ANCA.Spring.2017.Sept.19.final

Naturally AUTISTIC 

Showcasing the Strength and 

Talent of the Global Autistic Community 

® 

Spring 2017 

Cultural Harmonics 

A shift in perspective 

Autistic Lifestyles 

Greetings from Manila 

Special Fall 2017 Insert, included 

® 

ANCA 

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NATURALLY 

AUTISTIC ® 

Leonora Gregory–Collura Charlie Collura 

Publishers 

anca@naturallyautistic.com 

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editor@naturallyautistic.com 

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Mailing Address 

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PO Box 1658 Gibsons BC Canada V0N 1V0 

Naturally Autistic ® ANCA ® 

To Subscribe Visit 

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Published by Naturally Autistic ® press 

Copyright 2017 ANCA ® Consulting Inc 

All Rights Reserved 

ISSN 1923-9890 

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Contributors 

Bob Delaney 

Bob Delaney is a freelance copy editor and fact checker for various book and magazine 

publishers. Previously, he served for six years as editor at Squadron/Signal Publications 

of Carrollton, Texas, USA. Mr. Delaney was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 2004. 

He lives in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, and his interests include refereeing soccer, scale 

modeling, reading, and viewing classic films. 

Leonora Gregory-Collura 

Leonora Gregory-Collura Dipl. RBS TTC – Co-Founder of ANCA® Naturally Autistic 

Organizations. A graduate of Elmhurst Ballet School and the Royal Ballet School, UK, 

Leonora has 40 years of experience teaching and working with special needs children and 

adults, has produced numerous international choreographies and productions related to 

promoting the talent and abilities of Autistic People. Diagnosed as autistic in the early 

1990’s. 

Vell Baria 

Charlie Collura 

Self-identified, Charlie is a graduate of Sheridan College and McMaster University and is 

the co-founder of ANCA® Consulting and the non-profit ANCA® Foundation. Charlie is an 

educator, workshop presenter, writer and consultant. He has thirty years of experience 

working with autistic children and adults in the public school, group home, community 

and consulting settings. 

Vell Baria (Philippines) is a lyric coloratura soprano, concert singer, theater actress, 

and autism advocate. Vell was one of the nominees for the 7th INAP Awards 2016 in the 

Category of Performing Arts (Adult) and won first place. Vell was also appointed as one of 

the ANCA World Ambassadors for the Philippines. She won two awards in the 2016 Autistic 

Gala Night: “Excellence in Performance” and “Best In Visual Arts.” Vell’s interests includes 

modeling for art classes, choral conducting, church music, hairdressing, cosmetology, 

independent living, politics, and languages. Vell is also known for recording covers for her 

YouTube and onepoint.fm accounts. Vell manages her own Facebook fan page and group, and her official website 

vellbaria.wordpress.com. 

Liz Pritchard (USA) 

A twenty-three year-old autistic graphic artist who raises awareness of various psychological 

conditions through original comic books in order to erase the negative stigma 

that often surrounds these conditions. Art has always provided a healthy outlet for Liz to 

express her frustrations and anxieties when words were too difficult. Liz wants to help 

other individuals like herself by helping them find their voice, as art has helped Liz find 

her voice. Liz is an ANCA World Ambassador representing the United States of America." 

Joely Colmer 

My name is Joely Colmer, I am 25 and I am a young female Autism Activist, Author and 

Motivational Speaker, with a very special gift... I have a disability called Asperger's 

Syndrome. Asperger's Syndrome is a gift that hinders me with many hidden hardships 

but also walks hand in hand with the very things I love most about myself. Most of all, 

Asperger's has allowed me to achieve my dreams of helping others. United Kingdom 

Carol Holst 

Carol Holst, pianist and harpist, diagnosed with Asperger's at age 52, Mom of an autistic son, 

married 30 years. Currently residing in the USA. 

Twitter by: ANCA_AutismFest 

Abelardo Apollo Archie David PhD. 

The founder of Philippine-based organizations for differently-abled youth from all walks 

of life. His works are widely acknowledged as best practice models, winning recognitions 

locally and abroad. 

® 


World Autism Festival 

www.blogtalkradio.com/autistic-people 

www.livestream.com/naturallyautisticanca 

Photos: 2015 ANCA® World Autism Festival archives. Naturally Autistic ANCA archives and contributor 

archives. 

Information contained in Naturally Autistic® is not medical advice and should not be treated as such. Naturally Autistic® and its content 

are not intended to provide medical advice, and are not intended to be used to diagnose or assess health conditions or to be substituted for 

professional medical advice. You should not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read 

in Naturally Autistic®.Naturally Autistic® and its employees, contributors, agents and publisher are not liable or responsible for any loss or 

damage arising from reliance on information contained in Naturally Autistic®. Your reliance on any information provided by Naturally Autistic® 

is solely at your own risk. 

Naturally Autistic® takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements published in Naturally Autistic®. Naturally Autistic® presents the 

information contained herein without any warranty of any kind, express or implied, and is not liable for mistakes, errors, or omissions of any 

kind, or for any loss or damage caused by reliance on such information. Naturally Autistic® does not endorse or suggest any particular medical 

tests, pharmaceutical products, physicians or other health providers, products, or medical procedures. 

www.naturallyautistic.com | 

3

Naturally Autistic ANCA: 


Cover Photo by: Sergey Sergiyenko 

7 

15 

In this Issue 

3 Contributors 

5 Editorial 

6 Cultural Harmonics 

12 Letters to the Editor 

Departments 

18 

Naturally Autistic ® People 

14 A Shift in Perspective: 

Inspiring Inclusion Through 

Illustration 

24 ANCA ® Workshop Review 

28 ANCA ® Kicks-Off 2017 

Around the World 

In Next Issue 

2018 Spring Issue 

2017 AWAF 7th Annual Event 

20 

2017 Theme: Cultural Convergence 

2017 Nominees, 

International Judges, 

Presenters & Performance 

Artists 

4 

| www.naturallyautistic.com 

Naturally Autistic ® Lifestyles 

18 Greetings From Manila 

20 My Home; My Fairy 

Jam Jar 

22 On The Move

From the Co-Founders of Naturally Autistic ® 

Welcome to Naturally Autistic ® by Leonora Gregory–Collura 

In this third Spring Issue for the 

Naturally Autistic magazine and including 

the Fall Issues, our 10th issue 

of the magazine in total, readership 

and contributors continue to fulfill 

their dreams as well as appreciate 

opportunities to connect and partner 

with the global community. Content 

submitted is timeless and inspiring! 

Each magazine suggests another 

global path on this wonderful journey 

of emergence, establishing the autistic 

culture into the realms of societal 

cultures. 

The theme for this issue , “Cultural 

Harmonics”, was inspired by our guest 

lead contributing writer Vell Baria 

from the Philippines. Vell was a 2016 

Official Nominee for the INAP AWARD 

for the performing arts going back to 

the Philippines representing her country 

as AWARD recipient and ANCA ® 

World Ambassador. As she states in 

the opening paragraph of her article, 

“Cultural Harmonics”: “In my definition 

and perspective, Harmonics is living 

together in universal harmony.” 

And in this issue you can hear the 

voices of shared experiences exemplifying 

this message from the ‘Letters 

to the Editor”, using one’s gift to 

find opportunities to engage as artist/entrepreneur 

Elizabeth Pritchard 

writes about in her article, sharing 

“My Home: My Fairy Jam Jar” to “On 

the Move” from Texas to the Pacific 

Northwest - finding places to ‘nest’ 

and what it means to those of us living 

the autistic spectrum. The insights 

provided by delegates at the ANCA ® 

World Autism Festival’s 7th annual international 

event shines a contrasting 

light on the ANCA ® experience where 

people convene and have distinct 

interconnecting ‘shared human’ experiences 

no matter what culture, religion, 

or geographic land mass they 

venture from. A Message from Manila 

invokes this sentiment as do the Workshop 

& Trade Show reviews. 

