Beauty in Diversity
The Enable the Children (ETC) team in Sierra Leone works with families with children who live with different abilities. Every child in this world is a blessing. Understanding and accepting the diverse spectrum of neurological variations opens hearts and minds to love and inclusion, bringing dignity to all.
Understanding Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and respects the wide variety of ways in which human brains function. It acknowledges that neurological differences—such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others—are not deficits, but natural variations of the human experience. Celebrating neurodiversity encourages greater acceptance and understanding, fostering inclusive communities where individuals can thrive based on their unique strengths and perspectives.
Zainab’s Journey
Meet Zainab who is 12 years old and autistic. The Enable the Children team have been working with her for several years. When they first met her, she was totally dependent on others for her care.
The Family Support Worker team began supporting her with self-help skills such as dressing, feeding, bathing, and potty training. They also worked on behavioural challenges including: skin-picking, throwing objects, hitting others, and head banging.
It hasn’t been easy for Zainab and her family, and they still face many challenges. However, over time, and with consistent therapy and encouragement, she has made remarkable progress.
Today, she can remove her clothes by herself, she is able to use the toilet on her own, and she no longer engages in aggressive or harmful behaviours. The Pastoral Social work team have also been involved to mediate conflicts within the community when misunderstandings arise due to her behaviour.
For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we may walk in them.
Celebrating Together
On April 2, 2025, the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, in collaboration with Sahid Autism Foundation, Narnia Educational Group, Partners in Health, Africell, and World Hope International, came together to commemorate World Autism Day. This year’s theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” highlights the intersection of neurodiversity, inclusion, and global sustainability efforts.
Parents and children from the different organizations were invited to attend. The event was filled with fun, testimonies, games, music, food, and drinks. The total attendance on the day was 115 people: including children, their caregivers, stakeholders, and partners. Media houses were also present to continue raising awareness and showcasing the importance of understanding and supporting children on the autism spectrum.
Aminata Dumbuya
Family Support Worker in Global Health - ETC
World Hope International
Learn More about The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4. Learn more about World Hope International’s Enable the Children Program.
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