Our First Year: Key Milestones and Impact
From day one, our focus has been clear—create real change through community-led programs, education, digital outreach, and direct family support. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished in our first year of operation:
1. Real Support in Crisis Situations
Our team has assisted in three successful child search operations for families whose children with autism had eloped from home—an often overlooked but deeply concerning risk in neurodivergent households.
By working with caregivers of neurodivergent families, law enforcement, and community networks, we’ve shown that our mission goes beyond awareness—we offer hands-on, life-changing support.
2. Raising Awareness through Digital Media
We launched the Diverse Minds (U) YouTube Channel as part of our mission to make neurodiversity education accessible. Through video content tailored for Uganda and beyond, we’ve reached:
- Families seeking guidance on autism
- Teachers and school administrators
- Advocates and community leaders
Our videos offer practical tips, awareness stories, and real-life perspectives to reduce stigma and promote understanding of autism and other neurodivergent conditions.
3. Community Events that Inspire Action
In 2024, we actively contributed to and participated in several community fundraising events. A highlight was the successful Autism Awareness Car Wash at Kati Kati Grounds in Lugogo, Kampala, spearheaded by Mats Revisionary Initiatives.
The event brought together parents, youth, and volunteers in a united effort to support our cause and raise awareness for autism.
Diverse minds team at celebrity car wash
4. April 2025 Autism Awareness Month: A Time to Shine
April was a standout month for us as we collaborated with various organizations—both locally and internationally—including JKA Academy, Autism Society Uganda, AAFSO, and Child Autism UK, among others. Together, we worked to raise awareness about autism and took part in multiple events in recognition of Autism Awareness Month.
- Along other organisations in Uganda we were honoured to be part of the organising team for the Autism Run held on April 5th, 2025, spearheaded by AJK Academy, which united hundreds in support of neurodivergent communities.
Diverse Minds Uganda at the 2025 Autism Run
- On April 2nd, 2024, we proudly joined the Autism Walk at Kati Kati Grounds in Lugogo, Kampala—actively advocating for inclusion in schools, workplaces, and public services for neurodivergent individuals.
Diverse Minds Uganda at the 2025 Autism Walk
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In March 2025, in London, UK, we had the opportunity to represent Diverse Minds Uganda at Child Autism UK during the launch of Autism Awareness Month. It was a valuable experience where we built meaningful connections and gained insights from a charity doing impactful work in the field of neurodiversity.
Diverse Minds Uganda at Child Autism UK
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We were glad to take part in an autism awareness event in Ealing, London, organized by Stepping Stones Together—an organisation that runs a social club for children with special educational needs (SEN)—to help raise awareness about autism and promote inclusion.
Founder, Diverse Minds Uganda at Stepping Stones Together
5. Expanding Our Reach Online
In 2025, we proudly launched our official website: www.diverse-minds.org
- Autism resources for parents and educators
- Neurodiversity news and blogs
- Volunteer and partnership opportunities
- Stories from families and the neurodivergent community
Our site is designed to be accessible, informative, and interactive, allowing users to stay engaged with our mission and upcoming initiatives.
6. Engaging in Policy and Environmental Advocacy
We took the message of inclusion to the Wetland Conference, highlighting how inclusive urban and environmental planning can benefit neurodivergent individuals.
Participation at the wetland and water management Conference
We also partnered with a mayoral candidate for Mbarara City to push for a neurodivergent-friendly policy agenda, which includes:
- Accessible services and infrastructure
- Inclusive education frameworks
- Mental health support at the community level
Why Our Work Matters
In Uganda, neurodivergent individuals still face significant challenges—from stigma and misunderstanding to lack of access to services and inclusive education. Our first year has proven that positive change is possible, and that advocacy combined with community support can make a real difference.
“We are just getting started,” said a spokesperson for Diverse Minds (U). “The past year has shown us the power of community, compassion, and courage. We’re building a more inclusive Uganda—one step, one story, one act of support at a time.”
Join the Movement
As we celebrate our first anniversary, we extend our deepest thanks to everyone who has supported our work. Whether you’re a parent, educator, student, policymaker, or ally, there is a role for you in building a world that accepts and uplifts neurodivergent individuals.
Visit www.diverse-minds.org to learn more, volunteer, donate, or share your story.
Together, let’s continue creating a more inclusive, informed, and compassionate Uganda.