I hope you enjoy our timeless magazines, 

all of which are now available 

online compliments of ANCA ® . And 

to the delegates attending this year’s 

8th annual AWAF event, we look forward 

to providing yet another incredible 

event filled with opportunities, 

fun, and joyous celebrations! So that 

you too may continue to raise the 

bar in your communities and take the 

very special gifts of exchanges experienced 

at the festival back home 

with you, expanding your horizons as 

many before you have done. • 

Our Autistic Community by Charlie Collura 

In a world filled with noise, misunder-standing 

and constant distraction—which 

appears to be 

spreading at an ever-accelerating 

rate—the idea of people from different 

cultural backgrounds and life experience, 

sharing their understanding 

of the world, working together in 

peace and harmony appears more 

ideological concept than some materially 

achievable outcome. 

Yet, this cultural harmony involving 

elements of peace, conscientiousness, 

and a concordance of 

words and action is finding expression 

among a truly international 

community of people—autistic people. 

While a dwindling number continue 

to roam aimlessly in search of 

some solution to what they perceive 

as the ‘autism enigma’, the autistic 

community continues to bring forth 

beauty, creativity and harmony in all 

they do. 

In the spring of 2017, the autistic 

community gathered together in Turkey, 

USA, Taiwan and the Philippines 

for the ANCA ® World Autism Festival 

Kick-Off events. 

Each gathering and celebration 

had a special focus. Otisium in Alanya, 

Turkey brought together families, 

government officials and community 

partners to celebrate autism in sports 

and music. AutismHWY in California, 

USA, in partnership with the town of 

Covina, showcased autistic talents 

during the AutismHWY Chalk Festival. 

In Manila, Philippines, we witnessed 

autistic people opening art 

galleries, showcasing art and collaborative 

efforts in fashion design; 

while in Taipei, Taiwan, in partnership 

with 62icon demonstrations of 

how autistic artists are creating and 

running their own businesses using 

their abilities to design everything 

from fashion umbrellas to mugs, t- 

shirts, aprons, canvas art and much 

more. All the while the autistic community 

is busy creating ever more 

collaborations on present and 

future projects, leading the way 

to greater cross cultural harmony, 

peace, and understanding. 

We hope you find inspiration in the 

articles, features, and letters to the 

editor in this edition of Naturally Autistic 

magazine. • 

2016 AWAF 


5

Harmonics 

CULTURAL 

By Vell Baria 

(With additional contributions by Yeşim Zorlu, 

Katarina Simic and Joely Colmer) 

6 

The Harmonic Suite 

“It’s not too late to share your achievements, as long as 

it’s concrete and articulated!” Vell Baria, 2016 INAP Award Recipient 

for Performing Arts. 

Upon hearing the word “Harmonics,” what comes into 

our minds? The word “Harmonics,” or “Harmonic” in singular 

term, is originated from the word “Harmonia” in singular 

while “Harmonikos” in a plural form meaning “relating 

to music” where we harmonized vocally and instrumentally 

out of our own chords. In my definition and perspective, 

Harmonics is living together in universal harmony. I also 

found it more energetic to describe the way we represent 

no matter the place we lived in, the religion, the skin color 

or the status of life we have for as long as we have abilities 

to contribute to the world our positive impact for the world 

to Hear, Appreciate, Remember, Mesmerize, Observe, Necessitate, 

Inspire and Cherish the Standards of each individual. 

Prelude 

From the Latin word “prælūdo” meaning “play beforehand.” 

I started to think deeply about being involved in 

this progressive family where my heart, mind and soul set 

to “beforehand” mode of acceptance, as I feel that the 

big beginning to a life changing journey made fast approaching. 

ANCA was introduced to me and my mom by Vico 

Cham’s mother, Ms. Catherine Cham, whose experience 

in their delegation to ANCA in 2015 changed their lives 

and motivated them to help out other Autistic potentials 

to join the community where there is change. While doing 

research on ANCA, my mom only knew that ANCA is 

just an award winning body, but after such realizations, it’s 

an organization founded by the married Autistic couple 

whose vision is to support Autistic people and promote 

connections where it has its name sake for their children, 

Anthony and Catherine. For a better detail, this organization 

has played such major role in establishing connections 

within the Autism community across the world. It is 

also their goal to advocate the freedom of exploring and 

| www.naturallyautistic.com 

sharing talents, time, skills and vision-missions. 

By preparing for the Autism Fest, my mom and I got to 

know and meet other Philippine delegate-nominees joining 

us for the 7th ANCA Autism Festival during the delegates 

meeting organized by the Cham family discussing 

the organization’s history, the Autism festival and the perks 

of being one of the festival delegates. During that meeting, 

I was so blessed and being supported by the delegation 

team after being mentioned that I’ll be performing 

for the opening and the awards night with much joy and 

confidence. 

First Movement 

As I introduced myself this time to the international 

friends circle, this may not have been an easy part of my 

delegation career. It really took much time to get their impression 

about you and your expertise for reasons of being 

appreciated and well known in the eye. I started to introduce 

myself to the ANCA family by adding them up on 

my Facebook profile to get in touch before meeting them 

in person. This was also my chance to share my time in 

getting to know them in detail along with communicating 

with them online and appreciating their creative status 

posts like their achievements, successful things and words 

of devotion. Thus, this was my simple way to meet my new 

set of ANCA Delegate-nominee-batch mates outside my 

home turf very well. 

To expand their knowledge, I felt blessed to be selected 

to be interviewed for the Blog Talk Radio program 

hosted by Ms. Leonora Gregory-Collura herself. This gave 

me a chance to share my story of living on the spectrum, 

my parents’ way of bringing me up, my talents and skills, 

and my self-views on self-advocacy on Autism awareness. 

This is also a way of knowing me much better in a higher 

ground with that kind of feeling that I can’t wait, but excited 

to meet them in the festival week and have them as 

my new set of international fans as well. 

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from page 6 

Second Movement 

As a performer, it will not be memorable and successful 

without the help of these wonderful people whom I’ve 

worked with. All of them have motivated and encouraged 

me to get going to be a very good performer and 

a responsible person, musically and in general. Especially, 

they are new to me in whom I’ve collaborated with two 

pianists and a singer. 

“I’m so glad we met. Although you can take the stage 

with a very short rehearsal during the festival has been 

very successful. Both of you are very talented and beautiful. 

You’ve been a great partner for Beril. I can see that 

you love Beril. Still watching your video I took at the festival. 

I hope you will find the opportunity to take the stage 

together again. I wish we could make new music together 

in Turkey.” Yeşim Zorlu, Mother of 2016 INAP Award Third Place 

Recipient and 2016 ANCA World Ambassador Beril Zorlu. 

With Ms. Leonora’s guidance and help, she appointed 

a fellow delegate from Turkey, Beril Zorlu, to accompany 

me for both opening and awards nights as the original 

plan. However, her mom and her music teacher, pianistvocalist 

Dr. Orçun Berrakçay, gave me a short notice that 

she would accompany me for the inaugural trade show, 

which she did by researching her favorite songs from my 

YouTube covers and from both her teacher and her favorites 

as well. Especially, we performed “Hotel California” in 

the opening, which wrapped up the Region 1–The Americas 

nominees presentation. Much to their appreciation in 

which the audience could easily relate while doing my incharacter 

type of singing while reading the lyrics as if I’m 

reading a story. 

Working with Beril, I’ve learned that adjustment, understanding 

and patience are the best things to do in order 

to succeed in such relationships as not only workers and 

collaborators, but also friends and siblings in life. In return, 

they can give you more help and support as much as they 

could do. I came to the realization that one day, Beril and I 

will continue to collaborate again on the world stage with 

an expansion of many listeners and audiences for greater 

appreciation. 

