ANCA.Spring.2017.Sept.19.final

Styles
Greetings from Manila
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
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