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Gwanda Hosts Transformational Autism Awareness Seminar in Honour of Autism Awareness Month
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Gwanda Autism Association in partnership with Baobab Educational Assessments Centre, successfully hosted a landmark Autism Awareness Seminar on Friday, 24 April 2026, at Mishies Gwanda hotel conference centre. The event was held in commemoration of Autism Awareness Month and drew parents, educators, healthcare workers, and community leaders from across Matabeleland South.
The well-attended seminar featured insights from 8 speakers including distinguished speakers from Baobab Educational Assessments Centre a team of special needs professionals ; Martha Mutiunovava the Chairperson of Gwanda Autism Association; as well as Barbara Chingwena, a special needs consultant. Each speaker shared practical knowledge and personal perspectives aimed at deepening community understanding of autism, promoting early assessment, and strengthening inclusive education and support systems.
The event was also graced by representatives from the Rural District Council who addressed guests with regards to funding developments available specifically for their community.
Today’s turnout shows that Gwanda is ready to have honest, informed conversations about autism,” said a spokesperson from Baobab Educational Assessments Centre. “The experiences shared by our speakers were not only educational but truly transformational for many families who often feel isolated.”
Key topics included early signs of autism, classroom strategies for teachers, the role of community in supporting neurodivergent children, and the importance of timely assessments. Attendees participated in Q&A sessions and networking forums designed to connect parents with local resources.
The Gwanda Autism Association noted the seminar as a major step forward: “Awareness is the first step to acceptance. We are grateful to every parent, teacher, and professional who attended. Together, we are building a more inclusive Gwanda.”
Baobab Educational Assessments Centre and the Gwanda Autism Association extended their appreciation to all guest speakers, volunteers, and participants for making the event a success. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continue offering training, assessments, and community programs throughout the year.
About the Organisers
The Gwanda Autism Association is a community-based organization advocating for the rights, inclusion, and wellbeing of individuals with autism in Gwanda and surrounding districts. Baobab Educational Assessments Centre provides professional psycho-educational assessments and learning support services for children.
The well-attended seminar featured insights from 8 speakers including distinguished speakers from Baobab Educational Assessments Centre a team of special needs professionals ; Martha Mutiunovava the Chairperson of Gwanda Autism Association; as well as Barbara Chingwena, a special needs consultant. Each speaker shared practical knowledge and personal perspectives aimed at deepening community understanding of autism, promoting early assessment, and strengthening inclusive education and support systems.
The event was also graced by representatives from the Rural District Council who addressed guests with regards to funding developments available specifically for their community.
Today’s turnout shows that Gwanda is ready to have honest, informed conversations about autism,” said a spokesperson from Baobab Educational Assessments Centre. “The experiences shared by our speakers were not only educational but truly transformational for many families who often feel isolated.”
Key topics included early signs of autism, classroom strategies for teachers, the role of community in supporting neurodivergent children, and the importance of timely assessments. Attendees participated in Q&A sessions and networking forums designed to connect parents with local resources.
The Gwanda Autism Association noted the seminar as a major step forward: “Awareness is the first step to acceptance. We are grateful to every parent, teacher, and professional who attended. Together, we are building a more inclusive Gwanda.”
Baobab Educational Assessments Centre and the Gwanda Autism Association extended their appreciation to all guest speakers, volunteers, and participants for making the event a success. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continue offering training, assessments, and community programs throughout the year.
About the Organisers
The Gwanda Autism Association is a community-based organization advocating for the rights, inclusion, and wellbeing of individuals with autism in Gwanda and surrounding districts. Baobab Educational Assessments Centre provides professional psycho-educational assessments and learning support services for children.
Source - Agencies
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