Faizat Hope Foundation For Autism and Special Needs

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.

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