Rooted in an unfailing love for Imaan and many others like him, St. Andrew’s Autism Centre’s vision is to enable persons with autism to lead dignified and meaningful lives.
For years, Imaan, a young man with moderate autism, carried quiet potential in his hands. He found joy in drawing, often doodling when words did not come easily – a gift gently nurtured by his parents.
After graduating from St. Andrew’s Autism School, it became a time of uncertainty. The routines and support he had for years were now absent, and with it came the weight of the unknown, felt deeply by both Imaan and his family.
With unfailing love and belief, they were confident that, if given the right opportunity, Imaan could contribute meaningfully to society.
For years, Imaan, a young man with moderate autism, carried quiet potential in his hands. He found joy in drawing, often doodling when words did not come easily – a gift gently nurtured by his parents.
After graduating from St. Andrew’s Autism School, it became a time of uncertainty. The routines and support he had for years were now absent, and with it came the weight of the unknown, felt deeply by both Imaan and his family.
With unfailing love and belief, they were confident that, if given the right opportunity, Imaan could contribute meaningfully to society.
Recognising the growing gap, St. Andrew’s Autism Centre launched the Dignity of Work (DoW) programme, a sheltered work environment tailored for persons with moderate autism who aren’t yet ready for open employment, but who have much to contribute, given the right support.
Before joining DoW, Imaan spent most of his time at home, absorbed in video games and YouTube, with little structure or social interaction. That changed when he joined the programme.
Through simple, hands-on activities like planting, watering and harvesting, Coach Khalisma noticed his determination and untapped potential. She introduced structure into his routine, developing a personalised schedule that balanced screen time with meaningful tasks, helping him build capabilities, confidence and independence.
There's no more frustration. No more sadness. Imaan feels like he belongs somewhere. Like he has something to look forward to.
Yet, Imaan’s story is not unique. Too many with moderate autism still face the “post-18 cliff” – which refers to the sudden drop in services once they age out of the school system at 18 years old, and their families carry the weight of caregiving with little to no support.
Your contributions can be seeds of real change for adults with autism like Imaan who are not defined by their limitations, but lifted by unfailing love, and the belief that everyone deserves a future full of dignity.
