Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced dates for its 2023 Autism Conference and follow-up consultations themed “Empowering Voices for Autism” to promote inclusivity and self-advocacy for persons on the Autism Spectrum.
A statement by the group said the GTCO Autism Conference, an offshoot of the Orange Ribbon Initiative, has grown to become a reference point for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa, providing support and empowerment to thousands of people with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Working with specialists and partner organisations within and outside Nigeria, the conference, the statement added, will feature lectures, panel discussions, and performances carefully prepared to showcase the diverse talents that exist in the autism community whilst also creating a platform for persons with ASD and their families to connect and share ideas with subject-matter experts on different aspects of autism spectrum disorder including its nature and management.
For Nigeria, the conference is scheduled for July 24 and 25 at the Muson Centre, Lagos, followed by a free one-on-one clinic between July 26 and 29, at the Chapel of Light, Alausa, Ikeja.
For Ghana, the workshop holds on August 1, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana, while consultations will last from August 2 to 5 at the same venue.
Commenting on the event, Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, said “society thrives when diverse individuals with their distinctive voices, perspectives, and cultures are welcomed and celebrated. It is therefore important that persons on the ASD spectrum are given the chance to succeed and empowered to experience life to its fullest.”
He expressed excitement at “the evolving insights on the management of autism and remain committed to ensuring that more and more persons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are able to find their voice and embrace their uniqueness whilst contributing meaningfully to society.”