On the other hand, after a long day of such prayer and 

thinking, my prayer was finally answered. Someone filled in 

Beril’s shoes for both main serious works of Johann Strauss’ 

“Spring in My Heart” and Felix Mendelssohn’s “Hear Ye, 

Israel” from the oratorio “Elijah.” These were performed 

for both the opening and awards nights, respectively. This 

time, it was pianist Katarina Simic, who is not Autistic but 

supports the Autism festival with such majestic passion in 

spite of her busy schedule as a student. 

Working with Katarina is such a happy blessing for me 

as I relate it to my experience as a music student back in a 

day after a long communication via email. As days went 

by, our preparations went smoothly from the flow of the 

performance and the interaction between both vocalist 

and pianists. This was despite such a short time given to 

rehearse personally at the University of British Columbia, 

with a short tour the night before the day of preparations 

for the Autism festival. I hope to continue collaborating 

with her by having an international solo concert singing 

more serious classical works and musicals like those two 

songs mentioned in front of the Autism community as I promote 

music appreciation to the community. I’ve learned 

that communication and relating with one another are 

factors for successful collaboration. 

Let’s see what Katarina has to say about her volunteerism 

and experience as one of the performers for the 

Autism Fest and the ANCA Community: “Volunteering 

at ANCA as a performer was a special experience. The 

festival is highly organized and very professional, providing 

many individuals with the opportunity to display their 

talents internationally. The atmosphere created by all attendees 

and organizers was very warm; I was touched by 

the immense appreciation expressed by the festival coordinator 

and the singer I collaborated with for taking part 

in the festival. 

ANCA World Autism Festival is already very mature 

after its seventh anniversary and I am certain it will 

continue to grow for many more years in supporting an 

important cause. 

Collaborating with Vell was a joy, despite the difficulty 

in finding times to rehearse in a short time span with our 

contrasting schedules. We both learned from each other 

through the process and managed to pull through in the 

end. I am very grateful to have been able to have met 

Vell, to have made music with her and to have supported 

her at the festival. She is a very talented singer who consistently 

amazes her listeners.” Katarina Simic, Pianist, Student at the 

University of British Columbia taking up Bachelor in Music–Major in Piano and 

Minor in Commerce. 

Last but not the least is the collaboration with my fellow 

vocalist extraordinaire, the ANCA veteran Joshua 

Cochrane, a child wonder whose vocals communicate 

with grace and charm for the listeners. Collaborating with 

him for ANCA’s host country’s National Anthem “O Canada” 

for both the opening ceremony and on the awards 

night is a major honor and responsibility by not only singing 

it with pride and dignity, but with sincerity. I managed 

to blend in with his vocal methods without sticking out and 

also started to memorize the last three lines of the National 

Anthem in a short time of such rehearsals. As a result, we 

were proudly able to blend well with much conviction. This 

is also another short time rehearsal following the pianist’s 

rehearsals. I realize that I would really like to collaborate 

with Joshua in the future duets. 

Amid all of this, we also took time for both of us to have 

some fun by taking photos and selfies using my younger 

sister’s high quality camera. Joshua enjoyed it when taking 

photos for ANCA’s most important events while I’m on 

duty on stage and for photo ops and sometimes for fun 

shots. We also came up with the team name: “Peanut Butter 

Team.” What a harmonic team, isn’t it? 

Third Movement 

I made my international debut as a workshop presenter, 

which was my major transition as part of my commitment 

as an Autism advocate. 

Upon meeting the veteran activist and motivation 

speaker from the United Kingdom, Joely Colmer, who was 

also an INAP award recipient for Community Achievement, 

both of us were much blessed after being appointed 

to do a bilateral workshop together. 

This was the first in ANCA’s history to have two different 

countries work together on one theme: “Advocacy as 

Autistic Women.” 

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9

10 


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In preparing for this, we come up with the idea of sharing 

our personal struggles, achievements, and other interested 

things what will fit into the Autism community’s 

experiences and also planned for what our workshop 

would look like as we come up with a special workshop 

that will catch the attendees’ attention. In my part, I connect 

on what Joely presented. In the interactive part, I 

was soon inspired by Joely after admitting that mine was 

a “sore cheap” since it’s my first time doing the workshop, 

especially presenting it on a world stage where she is giving 

such words of advice and suggestions to fix my workshop. 

I then did the rest, especially including the music 

etiquette in my workshop to share my words of advice as 

a performer. 

Working with Joely became a memorable one where 

she displayed her outspoken and forthright personality as 

she shared her struggles and accomplishments with much 

convincing force of sincerity. This would remind other people 

with Autism of their own experiences with struggles 

and accomplishments in life in which I was also related in 

some areas of her experiences. 

Doing this workshop is just like mentoring those people 

who are eager to learn and to share! Not only that, it was 

also my chance to share what observations and future 

visions that I have in mind as they listen. Thus, this was a 

dream come true to me after thinking deeply of being 

a mentor to the community who is in need of much 

understanding of the spectrum. Much to my happiness, 

I will feel free to continue being a beloved mentor to the 

community. 

Let’s see what Joely has to say about our collaborative 

moments: “I am blessed to have worked alongside Vell for 

many months prior to our first meeting at the World Autism 

Festival, where we both hosted ANCA’s first ever Bilateral 

Workshop on the World Stage, called “Spread your Wings: 

The Art of Self Expression and Autism Activism.” 

We both have so much passion for Autism Advocacy/Activism, 

and self-expression, so that when we were 

emailing each other to create our workshop for the first 

time, our imaginations flew away. It was a pleasure to get 

to know Vell, who is an inspiring “all singing, all dancing,” 

Autism Advocate and role model for others, we worked 

very well together as a team. We inspired and learned 

from each other, and together we worked hard to refine 

our ideas, to create a two-hour interactive workshop. 

We had a “We are Autism United” jigsaw flag, where 

participants were encouraged to express their voice onto 

jigsaw pieces about what could help their country’s Autistic 

community, and what they like about their Autism. This 

was therapeutic and insightful activity that was enjoyed, 

and informative, for all. Another popular activity was our 

“Disable the Autism Label T-shirt,” where our participants 

learnt that no matter what the labels of Autism are, those 

labels do not define us as people. We took our literal Negative 

label off of our T-shirt, to reveal the positives of Autism 

written on the T-shirt underneath. Then, everyone enjoyed 

expressing their voice onto the T-shirt, about why they like 

their Autism and the positive quirks within their disability. 

Together we brought Autistic people together to see the 

positives within Autism, but also, to understand that they 

too can be activists in kindness, by expressing their voices 

through their own passions–or specific narrow interests. 

With a speech about ANCA, empowerment to express 

our hidden voices, Activism, and Autism quirks, from me, 

and Vell’s intricate insight into musical etiquette and Autistic 

people’s roles within the musical industry, our workshop 

was a fantastic success. Many tears were shed, personal 

stories of success and empowerment were shared, fascinated 

silences embraced our audience with our speeches, 

and hopeful smiles glowed throughout, as everyone 

chatted and participated in our activities. We have come 

home with memories and friends for life. Thank you everyone, 

who made it possible. Joely Colmer, 2016 INAP Award Recipient 

for Community Achievement and ANCA World Ambassador, Autism Activist- 

Advocate. 

Postlude 

As an award recipient, it was my first time winning this 

international award, especially to inclusive Autism audiences 

worldwide and to non-Autistic people who witnessed 

the awards night. Much to their realization, those 

people who made such judgements and doubts of my 

abilities and those who didn’t believe in my achievements 

before were in awe and speechless following my achievement. 

