“Autism is not a disability, but a different ability.” Today on The Buzz with Danu, we’re stepping into a conversation that goes beyond awareness—toward understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. I’m thrilled to introduce a remarkable initiative that’s making waves in Sri Lanka this year—the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk 2025.

Organized by Miracle Hands, a pioneer in early childhood education for over 15 years, this event is not just about walking together for a day. It’s about walking toward a future where every child, regardless of their neurodiversity, is valued, supported, and empowered.

In Sri Lanka, families of children with autism still face countless challenges—from accessing education and services to overcoming social stigma. But through initiatives like this, we can break those barriers and create a society where inclusion isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality.

Today, we’ll explore the inspiration behind this incredible movement, the impact it hopes to create, and how each of us can play a part in making a real difference. So stay with me as we dive into a conversation that’s not just about awareness, but about building a more compassionate and inclusive future.

1. What inspired you to organize the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk, and what message do you hope to share with the community through this event?

The inspiration behind organizing the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk comes from our deep commitment to creating an inclusive society where every child, regardless of their neurodiversity, is understood, accepted, and empowered. Miracle Hands has been at the forefront of early childhood education for over 15 years, and we witness firsthand the challenges and triumphs of children with autism and their families. This walk is our way of advocating for their rights, raising awareness, and fostering a more compassionate community.

2. April is recognized as World Autism Awareness Month. How does this walk contribute to spreading awareness and fostering inclusivity in Sri Lanka?

Through this event, we aim to send a strong message: autism is not a disability but a different ability. By increasing awareness and understanding, we can break stereotypes, encourage early intervention, and build a supportive environment where children with autism can thrive. We want to remind society that acceptance and inclusion begin with awareness, and every step taken in this walk symbolizes our collective effort toward a more inclusive future.

Sadly Sri Lanka has a long way to go in terms of providing a condusive and a more supportive enviroment in education, employment, access to services and even the legal system and law enforcement.

3. Can you tell us a bit about the journey and growth of the event over the years? How has the response been from the community?

 Honestly 

This year marks the first edition of the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk, making it a significant milestone for us. While we don’t have past events of this nature to reflect on, the enthusiasm and support we’ve already received from families, educators, and community members have been incredibly encouraging.

As this is our inaugural event, we see it as the foundation for a long-term movement. We hope to build on this initiative each year—expanding participation, increasing outreach, and making an even greater impact. The overwhelming response from the community so far reassures us that there is a strong desire for greater autism awareness and advocacy.

4. How do you ensure that this walk is not just an event but a meaningful experience for individuals with autism and their families?

We can only be optimistic that this first walk will "spark" an ongoing tradition—one that will grow in strength and reach over the years. Our goal is to continue raising awareness, strengthening support networks, and ensuring that every child with autism feels seen, valued, and included. This effort is one of many ways through which we can speak to the hearts of all stakeholders who can make a difference.

5. What kind of support or participation are you expecting from the public this year, and how can people contribute beyond attending the walk?

As this is our very first Miracle Autism Awareness Walk, we are hoping for strong participation from individuals, families, educators, and community members who believe in the importance of autism awareness and inclusion. We welcome anyone and everyone to join us in walking together, showing support, and helping spread the message that every child deserves to be understood and accepted.

Beyond attending the walk, there are many meaningful ways people can contribute:

Spread Awareness – Share information about autism and the event on social media, in schools, workplaces, and within local communities. The more people understand autism, the more inclusive our society becomes.
Volunteer – We are looking for volunteers to help with organizing, logistics, and supporting participants during the event. Whether assisting with registrations, guiding walkers, or helping with activities, every role makes a difference.

Advocate Beyond the Event – The walk is just the beginning. We encourage everyone to continue advocating for autism awareness by promoting inclusive education, supporting families, and encouraging workplaces and public spaces to be more accommodating.

Engage with Miracle Hands – Stay connected with us through our programs, workshops, and initiatives. Whether as a parent, educator, or supporter, there are many ways to be involved in the ongoing mission of fostering early childhood education and autism acceptance.

We believe that real change happens when communities come together, and we are excited to see the positive impact this event will create. Everyone has a role to play, and even the smallest act of support can make a big difference in the lives of children and families affected by autism.

