As Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month drew to a close, the JR Nkosi Autism Foundation, in partnership with the Methodist Church of Southern Africa’s Mdantsane Central Mission Circuit 314, transformed Nondlwana Methodist Church in NU8, Mdantsane, into a beacon of hope and inclusion.
The autism empowerment and free screening event, held on Freedom Day, welcomed families dressed in vibrant rainbow colours — a powerful symbol of neurodiversity and unity.
Guest speakers included pastor Sive Mateta of the Sandton AOG church in KuGompo City, who inspired attendees while special guests living with autism, including JR Nkosi, shared heartfelt stories of resilience and triumph.
One parent, who asked to remain anonymous, shared the challenges her family faced due to a lack of understanding.
“Our son could not speak at the age of three to four. He was very hyper and would run up and down during sermons, even approaching the reverend,” she said.
“When the piano stopped playing, he would cry loudly because he didn’t want it to stop. All of this was misunderstood as bad behaviour.”
She said the lack of awareness left the family feeling isolated.
“There were times we didn’t want to attend church, but we kept going.
“Through these awareness campaigns, we have learnt how to better understand and communicate with our son,” she said.
She said attitudes within the church had also since changed.
“One of the church leaders even publicly apologised for how our son was treated. Today, we feel accepted.”
She encouraged other parents to seek support and education.
“Accept your child and understand that every child is unique.
“Speak openly about the condition and attend awareness campaigns to connect with other parents.” Yolande Nkosi, of the JR Nkosi Autism Foundation, said churches were key spaces for advocacy and healing.
“Some parents have stopped attending church because they are judged as parents who cannot control their children,” she said.
“Autism is not visible, which makes awareness and understanding even more important.”
She said the foundation had visited multiple churches in April, sometimes hosting more than one event per day, with some extending into May.
“The response has been very positive. Many churches invite us back because they realise the importance of this information,” Nkosi said.
She emphasised that screening offered at these events was not a diagnosis, but a referral tool.
“We use questionnaires to guide parents towards seeking professional assessments from medical practitioners or therapists.
“We are not qualified to diagnose.”
She also highlighted the talents of children on the autism spectrum.
“Many are gifted — in music, art, sport, and even preaching.
“These platforms allow them to showcase their abilities.”
Autism is one of the fastest-growing diagnoses globally, making early detection and intervention critical.
“We urge churches to join us in our advocacy. They play a vital role in restoring hope and reminding families that we are all wonderfully made.”
Antoinette Bruce-Alexander, provincial regional development officer at Autism SA, stressed the importance of collaboration.
“We do not work in silos. Partnerships allow us to share resources and strengthen our impact,” she said. She clarified common misconceptions about autism.
“Autism is a lifelong condition. Autistic children grow into autistic adults,” Bruce-Alexander said.
“Non-speaking individuals are often misunderstood. They may not communicate verbally, but it does not mean they lack intelligence or understanding.”
She said all individuals had the capacity to learn and contribute meaningfully.
“If not academically, then through skills. Society needs skilled artisans.”
She said Autism SA offered workshops, training, caregiver support, and access to resources, including screening referrals and guidance for diagnosis.
Sabelo Capa from the Assemblies of God (BTG) said churches must respond to both spiritual and social needs. “A mature church recognises its responsibility to address real-life challenges facing its congregation.
“We have just been introduced to autism awareness, and now the priority is to change mindsets,” he said.
Capa also acknowledged that some congregants had previously mistreated autistic children due to lack of knowledge.
“We must promote inclusiveness, even when we do not fully understand a condition,” he said.
As the month concludes, Bruce-Alexander reminded communities that awareness must continue beyond April.
“Families live with autism every day. Education and support must be ongoing, 365 days a year,” she said.
She reaffirmed that Autism SA was available to assist with training, school support, and community outreach.