I’m also the first nominee for the performing arts in 

my home country and an awardee recipient in performing 

arts, too. This is a major first in the Philippines to have a 

first win in the performing arts category. In spite of my condition, 

I started to realize that I was able to pull off my butterflies 

in my stomach as I received this award with much 

honor and glory for my fellow country people, in which I 

began to win such hearts of people following the win. 

As ANCA’s World Ambassador, I received much praise 

and motivation from the ANCA community alike especially 

from my batch mates in this last year’s Autism festival. 

As an ambassador, I started to think to act like a president 

since I have so much plans in mind that I am greatly interested 

in sharing those plans, like giving both a general 

solo concert and fundraising concert were I perform pop 

and classical music along with artists with Autism for the 

community and to compose more songs. I also loved to 

speak to the Congress and Senate about Autism awareness. 

As my career as a workshop presenter continues, I 

also love to visit special schools and present my workshops 

and collaborate with experienced workshop presenters. If 

ever I have such theater plays I’m in, I would like to share 

it to the community and that will be another and different 

way of promoting arts to the Autism community as they 

wanted to learn and discover something new in the performing 

arts. 

Encore 

What have I learned so far as a festival delegate, 

awardee and ambassador? If you have something to 

share, show it. Harvest and command with it and it 

will come out as time goes by that people will feel and notice 

with much motivation. To gain such support, parents 

will be happy if their child with Autism is always ready to 

lead other fellows in the spectrum to the right path and it 

will go farther than expected to reach their freedom of 

success. • 


11

LETTERSTOTHEEDITOR 

Editor’s Notebook 

Welcome to the Spring 2017 issue of Naturally Autistic. I and the staff of ANCA appreciate your 

interest in this publication, and we hope you find much to enjoy in these stories by and for the 

worldwide Autistic community. 

This issue includes letters to the editor from readers from around the world, including Yesim Zorlu, 

mother of Beril Zorlu, a young stage performer from Turkey at last year’s International Naturally 

Autistic People (INAP) Awards. Articles in this issue include one from Vell Baria, 2016 INAP Award 

Recipient for Performing Arts, on her experience performing with other musicians with Autism at 

those Awards; another from ANCA World Ambassador Liz Pritchard, on the therapeutic effect of 

her art; and a piece by Carol Holst, on the challenges a person with high-functioning Autism has 

with a cross-country move with her family. 

As always, we welcome your comments and story ideas. All of us at Naturally Autistic magazine 

hope you enjoy this issue, and look forward to our next issue in Fall 2017. 

—Bob Delaney 

We are much blessed and 

honored to be part of the Autism 

festival, which became memorable 

for this mother-daughter team. 

Dealing with Autism, I never forget 

that “God has a purpose” in my life, 

which motivated me to be proud 

of my Autism because it’s within me 

and it will carry throughout my life. 

In spite of such challenges with my 

parents, especially to mom, in their 

mind I am a strong person who is 

highly supported with much love. Dealing with my struggles, 

I was very edgy and serious about what I feel and 

what I think, especially from other people’s points of view. 

I never bothered myself with their feelings towards me, but 

take it as if it’s nothing at all. 

Hearing this ANCA organization is such a “mind blowing” 

feel for both of us and it changed my life and my 

being as a person with Autism. We also feel that we are 

out of the nutshell as we get to know other delegates with 

such amazing backgrounds as well. It is such a fantastic 

feel that we can also listen to their stories, get along together 

and even join the fun. 

As one of the trade show exhibit members, I feel 

blessed to have my way of having fan service in which all 

of the delegates are the fans by having them signed in 

the guestbook/dedication notebook to keep me motivated 

in reaching my dreams and goals. This is a new way 

of not just introducing myself in a basic manner, but also 

my refined way of approaching them one-by-one and 

sometimes by their approach! 

I attended workshops made by the amazing workshop 

presenters in which I was also one of the workshop presenters. 

It was both touching and convincingly unforgettable! 

If I were giving a chance to be part of the ANCA team, 

I will be much honored to be part of it and to lend a helping 

hand, especially they’re needing an in-house performer 

for the succeeding Autism festivals. I can also take part 

as an actress-director in an Autism-related film for awareness! 

So just call my name and I’ll be there! 

On behalf of my mom and myself, we sincerely thank 

ANCA for motivating me to shine like a leader and giving 

me the chance to share my expertise and skills for other 

people to appreciate. This has also changed me as a 

person dealing with the spectrum. I’m hoping for more opportunities 

to work with ANCA as I go on. 

Vell Baria 

Vocalist, Actress, Songwriter, Advocate 

Philippines 

My name is Lawana Jones, and I 

am the parent of a 28 year old Autistic 

daughter named, Marsche. 

We live in Rochester, New York USA, 

and I am also the Founder & Executive 

Director of The Autism Council 

of Rochester. I first connected with 

ANCA in Fall 2016, when I attended 

my first INAP Awards in Vancouver, 

BC. I was also nominated for the 

2016 INAP Community Leadership 

Award. The event changed my 

life in many ways. First it gave me a renewed passion 

and fire, to come home and continue with the work that 

I have been doing in my own community over the last 

ten years. Secondly I saw up close the love, pride, and 

support amongst all of the attendees of the event, and 

those of the worldwide Autistic community. And thirdly, 

Leonora and Charlie made me feel that I am not alone in 

the fight for my family member, and those in the community 

that I advocate so strongly for on a daily basis. And 

lastly, I was very encouraged to see so many government 

officials and delegates from around the globe that 

support the work of ANCA. This is extremely important 

work that we do, and we have to ensure that the world is 

aware of the many wonderful gifts, talents and love that 

the Autistic community has to share. 

Thank you Leonora and Charlie for creating ANCA 

and opening my eyes beyond my own small community 

12 | www.naturallyautistic.com

LETTERSTOTHEEDITOR 

in New York State, and to the wonderful contributions, 

beauty and strength of the Autistic community that can 

be found all around the world! 

Ms. Lawana Jones, President & Chief Executive Officer 

Autism Expert & Certified Autism Specialist 

The Autism Council of Rochester, NY, USA 

Dear Editor, 

My name is Cyndy Pritchard and 

my 23-year-old daughter Elizabeth 

is on the Autism Spectrum. Like 

many girls, she was not diagnosed 

until she was 15 years old because 

she blended in enough to be 

considered a “quirky” neurotypical. 

Since her diagnosis, she has 

continued to struggle with not only 

the stigma of autism but the lack of 

understanding the general public 

seems to have regarding ASD. I support her in her life’s 

mission to educate the public to see the amazing skills, 

talents, and achievements of the autistic community. In 

2016, we were blessed to read about ANCA and learn 

about the INAP Awards. Liz was nominated in the category 

of Visual Arts. Our visit to the 2016 7th Annual ANCA 

World Autism Festival was amazing and life-changing! 

The incredible programs, workshops, and ceremonies 

provided an electrifying atmosphere full of energy, hope, 

and connections. We felt like we were “home” with such 

a positive, loving and supportive group of people. ANCA 

proudly celebrates and respects autistic individuals’ 

humanity, talent and creativity, and the World Autism 

Festival provides a venue to showcase all of their spectacular 

gifts to our world. Liz and I made many friends 

and were able to connect with autistic families from 

different cultures. We are proud and honored that Liz has 

been chosen as an Ambassador for the U.S. for ANCA. 

We are looking forward to participating in the highly 

anticipated AutismHWY Chalk Festival on April 1, 2017. We 

will also be returning to the 8th Annual ANCA World 

Autism Festival in Fall 2017 to reconnect with our ANCA 

family and make new friends! Thank you to Leonora 

Gregory-Collura and Charlie Collura for all of your persistence, 

patience, and passion that has provided such 

important, positive information, education and opportunities 

for autistic people of all ages. ANCA is helping to 

build bridges of communication to enlighten society to 

the strength and beauty of autistic people and connect 

us all! 