6. How do events like this help break stereotypes and promote acceptance of individuals with autism in society?

Events like the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk play a crucial role in challenging misconceptions, fostering understanding, and promoting acceptance of individuals with autism. Here’s how:

Increasing Public Awareness – Many stereotypes about autism stem from a lack of knowledge. This walk provides an opportunity to educate the communityabout what autism truly is and how it affects individuals differently. By sharing real stories and experiences, we can dispel myths and replace them with facts and understanding.
Encouraging Meaningful Conversations – When people come together for a cause, post -event it creates a safe space for future open discussions. This helps shift the focus from stigma to acceptance, allowing families and individuals with autism to feel seen, heard, and valued.

Highlighting Strengths, Not Just Challenges – Society often focuses on the challenges associated with autism, but events like this showcase the unique talents, abilities, and contributions of individuals on the spectrum. By celebrating these strengths, we promote a more inclusive and strengths-based perspective.
Fostering Community Support – When people walk together in solidarity, it sends a powerful message of unity. It reassures individuals with autism and their families that they are not alone and that their community supports and embraces them.

Encouraging Inclusive Mindsets – Exposure to autism-friendly events helps change the way society interacts with individuals on the spectrum. Whether it’s in schools, workplaces, or social settings, people become more understanding and accommodating when they actively participate in such initiatives.
Inspiring Action Beyond the Walk – The awareness raised during the event doesn’t end when the walk is over. It inspires individuals, organizations, and policymakers to advocate for inclusive policies, support autism-friendly programs, and promote equal opportunities for all.

By organizing this event, we hope to spark lasting change, ensuring that individuals with autism are not just accepted but truly embraced and included in all aspects of society.

7. Beyond awareness, are there any long-term advocacy goals or initiatives that stem from this event?

 As indicated, this walk is our first and just the beginning. We hope to use the momentum from this event to inspire long-term commitment to autism acceptance and advocacy. By taking collective action—whether through education, policy change, or community support—we can ensure a future where individuals with autism are not just accommodated but fully embraced and empowered.

8. What challenges do families and individuals with autism in Sri Lanka face, and how can communities be more supportive?

In Sri Lanka, families and individuals with autism face several challenges that impact their daily lives, access to education, and overall inclusion in society. Some of the key difficulties include:

Limited Awareness & Social Stigma – Despite growing awareness, misconceptions and stigma around autism persist. Many families face judgment or discrimination, making it difficult for them to seek support openly. Communities must actively work to eliminate stigma by educating themselves about autism. Hosting awareness programs in schools, workplaces, and public spaces can foster understanding and empathy.

Lack of Early Diagnosis & Intervention– Early detection and intervention are crucial for a child’s development, yet many families struggle to access timely diagnosis and therapies due to a lack of specialized professionals, especially in rural areas. Currently, many of these facilities are available in the private sector but not accessible to many due to high cost. The government needs to intervene and build special units across the country beyond the big cities as a function of the main government hospital in the area.

Inadequate Educational Support – While inclusive education is improving, many schools are not equipped to support children with autism. There is a shortage of trained special education teachers, adaptive learning tools, and autism-friendly teaching methods. Schools should have trained teachers, sensory-friendly classrooms, and adaptive learning methods to help children with autism succeed alongside their peers.

Limited Access to Therapy & Services– Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral interventions are essential for children on the spectrum, but these services are often expensive and not widely available. Many families, especially in rural areas, face financial and geographical barriers to accessing proper care. Governments, NGOs, and private organizations can work together to expand therapy centers, provide affordable services, and offer financial aid programs for families in need.

Employment & Social Inclusion Barriers – Many individuals with autism face challenges in finding meaningful employment, as workplaces are often not accommodating to neurodiverse individuals. This leads to underemployment and social exclusion. Workplaces can adopt inclusive hiring practices by providing skills training, workplace accommodations, and autism-friendly work environments to ensure equal opportunities.

Emotional & Financial Strain on Families – Raising a child with autism requires long-term emotional, physical, and financial investment. Many parents struggle with stress, burnout, and financial burdens due to the high cost of therapies and lack of support systems. The government and policymakers must prioritize better healthcare access, funding for autism programs, and legal protections for individuals with autism to ensure their rights and well-being.

10. How can other corporates, organizations, and individuals step up to support future events or related causes?

How Corporates & Organizations Can Help:

Sponsorship & Funding – Businesses can provide financial support to sustain awareness campaigns, therapy programs, and community initiatives. Sponsoring events like the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk helps amplify the impact and reach of such initiatives.

