We are the AsIAm Youth Leadership Team. We are young, autistic people who want a fairer Ireland for those of us who have Autism. We are aged between 16-25, and come from all 4 provinces of Ireland. We campaign, advise and direct AsIAm’s work on youth issues to ensure they reflect our community’s priorities and aspirations.
MEET THE TEAM
Joanne Weller, Dublin
I wanted to join the Youth Leadership Team as we don’t get to have our say in society, and I wish for our voice to be heard. I want to help others to understand more about Autism, by getting involved in training the public, and services. I love that in the Youth Leadership Team, I have made friends and we are all making a difference to society.
Caitriona Parry, Clare
I wanted to join the Youth Leadership Team as I feel I have a lot of experience to share with everyone. I feel young people in Ireland need more help than they are getting, and I want to be involved in that. We need to raise more awareness about how people with autism are treated. Many young people are not getting the services they need and when they need them. This has to change. I have enjoyed being involved in the Youth Leadership Team as I am helping other young people see that you can also give back to society.
Anthony Redmond, Donegal
I feel that people should know how having autism can truly affect their every day lives. I wanted to get involved with the Youth Leadership Team, as there needs to be more awareness in the education system, and how every student is different, but still has the right to have their needs met. I have loved the experience of making new friends, being involved in discussions and campaigns to change things in Ireland. I want all young people to know that they can achieve whatever they want, no matter what disability they have.
Emma Buckley, Dublin
I want to spread the information that people with autism do struggle everyday, but that there are people and services that can help, and not to feel ashamed of having autism. I enjoy being involved in matters that affect the whole community, and not just myself. I hope I can help all young people with Autism in Ireland.
Kevin Mcloughlin, Clare
I have spent many years adjusting to the fact that I have autism, but now I want to help other young people on that journey too. I first spoke at an AsIAm event, and realised I could get my voice heard and help the work of AsIAm. I would like society one day, to see that having autism is an advantage, no matter who you are, and for people not to be labelled as ‘non-verbal’/’high- functioning’/ ‘low- functioning’. We are all just people trying to deal with everyday life.
Ben Rowsome, Wicklow
I feel that it is good to be a member of the Youth Leadership Team, as I can talk to other young people about autism.I have come on a journey, from someone who did not think I had a place in society to feeling confident about my autism. I would wish that it became second nature in society to be autism friendly. I have seen a society that is not accepting of autism, and can be discriminating. I want to be involved in the change of this. I have enjoyed meeting like-minded people, and getting involved in AsIAm’s work.
Laragh Smith, Wicklow
I am involved in the Youth Leadership Team as I would like there to be more awareness about Autism in society. People have heard the word, but do not meet us half way. We are constantly adapting to fit into the neurotypical world. I hope that one day there is more support in schools, and young people are more understanding of all abilities. I love that I am part of something special, and I am involved in events and campaigns.