Hello from Turkey. Hello from Izmir. 

The 7th ANCA World Autism Festival 

was the scene of unforgettable moments 

for us. After my twelve hour 

trip with my daughter Beril Zorlu, 

who won the third prize as a young 

stage performer, it was great to see 

the Autistic people from around the 

world in Vancouver and the beautiful 

works they accomplished. 

It was great to take part in the 

opening ceremony with the consulates 

of the countries, to pose on the red carpet, and to 

watch the performances on stage in front of my daughter's 

world representatives. 

We were proud to be in the national press and social 

media with our success in our country. 

I would like to thank Erdal Ates, who introduced us to 

ANCA; Orçun Berrakçay, music teacher, who accompanied 

us on our journey; Leonora and Charlie; and, the allvolunteer 

organization team for their close interest and 

affection throughout the organization. 

Turkish 

Love and greetings, Beril's mother, Yeşim Zorlu 

Türkiye’den, İzmir’den Merhaba, 

7.ANCA world autism festival bizim için unutulmaz anlara 

sahne oldu. Genç Sahne Sanatçısı olarak 3.lük ödülü alan kızım 

Beril Zorlu ile birlikte 2 saat süren yolculuk sonrası geldiğimiz 

Vancouver’da dünyanın dört bir yanından otizmliler ve onların 

başardıkları güzel işleri görmek çok güzel oldu. 

Açılış töreninde ülkelerin konsolosları ile birlikte yer almak, 

kırmızı halıda poz vermek, kızımın dünya temsilcileri önünde 

sahne performansını izlemek muhteşemdi. 

Ülkemizde de bu başarı ile ulusal basında ve sosyal medyada 

yer almak gurur vericiydi. 

Bizleri ANCA ile tanıştıran Erdal Ateş›e, yolculuğumuzda 

eşlik eden müzik öğretmenimiz Orçun Berrakçay’a, 

organizasyon boyunca yakın ilgileri ve sevgileri için Leonora 

ve Charlie’ye, tüm gönüllü organizasyon ekibine çok teşekkür 

ederim...Yesim Zorlu, Izmir Turkey. 

Sevgi ve selamlar, Beril›in annesi Yeşim Zorlu, Izmir, Turkey 

Cyndy Pritchard 

Spencerport, New York USA 


13

A Shift in Perspective: 

INSPIRING INCLUSION 

THROUGH ILLUSTRATION 

By Liz Pritchard 

ite comic book characters. I was often misunderstood and 

bullied throughout school, and had to change schools several 

times because of this. I gradually became withdrawn 

and isolated, and it wasn’t until late in the 10th grade that I 

started creating comic books about my experiences of living 

with high-functioning Autism and mental illness. Art had 

always been very therapeutic for me, providing a healthy 

outlet for me to communicate and express my thoughts 

and feelings when words were too difficult. 

My art had begun to manifest into a serious structure 

from that point onward. My main goal in creating these 

comics is to help erase the negative stigma that often surrounds 

these conditions. Art has always been a personal 

vehicle that enabled me to get my messages across to other 

people. I incorporate my personal experiences into my 

work, and providing visuals in place of words gives ideas 

and concepts a more tangible quality that others can connect 

with. A lot of my art deals with self-doubt, learning to 

cope with it, and coming to terms with it. 

PIC 

PIC 

I realized I had a gift for art since I was very young, at 

about nine years of age. I’ve been creating art since I 

was about three years old. My interest in comic books and 

manga has greatly influenced my artistic style, and has 

helped me build connections with people who I am still in 

contact with to this day. I would often prefer to draw with 

pencil on paper, and I always drew pictures of my favor- 

Doubt is intangible, but that doesn’t and shouldn’t negate 

how real it is to myself and many others. I am currently 

in my last year of higher education studying art and psychology. 

My goal is to become a professional comic book 

artist, and reach many people with my work in hopes to 

show others that they are not alone. I would also like to 

volunteer working with young children on the Autism Spectrum 

through art therapy programs. Animation has always 

been a special interest of mine, and I would eventually like 

to animate my comic books into a film. 

My spatial awareness in visualizing the relationship with 

the body of work and how I execute my ideas is natural 

14 | www.naturallyautistic.com

PIC 

to me. Each composition I create reflects 

my psyche, and I present my art 

as a representation of how my mind 

works—like organized chaos. Each 

image I illustrate has layers and a lot 

of depth conceptually. I never really 

plan ahead with a page, I just let my 

subconscious flow out on to the paper 

and I see where it takes me. 

Many art courses I have taken 

have forced me out of my comfort 

zone, and this really helped me gain 

further awareness of different media 

in the art making process. I feel that 

my Autism is a gift that enables me to 

see the world in a unique way, and I 

use this gift to help others by raising 

awareness through my work. My art 

has layers of different meanings and 

messages within each image. When I 

create art, I want others to feel inspired 

and I want people to feel what 

I feel. My comics do not focus on labels, 

because focusing too much on 

labels detracts from the feelings of 

the individual. My work expresses the 

feelings of what it’s like living with highfunctioning 

Autism and mental illness. I 

want others to know that they are not 

alone. 

Becoming an entrepreneur 

evolved when I had begun to realize 

the connections other people were 

making with my art work. I pushed myself 

to learn more about myself and 

others. By putting myself out there, I 

am able to reach out and connect 

with more people. This realization led 

to wanting to inspire and help others 

through my comics on a much larger 

scale, so I had begun self-publishing 

my comics and started attending 

comic book conventions in various 

scenes and locations. 

I want whoever reads this to know 

that putting yourself out of your comfort 

zone is not easy and it’s scary, but 

it will definitely help you in the long run. 

By pushing yourself, you will gain more 

insight and awareness about yourself 

and others. By doing so, you may surprise 

yourself with how much you can 

accomplish! Sometimes when you get 

to a low point, you may think you’re 

not worthy of what’s best for you, but 

you really are. My work focuses on 

learning to work with my insecurities, 

instead of fighting against them so 

much. Part of my journey is learning 

to love all of myself, and I hope that 

others can do the same—shifting from 

fear to love. 

I found out about the International 

Naturally Autistic People Awards 

through my mother, Cyndy Pritchard, 

who nominated me. My mother was 

researching Autism organizations on 

the Internet, and happened to find 

the ANCA organization. She thought 

it would be an incredible opportunity 

for me to connect with other autistic 

individuals and she was right! The 7th 

Annual ANCA World Autism Festival 

was life-changing for me, and everyone 

in this community is so warm and 

welcoming. Everyone here at ANCA is 

on the same page and very accepting; 

it’s like home away from home. 

Each person I’ve met in this culturally-diverse 

forum has incredible talents, 

and it was very eye-opening to 

see how other cultures and countries 

perceive Autism. Each country views 

Autism in different ways, but it’s something 

we all share and is what helps us 

connect with one another. 

ANCA bridges the gaps between 

misconceptions and the truth about 

Autism. Autism is what it means to be 

genuine, open, and accepting. Autism 

is love. As an ANCA World Ambassador, 

my duty is to promote, connect, 

network, and represent what ANCA 

stands for, and I couldn’t be happier 

to be a part of this amazing community. 

• 

Liz Pritchard 

Rochester, New York, USA 


15

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September 29-October 4, 2017 

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1100 Granville Street, Vancouver B.C. Canada

Styles 


By Archie David PhD. 

I carry with me fond memories of Vancouver made 

special by the inspiring people I have met at the 2016 

ANCA World Autism Festival (AWAF). The AWAF was truly 

a one of a kind gathering where empowered people in 

the Autism spectrum, their families and advocates came 

not just to convene, but to connect. 