Creating Inclusive Workplaces – Companies can implement neurodiverse hiring policies, offer workplace accommodations, and provide training for employees to ensure individuals with autism have equal job opportunities.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives – Businesses can integrate autism awareness and support into their CSR programs by partnering with autism-focused NGOs, funding special education programs, or offering employee volunteer opportunities.

Hosting Awareness & Training Programs – Corporations can organize training sessions for employees and the community to promote understanding of autism and encourage more inclusive environments in workplaces and public spaces.

Providing Scholarships & Financial Aid– Organizations can establish scholarships, grants, or financial assistance programs to help families access therapies, special education, and essential resources for children with autism.
How Individuals Can Help:

Volunteering – People can volunteer at autism-related events, support organizations that work with neurodiverse individuals, or assist families in need.

Advocating & Spreading Awareness – Individuals can use their platforms—whether social media, workplaces, or community groups—to educate others about autism, challenge stereotypes, and promote acceptance.
Supporting Autism-Friendly Businesses & Initiatives – Choosing to support businesses that employ or accommodate individuals with autismhelps create an economy that values inclusion.

Fundraising & Donations – Whether through personal donations, crowdfunding, or organizing fundraising events, individuals can contribute to autism support services and initiatives.

Engaging in Policy Advocacy – Individuals can petition for better government policies, push for improved special education support, and encourage inclusive policies at local and national levels.

11. What has been the most rewarding or emotional moment for you while working on this project?

 Since this is the very first Miracle Autism Awareness Walk, the entire journey of planning and bringing this event to life has been deeply rewarding. However, one of the most emotional and inspiring moments has been seeing the overwhelming support and enthusiasm from families, educators, and the community—even before the event has taken place.  

 It has also been incredibly rewarding to witness the passion and dedication of our very own teachers and private organisations in media and apparel who have joined as partners, —everyone coming together with a shared purpose, determined to make this event a success. Seeing the community rally behind this cause reminds us that change starts with awareness, but real impact comes from action.  

12. Do you have any personal stories or encounters that have reinforced your commitment to this cause?

Absolutely. This cause is deeply personal to me because my own son is on the autism spectrum. My journey as a parent has given me firsthand experience of both the challenges and the incredible joys that come with raising a child with autism.

I have been blessed to have access to the resources, therapies, and support systems that have helped my son thrive. However, I am fully aware that many families do not have the same opportunities—whether due to financial limitations, lack of awareness, or social stigma. This realization is what drives me to create something bigger than myself—a movement that ensures no child is left without the support they need.

Every struggle, every milestone, and every moment of resilience in my own journey has fueled my commitment to this cause. I know what it feels like to worry about the future, to search for the right support, and to advocate for my child in spaces that may not fully understand him. That’s why I want to make a difference—not just for my son, but for every child and family navigating a similar path.

This event is my way of turning personal experience into collective action—to build a more inclusive, understanding, and supportive society. My hope is that this walk inspires change, opens up conversations, and provides families with the sense of community they truly deserve.

13. What’s next after the 2025 walk? Do you have any plans to expand the event or introduce other initiatives related to autism awareness and support?

We are hopeful that this initiative will help create momentum and will speak to the hearts of stakeholders who will be inspired to give more thought to the subject and the role they can play in making a difference. Wherever and whenever possible, Miracle Hands will engage, guide and support initiatives and opportunities that will help kids with autism and other related neurodevelopmental conditions to the best of our ability,

14. How do you envision the conversation around autism evolving in Sri Lanka over the next five years?

   I believe that Sri Lanka is at a turning pointwhen it comes to autism awareness and acceptance. Much of it, in my opinion, is due to social media. Whilst we have a long way to go, over the next five years I envision a shift toward a more informed, inclusive, and supportive society where autism is not just acknowledged but truly understood.  

15. Finally, for anyone watching or listening, what’s the one thing you’d like them to take away from this event? And how can they become part of this movement?

If there’s one thing I want everyone to take away from the Miracle Autism Awareness Walk, it’s that autism is not something to be feared or misunderstood—it’s something to be embraced with love, acceptance, and support.

Every individual on the autism spectrum deserves to be seen, valued, and included in society. This event is not just about walking together for a day—it’s about walking together toward a future where every child and adult with autism has the opportunities, respect, and support they need to thrive.