- With Bukola Ayinde
-As a mother of a child with special needs, I’ve experienced my share of worry, fear, and sad moments. Over time, I managed to create a balanced system around my daughter, achieving a work-life balance. I was intentional about seeking emotional healing and moving forward with my life. This led me to wonder how other mothers of special needs children were coping with work, community integration, and parenting.
In 2019, my organisation organised a one-day training programme for these mothers. Some were paired with entrepreneurs to learn new skills. However, I soon realised that a single day couldn’t address the deep layers of trauma these women faced. It required much more than a seminar.
We launched our first cohort with a three-month online training programme for mothers, which then expanded to six months and eventually a year. The programme focuses on fostering positive mental health and business development. Some support groups for parents of children with special needs are centred around child care, our group prioritises the mental and financial well-being of the mothers.
Some of my favourite quotes include: “Having a child with special needs is not a death sentence.” “It’s never too late to start over.” “Make the best of your life; you only live once.”
I am thrilled to see the positive effects this group has had on these women. Recently, I asked them to write their experiences, which I will be sharing over the next couple of weeks.
I am proud of the impact the Diary of A Special Needs Mum Initiative has made, and I am incredibly proud of the women who have inspired this change.
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