Connection was experienced in several fronts. First, 

international speakers from different parts of the globe 

shared innovative practices and programs with an overarching 

objective of helping the audience better empower 

their loved ones with Autism. As a professional, I 

was certainly able to take with me insights to further 

enrich my work at home. Likewise, it was a privilege to 

be invited to share some of my work to my international 

counterparts. The conference has demonstrated that a 

myriad of innovative and exciting bodies of work spring 

from less traditional grounds which are wanting to be fully 

harnessed and enjoyed. 

The trade show was a wonderful gallery of literary 

work and visual arts created by the masterful hands of 

persons within the spectrum and by their family. Seeing 

how unconditionally their families love them is truly inspiring 

and heartwarming. The evening gala wherein delegates 

proudly garbed their national attire and performed 

traditional presentations held deeper meaning than a 

cultural celebration. 

To me, it was 

a colorful symbolism 

of a bond 

which unifies all 

the delegates 

of the AWAF—a 

global advocacy 

for a more inclusive 

world. 

The movie gallery 

which offered 

an array of films 

not only chronicled 

the lives and 

story of individuals 

who overcame 

activity limitations, 

they offered to us 

a platform for selfreflection. 

Despite 

all the perceived 

obstacles that the 

universe seems to hurl against us, aren’t we ultimately the 

determinants of our own destiny? Challenges progress to 

thoughtful thinking, self-awareness, creation, contribution 

and—finally— purpose. 

Lastly, the ANCA awards were conferred to recognize 

individuals whose work has made a palpable impact on 

the lives of persons with Autism and their loved ones. I am 

deeply humbled to be recognized as among the award’s 

recipients. Hearing the work of fellow advocates from all 

over the world indeed gives us much hope. 

But surely, despite all the amazing work celebrated 

and highlighted at the AWAF, much work needs to be 

done. This awareness is what fuels the indefatigable 

Charlie and Leonora, the creators of ANCA, and their son 

Anthony, a silent yet most effective advocate, to provide 

avenues for our collective voice to be heard and to instigate 

positive change first within us, then to the world. • 

Archie David, Philippines 

18 


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Styles 

My Home; 

My Fairy Jam Jar 

By Joely Colmer 

What is a home? It is more than just shelter, more than 

a place to survive; it is somewhere you can thrive, in the 

comfortable space that is yours. My name is Joely Colmer, 

I am 24 years old and I have a gift on the Autistic Spectrum. 

I live in England, and I am an award-winning Autism 

Activist, author of “AspergerWorld: My Fairy Jam Jar,” and 

an ANCA Ambassador representing the UK. My Fairy Jam 

Jar is my home where I am empowered to be the best 

I can be, because my gift of a disability makes me feel 

like a little fairy, living inside a quaint jam jar; witnessing 

the world from a different angle, deaf to certain language 

and happily powerless to escape. You see, with support, I 

have grown to love my Fairy Jam Jar. 

I have started a terrifying, but incredible, adventure. 

You see, I have recently moved out of my parent’s home, 

into my own flat; entering an unknown realm of independent 

living. Where once I was a struggling and fragile fairy, 

who had 15/100 life skills; I couldn’t cook, struggled to 

leave the house, and cope with daily disabling shutdowns, 

yet now I have flourished. I have gained super powers, my 

wings lifting me up, and within months, I have become my 

own kind of independent and able, super Fairy. 

You see, my Jam Jar is special; it’s tiny, but I love it. This 

is because, with help from my family, we have empowered 

me for independence, by organising me and my 

living space, alongside patiently teaching me life skills. 

● I have a wide selection of soft and furry things; 

pillows, cushions, blankets, clothes, carpets, etc. 

● The walls are mostly bare and lightly coloured. 

● I have lists everywhere to help organise me. 

● A timetable of what to do for daily life to organise 

my time, and what medication I need to take. 

● No space or work surface is left cluttered. Instead, 

20 


Styles 

PIC 

surfaces and the floor are minimalistic; the ‘clutter’ is 

organised in clearly labelled boxes and stored out of 

sight, so I always know where to find what I need, and 

can easily access. 

● Daily Gentle exercise, art and music therapy, weighted 

blankets, sensory lights, sensory stress balls and routinely 

work/Activism. 

I cannot express how important it is that living spaces 

are tidy and clean. There is nothing more overloading and 

overwhelming than living in a space that is unhealthy for 

your mind. In this way, mess on the floor, or surfaces, or 

having belongings that are disorganised is counter-productive 

to those on the Autistic Spectrum like me. When 

every detail is noticeable, and distracts you, I’m sure you 

can imagine how having loads of stuff, disorganised and 

cluttering all space, is incredibly overwhelming, preventing 

holistic growth and development. 

If I didn’t have these living 

arrangements, I would 

be having meltdowns every 

other minute, with everything 

I would try to do 

becoming an impossible 

task that my problem solving, 

lack of connectivity, 

shutdowns, social imagination 

and poor focus is just 

not able to cope with. I 

would be unable to leave 

the house or develop and 

build any new or existing 

skills. This is because every 

little thing I would try 

to do would be so much 

harder because I would 

be forced to focus on the 

mess, and problem solving 

issues like where things 

are, organising things, that 

could be prevented. If a 

living space is clean and 

organised, then my brain 

doesn’t have to focus on 

the unnecessary, leaving 

room to focus on what as 

important—development 

and well-being. 

In my Autism friendly 

little flat, my Jam Jar, I now 

feel able, independent 

and free, able to leave 

the flat when I please, cook, do jobs and live as I wish to. 

I can now cope with shutdowns and overloads because 

my environment is clear and calming. I feel as if I can just 

fly away; can you see my wings fluttering? Inside my Jam 

Jar, I have abilities. I have a gift. I am empowered. 

I am an Autistic Super Fairy. 

P.S…If you wish to discover 

more about Asperger’s, 

please pre-order my book; 

“AspergerWorld: My Fairy 

Jam Jar,” which inspires 

positive understanding of 

the hidden depths and 

quirks of the Autistic Spectrum, 

from my rare professional 

and personal perspective. 

Reviewed by 

Autism and educational 

professionals and those interested in the Autism Spectrum 

as “the best book on the subject I have read” and “I 

wish I had this book at the start of my Special Educational 

Needs Career.” • 

Joely Colmer, England 

www.aspergerworld.co.uk 


21

Styles 

ON the MOVE 

By Carol Holst 

Ah, yes. A cross country move; employment prospects 

uncertain, house unsold, new apartment that we’ve never 

seen. And did we mention Autism? Combine these in a 

big pot along with some okra and my, do we ever have 

gumbo. Sheesh. Now, if you are still reading this you may 

wonder what I’m talking about, so I shall stop for a moment 

and pull my thoughts together so the remainder of 

this little essay is somewhat coherent. Ahem… 

My husband and I decided to move from our home 

town near Houston, Texas to Washington State after our 

son Eric moved there two years prior. We both resigned our 

jobs, sold our pickup truck and gave away many belongings 

so we could fit possessions and two large dogs into 

an SUV and a 17-foot (5.2 m) moving van. Downsizing and 

driving 2500 miles (4023 km) to move is a huge undertaking 

for anyone, but couple it with Autism (I was diagnosed 

at age 52) and my goodness, what a challenge, so they 

say. I honestly don’t know how something like this affects 

me and Eric (also autistic) differently than other people, 

but that’s not the point. 

Anyway, here is some advice for surviving such a thing 

without going completely bonkers. For one, if parting with 

inherited furniture is troublesome, find people you know 

who may appreciate your items and the stories behind 

them. After all, you won’t see your old friends as often and 

they may want to keep something that reminds them of 

you. Then donate the rest of your items if practical to do 

so, meaning you won’t miss the money you would otherwise 

get from a garage sale. We gave some furniture 

to some young newlyweds. They painted it, and the new 

life they breathed it into 

is amazing. I think my 

late uncle would be 

happy with the results. 

