ABOUT US 

My name is Rasheedat Aderonke Olatunji, from Ogbomosho in Oyo State, Nigeria. I am a mother, an autism advocate, and the founder of Faizat Hope Foundation for Autism and Special Needs. My life’s work is to create awareness and support other families raising children with autism and special needs.

My daughter, Faizat Arowolo, is 25 years old. She was diagnosed with autism when she was 11. Since then, my journey as her mother has been one of learning, patience, and resilience. She is not my only child; I also have two sons, her younger brothers, who are growing up to be her strongest support system. I always remind them that one day, when I am no longer here, they will continue caring for their sister.

The day I first heard the diagnosis was one of the hardest moments of my life. I had already lost my husband and was struggling as a widow when doctors confirmed that Faizat was autistic. At first, I didn’t even understand what autism meant. I tried herbal and spiritual remedies, thinking it was something else. The diagnosis brought both confusion and relief — confusion because I didn’t know what the future would hold, and relief because at least I finally had an answer.

Sadly, my husband had passed away before the diagnosis. My extended family offered little support; in fact, many didn’t even believe autism existed. Their response was mostly negative, which made me feel alone in the journey. That lack of understanding forced me to be stronger and to stand firmly for my daughter no matter what.

Looking back, I remember the earliest signs. She struggled with speech, motor skills like walking and holding things, and her behavior was different. At first, I thought she would catch up, but when she didn’t, I realized something was truly different. Only later did I understand these were signs of autism.

Life with Faizat is filled with routines. I wake her up, help her with personal care, prepare her meals, and guide her through simple activities. Some days are calm, while others are very challenging with meltdowns. But no matter what, I try to make sure she laughs, feels loved, and stays safe.

Parenting a child with autism in Nigeria is extremely difficult. There is little or no support system. Very few schools or programs exist for adults like Faizat, healthcare is expensive, and society does not understand autism. Financially, therapy and special care have been a heavy burden. Emotionally, I have struggled with depression and loneliness. Socially, people judge, mock, or avoid us. Yet despite it all, I keep going, because my daughter depends on me.

I have faced stigma many times. People have called her names, some said she is possessed, others believed autism is not real. I deal with it by educating people whenever I can, and by reminding myself that my daughter is not a mistake — she is a blessing. My faith in God, my love for Faizat, and my belief that my story can help others are what keep me going. Even when I break down in private, I rise again, because giving up is never an option.

Faizat has taught me patience, unconditional love, and resilience. She has shown me that life is not about perfection but about acceptance. Truly, she is my greatest teacher. Looking after my own mental health is not easy. Sometimes I cry, sometimes I take breaks, sometimes I just pray and breathe. Sharing my story publicly has also helped me heal.

Autism is still poorly understood in Nigeria. Too many people see it as a spiritual problem or a curse. Many believe autistic children cannot learn or do anything meaningful. I challenge these misconceptions by showing that autism is a condition, not a curse. What we need are inclusive schools with trained teachers, affordable healthcare and therapy centers, and strong government policies to support families raising children with autism.

When I began sharing my journey on TikTok, I received a lot of love and encouragement, especially from other mothers. Of course, there were also negative comments, mockery, and doubts about my daughter’s condition. But I choose to focus on the positive, because I know my story is touching lives.

My dream for Faizat is for her to live a happy, independent life, even when I am no longer here. I am working on vocational training and a future care plan for her, so she can have something meaningful to do and people to support her. To other mothers raising autistic children who feel isolated, I say: you are not alone, and your child is not a mistake. Take it one day at a time. Speak out, seek support, and never stop believing in your child.

The Nigeria I long to see is one where children like my daughter are accepted, where schools and communities are inclusive, where parents do not have to beg for support, and where every child, regardless of ability, is given the dignity and opportunity to live a full life.