All set for 'Mr and Miss Autism Ghana' 2022

AFI Anthonio Foundation (AAF) would on this Saturday, April 30, 2022 hold the second Mr and Miss Autism Ghana pageant as part of efforts to create awareness on the condition and the need to include persons on the spectrum in society.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication.

Michaela is participating in 'Mr and Miss Autism Ghana' 2022

Themed ‘different not less’ the pageant which is non-verbal is basically to showcase talents of the children living with autism and for people to accept them as any other normal human being.

Six contestants made up of three girls and three boys from different parts of the country would participate in this year’s event which would be held at the Earlbeam Plaza, Dzorwulu.

Samuel Wegbe is a 'Mr and Miss Autism Ghana' 2022 contestant

Ms Anthonio, the organiser of the event said, the pageant show was to bring down the curtain on activities marking the Autism awareness month which is observed in April every year.

Gradually, she said people were becoming aware of Autism and accepting people living on the spectrum just as normal.

Lisa Mork is contesting in 'Mr and Miss Autism Ghana' 2022

Ms Anthonio, who is also a photo model, has over the years been training the children with Autism as photo models who could be used by companies to advertise their products.

“The Mr and Miss Autism pageant is not just about crowning a winner but also pushing to get the winners modelling jobs. This will encourage parents with children with special needs to feel confident and comfortable to bring their children out,” she said.

Vincent Kofi Kwao ia a contestant of 'Mr and Miss Autism Ghana' 2022

Unlike last year where “we faced a lot of challenges in organising the event, this has been eventful and we got some partners who are helping to ensure that the programme comes off successfully.”