Did I mention we have 

a lovely view of Mt. 

Rainier from our balcony? 

So why do we need 

bulky furniture? Easy. 

We don’t. 

Okay, that takes 

care of some obvious 

things. What about 

the not so obvious 

things, like the items 

that live in cabinets, 

closets, the garage, 

and places like that? 

Find a place to put the 

items that need sorting, and clear these items one shelf 

from one closet at a time. One of my challenges is photographs 

and greeting cards. Going through these things 

can trigger strong emotions if you have many small 

souvenirs of people who no longer exist in your physical 

life. The process of organizing can become overwhelming, 

so have a few boxes available for them before 

you start. Label the boxes and put them out of the 

way when they are full. And when it’s time to unload the 

moving van, finding a place to keep them tidy will be a little 

easier, until you open one and see the mess. Eek! That’s 

22 


Styles 

okay, you can organize 

them and put the contents 

into photo albums 

and scrapbooks when 

you’re ready. 

Gardeners, give your 

plants away before 

moving. We relocated 

to the Pacific Northwest 

from a semi-tropical 

climate, so my plants 

and flowerpots went to 

friends who sometimes 

send pictures of them in 

their new home in their 

old climate. Wait until 

you get settled before 

obtaining new plants, 

but if nature is an essential part of your world be sure to 

set up a space to enjoy watching the birds, the weather, 

things like that to fulfill the need for green flowering babies. 

Pack one room at a time. Moving is a great way to 

get rid of unessential items from the kitchen and the bathroom. 

Keep sensory items handy though, because trust 

me, you will need them. Moving is stressful. Find a way to 

cope with strong emotions and exhaustion, and rest before 

you know you cannot do any more. Whew, just thinking 

about this is so tiring… 

Ok, one last thing. Food. Keep healthy snacks readily 

available. Plenty of water, protein, that sort of thing. Cooking 

while getting ready to move is a nuisance, but it’s vital 

to keep your body nourished. But this topic is an article on 

its own. Speaking of gumbo. 

Oh yeah. Exercise…Enough. Happy trails! • 

Carol Holst 


23

The ANCA World Autism Festival platform showcases individuals and organisations from all over the world providing 

cultural experiences & common connections of humanity interactively, at each festival venue. The autistic 

experience within the human & cultural experience embodies a universal & diverse language providing: 

“A space where you realise you are not alone.” ~ Nina Roy, India 

The Annual Regional and International Festivals provide opportunities for society within such mediums as cultural, 

artistic, commerce, athletic, technology, leadership & mentorship exchanges. 

The Opening Ceremony embodies the annual themes, shines a light on each countries contribution and celebrates 

the talent from around the globe, whilst the Trade Show Exhibitors with Open Mic platforms & Performance 

Art, experience the interactive time to share their products, services and innovations. 

The AWARDS Ceremony highlights the achievements driven by a deep desire to use one’s talent and initiatives 

creating an inclusive society for all embedded in cultures of tradition, nature, festivities and vision. 

The annual interactive workshop presenters are purveyors of common goals highlighting effective solutions with 

shared values and beliefs embedded in humanity and a desire to strive for common bonds, the common good. 

Long lasting friendships are made across the globe, partnerships are created with shared life experiences & values, 

new ideas and visions are fostered, opportunities emerge… 

In this issue we share with you some examples of the experiences from delegates who attended the 2016 

AWAF event – here is what they had to say: 

“….Autistics are such a brilliant light in this often time isolating and competitive world; my hope, concerning 

the 8th annual event in 2017, is that more individuals will be as fortunate as I was to attend, and that 

they, too, can take away with them a sense of gratitude and connection….” 

—Samantha Craft, M.Ed., Author of Everyday Asperger’s and Community Manage of ULTRA Testing. 

WELCOME TO Quat Props 

Showcasing the inventive works of Craig Quat, Wales 

Introducing the JUGGLE BOARD, the World's first 

platform to facilitate inclusive juggling. The JUGGLE 

BOARD takes the traditional challenges of juggling & 

adapts them to form a fully accessible environment. 

Instead of throwing, it uses tracks to control the 

balls so you can roll them back & forth. The JUGGLE 

BOARD promotes healthy physical activity and social 

engagement. Juggling is proven to improve brain 

function, increase co-ordination, concentration & be a 

great source of active relaxation. 

“This is a good activity for my daughter or for a young 

child. The board needs two people and uses eyes, 

hands, and a pattern. Indeed, this board is very good 

for kids; not even for Autistic kids only, but good for all. 

After the Festival, I have thought about the board and 

come up with some idea. This board can be developed 

with an Android system with a small screen to setup a 

pattern and for one child to control pattern and speed.” 

—Omerjan Bore – AWAF delegate 2016, Canada 

“His mathematically patterned way of thinking 

creates a powerful flow. The flow people need to 

break up old patterns. His fluid thinking and energy 

are transferred to those he connects with through his 

‘juggling’ work. 

Watching the way he quickly differentiates his 

alignment with each individual through the patterned 

flow he facilitates is incredible. So engaging, helpful and 

life changing for people of all ages and stages. Through 

24 


movement and fun Craig challenges and sharpens brain 

connectivity beyond belief. “Craig sees where someone 

is at. Meets them there and dares to take them places 

they have not been or yet realized they can master. 

Thank-YOU Craig for this game changing work! I also 

thank ANCA for allowing the opportunity for so many of 

us to learn from and meet such an important visionary as 

Mr. Craig Quat. One of the many fantastic ANCA global 

delegates, nominees and recipients gathered at the 

2016 AWAF that go far beyond “the norm” for Autistic 

people.” —Kelly Green – Interactive Workshop Presenter 

& 2016 INAP WARDS Nominee 

WELCOME TO Terapia 3C 

Coordination, concentration, awareness – Autistic 

Psychomotor Therapy (PAT) – Founder, Paul Cojocaru, 

Romania 

“This is funny for my daughter. We have played in 

the festival and also played some times at home. From 

his videos, I learned that 3C therapy is not only with the 

hands, but also with legs and feet. Again, this is also with 

a pattern. It makes the game funny, different and lovely. 

This can be a very good game for kids. If it is made with 

a computer, it is also very good. After I attended the 

World Autism Festival, I come up with this question: Why 

is Autistic people/therapy so much related to pattern? 


In conclusion, we believe that the 3C Therapy is a very 

interesting methodology for gaining better psychomotor 

coordination—which means autonomy for Autistic 

People. This methodology has a great potential, and it 

surely deserves to be developed and popularized to a 

wider audience.—Alessandro e Lisa Perini, Italy – 2016 

INAP AWARD recipient, Italian delegation 

WELCOME TO Autism HWY.com 

“Chalk It for Autism” – Founder, Kelly Green, USA 

“Freedom, freedom, freedom, freedom, time is running 

out! A line from my favorite Japanese boy band 

NEWS’s song “FREEDOM” has something to do in this 

workshop by Ms. Kelly Green. I have love for chalks as a 

kid, writing something in mind then creating another one 

until in my college, I have made this habit again and 

taking a photo of it! While attending this workshop, we 

were asked to draw what we have in mind. I preferred 

to have myself a free-your-mind of doing it, in which I did 

put “Chicken love” because of love for chicken in which 

she liked as well. I even tried coloring the eagle with 

Pentel pens. Apart from my experience, I was so in awe 

with other attendees’ creativity! I was also amused with 

their creativity in which I was so inspired and envious in 

a good way!! What a great start to use chalks for my art 

works in the future. So it’s time to put up a graffiti wall with 

chalk arts and that will make the world more magical 

and free not only for the autism community but to the 

world as well!!” —Vell Baria, 2016 INAP AWARD recipient, 

workshop presenter & performance artist, Philippines 

“…was inspirational, and hearing all of the great 

accomp-lishments and connections she’s made is 

amazing. Chalk is such an accessible device that can 

be used to connect communities together. Art is a 

powerful vehicle that can be utilized to connect and 

communicate with others, and I’m looking forward to 

chalking it up this coming year at the ANCA regionals! 

