as Kanyeyachukwu has done through his art.

Furthermore, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities is critical in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with autism, who often encounter barriers in healthcare, education, and employment. This goal emphasizes the need to reduce disparities and ensure that neurodiverse individuals are not marginalized or excluded. Through initiatives like The Zeebah Foundation, we are actively working to provide equal opportunities for children on the autism spectrum, ensuring they receive the support they need to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Our Building Project, which will create a 5,000-square-meter resource center dedicated to supporting children on the autism spectrum, is a direct response to the call for inclusive infrastructure and resources. The center will provide essential services for a minimum of 200 children, including residential accommodations for at least 50 individuals, and sponsorship opportunities for 20 beneficiaries. This project embodies our commitment to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, as we aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with autism can thrive.

As we celebrate Kanyeyachukwu Okeke’s achievement today, let us remember that his story is just one example of the extraordinary potential of individuals with autism. His Guinness World Record serves as a reminder that the barriers that often limit the neurodiverse community are not inherent to the individuals themselves, but to the societal structures and mindsets that need to evolve.

As Kanyeyachukwu sets his sights on achieving his second Guinness World Record for the largest art canvas by an individual, we stand beside him, proud of his accomplishments and hopeful for the future of all individuals with autism. His success exemplifies the very essence of advancing neurodiversity, proving that when neurodiverse individuals are given the right support and opportunities, they can break barriers and achieve greatness.

Today, as we commemorate World Autism Awareness Day 2025, we embrace the theme “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals”. This day is not only about raising awareness but about taking meaningful steps to build a world where neurodiversity is celebrated, and where every individual, regardless of their neurological makeup, has the opportunity to live, learn, and contribute to society.

Let us continue to push for the inclusion of neurodiverse individuals in every aspect of life—from education to employment, from healthcare to community building. Let us work towards a future that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, where neurodiversity is not only acknowledged but embraced as an essential part of a sustainable and equitable world.

Thank you