Having embarked on a journey that resonates with humaneness, dedication and transformative impact, especially for children battling autism, Mrs. Dotun Akande stands as a beacon of hope, revolutionizing autism awareness, care, treatment and intervention in Nigeria
Pioneering journey
“Each time I look back, I’m always amazed by how far and well God has brought us,” she intones as she began to relay the journey of her life’s work on autism.
In the kaleidoscope of life, her story stands out as a vibrant hue, painting an imagery of resilience, dedication, and compassion. Mrs. Dotun Akande’s journey metamorphosis from being an economist to a dedicated teacher unfolds as a captivating saga. And she’s not even your regular tutor in an unvarying settling with typical students; hers is a showcase of resolute commitment to autistic children; towards transforming and reforming autism awareness and intervention in Nigeria.
Planted in personal struggle
In the year 2000, her odyssey began with her two-year-old son being diagnosed with autism. “I was dazed with shock and wished I would soon wake up and be told it was a dream. But then, it was a reality I couldn’t wish away or shake off.
“Faced with a dearth of information and support, I embarked on a personal mission, combining efforts with a speech therapy on one side, and a music therapy on the other, both to teach my son essential skills he would later need in life.”
The seed of hope planted during this challenging period laid the foundation for the remarkable endeavour soon to be later unveiled.
i woke up to the realisation that my son’s autism is a reality I couldn’t wish away or shake off
Beacon of hope
Against the backdrop of limited resources and gross uncertainties, a nascent autism landscape landed in Nigeria. And, by 2006, Mrs. Akande took the bold step of officially founding the Patrick Speech and Language Centre (PSLC), which eventually marked the birth of the first special-needs centre solely dedicated to individuals, children in particular, with autism.
And from inception, it was quickly realized that PSLC became more than an institution, as parents who had hitherto been silent about their children’s queer situations came to the centre and it evolved into a haven of support, intervention and transformation for countless families.
Range of services
I marvel at how the centre became a trailblazer offering a comprehensive range of services including speech, occupational, music and behaviour therapy to scores of autistic persons.
Before long, Patrick’s Centre cerebral team crafted an environment rooted in best practices, providing not just therapy but social skills building, play therapy, and vocational services.
Her contributions to autism awareness earned her recognition as the Vlisco Woman for years 2015 and 2017
Today, the centre’s success is underscored by the integration of almost 100 children into mainstream schools, a testament to the potentials for growth and development needed in every individual.
Educational excellence and international recognition
Mrs Akande’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her academic triumph. A certified behaviour analyst from the Florida Institute of Technology, USA, she holds the esteemed designation of an advanced Certified Autism Specialist (ACAS). Thus, Patrick’s stands as the first Nigerian autism centre registered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
Her contributions also earned her recognition as the Vlisco Woman for the years 2015 and 2017, an honour highlighting her significant impact on autism care, awareness and management in Nigeria.
Active advocacy
Her impact extends beyond the walls of Patrick’s. She actively engages in the autism awareness campaigns far and wide, playing a key role in initiatives such as the GTBank Orange Ribbon, and had contributed to articles, created the ‘Pure Souls’ magazine, and participated in diverse annual autism conferences across the world, exhibiting her dedication to sharing knowledge and fostering awareness as a leader in the field.
Triumphs and trials
Her journey is not without challenges. She candidly acknowledges the financial constraints faced by parents, emphasizing the societal tendency to prioritize neuro-typical children over those with developmental challenges.
I believe strongly that every individual, irrespective of challenges, possesses unique talents waiting to be nurtured
Despite these hurdles, she said “success stories abound.” The dedication of parents who stay committed to therapy is rewarded with seamless integration of their once-Autistic children into conventional schools where they blend well with better ease.
Talents in autism
Every December, Patrick’s hosts the Talents in Autism Concerts, an enchanting showcase of the unique skills in the special set of children to build and boost confidence in the children and offer hope to their parents. It also emphasizes their potential for vocational training and future careers. The concert has become a symbol of empowerment and a celebration of individuality in a harmonious ensemble.
Visionary gaze into the future
As Mrs Akande looks ahead, she said: “My vision for Patrick’s encompasses consolidation and expansion. We have plans to include the establishment of a world-class centre that caters to the needs of families affected by Autism in Nigeria and West Africa.
“The envisaged centre will not only provide existing services but also introduce new ones, such as full vocational services. I dream of a future where families no longer need to send their children abroad for therapy, realizing that dedicated services are also available at home in Nigeria.
Legacy of impact
Mrs Akande’s journey is more than a narrative. Hers is a tapestry woven with threads of human kindness sparked by dedication to compassion and transformative impact. Her story radiates as a beacon of hope for families navigating the complexities of autism.
As she continues to lead Patrick’s, her legacy remains a pioneer and an advocate for even richer success stories that transcends the immediate sphere of autism in Nigeria; but one which grows richer with every aspect of her life in general.
“I believe strongly that every individual, irrespective of challenges, possesses unique talents waiting to be nurtured. So, in our hands, autism is not a limitation, but a canvas for harmonious growth and societal inclusion.
“I also envision a future where children with autism are embraced and included in making contributions to community development on every career platform,” Mrs. Akande concludes.