—Liz Pritchard, Rochester, New York, USA 

“We found very interesting the workshop experience 

at the 7th AWAF in Vancouver with Paul Cojocaru, 

who showed us the 3C Therapy. We believe that Paul 

Cojocaru has conceived a newsworthy and efficacious 

methodology which helps people with Autistic Spectrum 

Disorder—and not only them, anybody as a matter 

of fact—to be more conscious of their psychomotor 

coordination, improving it in their daily actions and 

effectively increasing their capacity for autonomy. 

The methodology consists of specific coordination 

exercises that we made and tested ourselves during 

the workshop, under the instructions of Paul Cojocaru. 

We actually felt that through these exercises we were 

working on our central nervous system, it was like a 

training helpful for reinforcing the neural connections. 

to page 26 


25

from page 25 

WELCOME TO Spectrum Singles 

A Dating Site For Those on The Spectrum 

Founders, Kirsten Fitzpatrick & Olivia Cantu, an autistic 

mother-daughter duo launch Spectrum Singles, a site to 

connect those on the spectrum! USA 

“Thinking of having a date or having new friends? This 

workshop has its story to tell and it will tell you benefits 

about the art of making friends and have dating more 

convenient especially for us living in the spectrum. 

I may not be a big fan of so called online dating myself 

but I saw many dating sites online that scatters along 

different websites. Dating sites are not bad, but needs 

attention and such safety like sharing personal details (in 

which it’s very basic in general). Speaking of this, not all 

people especially our family members and friends who 

have no idea about their fellow with “Autism” or lacking 

awareness of it. 

Their dating site played a major role in shaping the 

relationships with many Autistic people who want to 

make new friends and even date them for their search of 

happiness and to relieve their anxiety in which is the main 

goal. I did learn a lot from this mother-daughter team 

about this interesting dating site! 

—Vell Baria, 2016 INAP AWARD recipient, workshop 

presenter & performance artist, Philippines 

GENERAL REVIEWS 

My description of my experiences with the ANCA 

World Autism Festival Workshops from this past year: 

“A number of the workshops at the ANCA World 

Autism Festival are designed and given by autistics for 

autistics, and this enables us to connect with each other 

on multiple levels. They don’t have to guess about what 

it’s like to be an autistic person, because they are a part 

of the autistic community. Presenters who are not autistic 

include professionals whose life work is to find ways to 

improve quality of life and provide support especially in the 

areas of physical activity, coordination, mindfulness, selfadvocacy, 

and creative expression —also enhancing 

self-awareness, which comes from all of these things. 

Some examples of workshops I’ve attended 

present excellent examples of creative expression, selfadvocacy, 

mind-fulness, and self-awareness were at Vell 

Baria and Joely Coelmer’s workshop on empowering 

autistic women, and Kelly Green’s chalk art workshop 

in which we created art together with chalk. Inna 

Sergiyenko’s mindfulness work-shop was very insightful 

too, and provided a positive approach in regard to body 

and mind awareness and listening to your body.” 

—Liz Pritchard, Rochester, NY-USA 

Those workshops are so much good, they give me a 

lots of ideas on my daughter’s therapy. I am really happy 

to attend this festival. I appreciate the World Autism 

Festival! 

After my daughter diagnosed with autism, I was lost 

for a while. Those was my hard times. However, I did work 

very hard and my daughter started to change. I had 

some hope after seeing the changes, but after attending 

the World Autism Festival, I had so much confidence 

and much more hope on my daughter’s future. I meet 

so many successful Autistic people like Leonora, Charlie, 

Tammy Klein, Kirsten, Olivia, Joshua and there was much 

more; I couldn’t remember their names. Also, those 

workshops are so much good, they give me a lots of 

ideas on my daughter’s therapy. I am really happy to 

attend this festival. I appreciate the World Autism Festival 


As a delegate myself, I attended amazing workshops 

made by delegates who are experts, not only experts 

in showing their skills of a single skill but also sharing it to 

others like what I did in my performing. I attended four 

workshops all in all and I’ll share to you the most important 

pointers that I’ve learned from the workshop facilitators. 

Vell Baria, Philippines 

This event was an amazing opportunity to network 

with Autistic professionals from all over the world. We look 

forward to possibly collaborating with these individuals 

on some projects in the future. 

—Kirsten Fitzpatrick, Co-Founder at SpectrumSingles.com 

and CEO at Spectrum Media, Inc. 

I believe ANCA could help more people to fulfill their 

dreams, especially the Autistic people and their families! 

Thanks ANCA for providing the wonderful opportunity 

for us. It was our honor to be one of this year’s festival 

delegates. In the beginning, Danny felt very nervous 

and uncomfortable, because he couldn’t adjust to the 

jet lag, the weather, and the food in Vancouver. Luckily, 

ANCA’s staff and delegates were very nice, friendly 

and patient, so he almost got over in the final days. We 

want to thank Ms. Leonora Gregory-Collura and ANCA, 

who gave Danny an Honorary Award representing our 

country (Taiwan) as a World Ambassador. Besides, they 

helped Danny to hold a solo art exhibit at the Taiwanese 

Canadian Cultural Society in Vancouver. ANCA helps 

Danny to fulfill his dream. I believe ANCA could help 

more people to fulfill their dreams, especially the Autistic 

people and their families! 

—Andy Chan, Taiwan (Danny Lee’s Brother) 

Connection [2016 AWAF Theme] was experienced in 

several fronts. 

First, international speakers’ [workshops] from different 

parts of the globe shared innovative practices and 

programs with an overarching objective of helping the 

audience better empower their loved ones with autism. 

As a professional, I was certainly able to take with me 

insights to further enrich my work at home. Likewise, it was 

a privilege to be invited to share some of my work to my 

international counterparts. The conference/festival has 

demonstrated that a myriad of innovative and exciting 

bodies of work spring from less traditional grounds which 

are wanting to be fully harnessed and enjoyed. 

—Archie David, Philippines • 

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® 

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Naturally AUTISTIC ® 


YOU’LL NEVER LOOK AT PEOPLE 

THE SAME WAY AGAIN 










CONNECTED: 

A Film About Autistic People 

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS CHARLIE COLLURA LEONORA GREGORY-COLLURA; PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY SONIA SUVAGAU – SONIA 

PRODUCTIONS INC., ORIGINAL SCORE BY SEBASTIAN HUGENECK; FILMED ON LOCATION IN EDINBURGH, 

SCOTLAND BY HANDFACE PRODUCTIONS – PAUL HURLEY PRODUCER, LISA MARSH DIRECTOR 

Nominated “BEST DOCUMENTARY” at HIFF 

® 



CONNECTED: 








CONNECTED: 








CONNECTED: 


EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS CHARLIE COLLURA LEONORA GREGORY-COLLURA; PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY SONIA SUVAGAU – 

SONIA PRODUCTIONS INC., ORIGINAL SCORE BY SEBASTIAN HUGENECK; FILMED ON LOCATION IN EDINBURGH, 


Nominated “BEST DOCUMENTARY” at HIFF

ANCA® Kick-Off 2017 — around the World 

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| | www.naturallyautistic.com



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62icon.com Official Host of the 2017 AWAF Kick-Off 

Taipei, Taiwan, Asia Region #2

ANCA.Spring.2017.Sept.19.final

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