By Damiete Braide
Chief Executive Officer, AutismAlly and convener of the UpLyft Awards, Ike Ogbuebile, has called for an end to the stigma surrounding autism, especially across African communities, stating firmly that “autism is not a curse.”
Speaking from experience through his organization’s work in the United States and Africa, Ogbuebile addressed widespread misconceptions about autism, a developmental condition affecting communication, behavior, and social interaction. Citing data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), he noted that one in every 31 children is now diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), reinforcing the global nature of the issue.
While global awareness has grown in recent years, Ogbuebile said many African families still struggle with stigma and misinformation. “In both cities and villages, children are often kept out of school or hidden from neighbors. Some are wrongly labeled as spiritually afflicted, victims of ancestral curses, or taken for traditional ‘deliverance’ rituals.”
He emphasized that autism is a neurological condition, not a spiritual defect. “People with autism engage with the world differently, but their value is no less than anyone else’s. We need to stop seeing autism as a limitation and start recognizing the potential in every child,” he said.
Ogbuebile shared stories from AutismAlly and The UpLyft Group’s work in supporting neurodivergent individuals. “We’ve seen children once thought unreachable to express themselves through music. Teens with visual impairments learning to code or mix Afrobeat tracks. Parents who’ve found hope in supportive communities,” he said.
A strong advocate for early intervention, Ogbuebile highlighted the importance of qualified care providers, mentioning Renoxx Caregivers Inc., a key partner operating in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. “They provide home and community-based services that are rooted in compassion and dignity,” he noted.
He also called for inclusive language and a shift in perception. “Autism is not a tragedy, ignorance is,” he said, quoting Autism Speaks. “We must create environments where autistic individuals can thrive, dream, and be celebrated for who they are.”
Through the UpLyft programs and the BNS podcast, Ogbuebile’s team offers mentorship, education, and support to parents, caregivers, and educators. He invited families and allies to join AutismAlly in creating safe spaces and meaningful connections.
“Every child deserves to be seen, not hidden,” he concluded. “Let’s replace myths with knowledge, and fear with empathy. Autism is not a curse, it’s part of the human story.”
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