Woman in her 50s riding from Lagos to Accra for autism awareness

For families whose children live with autism in Africa, life can be incredibly challenging. The lack of resources, combined with social stigma and a general lack of awareness, leaves parents feeling isolated and helpless as they struggle to navigate the system to get their children the help they need.

Dr. Eziafakaku Nwokolo, the founder of Shades of Life Foundation (SOLF), an NGO that provides resources for Autism Intervention services, is on a mission to ensure that no child is left behind.

To this end, she is leading a team of 10 riders on an audacious 5-day bicycle ride from Lagos to Accra and back to raise awareness about autism and advocate for inclusivity in society. The participants comprise both female and male riders, aged from their 20s to 50s, cycling in unison to ensure a better future for African children living with Autism.

Upon arrival in Accra, the SOLF team will participate in a golfing tournament, “Play with Stephen,” which is also geared towards Autism awareness.

Speaking on why she is embarking on this brave journey, Nwokolo says, “First, I am a parent of an autistic child who knows first-hand the challenges faced by families. Secondly, as a professional in the field, I realise that people fear what they don’t understand or don’t know how to support because they have no information. I have also seen numerous individuals who could have thrived with the proper support waste away. These are just a few factors that drive me to keep going and do more.”