April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. It is a UN observance day World Autism Awareness Day - EN | United Nations and highlights the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so that they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.
I am fortunate to live in a country where the government understands the importance of integration and is working to create these opportunities. There are playgrounds where kids with special needs can play with neuro-typical kids. Students with high functioning autism (HFA) can attend a regular school. There are visiting days arranged by regular and special need schools to get students to come together and play with each other.
Singapore still has a long way to go but is on the right path. The idea is that with exposure, interventions, and education; these perceived differences eventually will fade away. As part of the career coaching and development community, I am especially interested in highlighting to organizations that persons on a HFA spectrum bring unique strengths and abilities. Understanding what it means to work with them and support them and how hiring an HFA in targeted roles can strengthen their organization; is a conversation that companies should be having as part of their recruiting and DEI initiatives.