The Journey

In 2007, my world changed forever. My son, Tyler Ripepi, was diagnosed with autism. Like many parents, I was thrust into a whirlwind of questions, fear, and uncertainty. The journey began with denial, confusion, and a deep emotional reckoning. But through that journey came something more powerful—**acceptance**. As I learned more about Tyler, I realised that autism was not something to be “fixed,” but something to be **understood**. I saw his unique way of connecting with the world, his incredible potential, and his need for a space where he could truly thrive. It wasn’t long before that acceptance transformed into **advocacy**—not just for Tyler, but for every child like him. In 2013, that advocacy gave birth to **Autism Connect**—a place where families could find support, children could find tailored education, and the autism community could find a **voice**. It started small, but the heart behind it was enormous. We were driven by one mission: to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for neurodiverse individuals to grow, learn, and shine. Our first logo—a **key**—symbolised unlocking potential, opening doors to opportunity, and unlocking understanding. But in 2022, our message evolved. We replaced the key with an **open door**, because we are no longer just unlocking potential—we are **inviting** the world in. Autism Connect had grown into a movement, a space of belonging, and an invitation to be part of something greater. In 2023, we launched our **Skills Centre for Young Autistic Adults**, recognising that learning doesn’t end in childhood. It was a bold step to ensure that autistic youth could access skills development, vocational training, and independence. We wanted to empower them to live meaningful, dignified lives—with purpose. Now, we look toward 2025 and beyond, with a vision rooted in **hope and action**. Our dream is to establish a **state-of-the-art facility in Mitchells Plain**—a home for education, therapy, skills development, and community empowerment. It will be more than just a building. It will be a **beacon of hope**, a place where families will no longer feel alone, and where futures are built—one connection at a time. At Autism Connect, we have always stood for more than care—we are a **learning, resource, and advocacy centre**. We are a family. And we are just getting started.