The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia (GOCSA) embraced World Autism Month last Wednesday with an inaugural event, signalling its effort to foster awareness and support for the autistic community.
Themed ‘A Spectrum of Possibilities,’ the event, held at GOCSA’s boardroom served as a platform to celebrate neurodiversity and advocate for greater inclusion within multicultural communities.
The event garnered support from local dignitaries, including City of West Torrens Mayor Michael Coxon, who recognised GOCSA’s contribution to the autism awareness cause.
Peter Gonis, vice president of GOCSA, expressed pride in the community’s participation, stating, “It’s important that as one of the state’s oldest multicultural organizations, we play our part in helping increase autism awareness, break down barriers, and promote acceptance and inclusion for autistic individuals, their caregivers, and families.”
Highlighting the need for education and dialogue, Gonis focused on the importance of understanding autism within diverse communities to combat stigma and misconceptions.
Recent statistics reveal that autism diagnoses affect at least 3.2 per cent of school-aged children in Australia, with autistic individuals often facing significant challenges and poorer life outcomes.
Emily Bourke, assistant minister for autism, underscored the importance of dedicated support for the autistic community.
“Autism is the largest primary disability group in the NDIS, and South Australia sits above the national average,” Bourke explained reaffirming the state’s commitment to addressing the needs of this demographic.
Angela Pangallo, chairperson and founder of Gold Foundation, shared a personal story about her son’s autism diagnosis, inspiring her to advocate for other families facing similar challenges.
Pangallo made special mention of how the late president of GOCSA, Bill Gonis, who was “a pioneer and visionary” assisted the organisation in finding a new home at the Camden Park Community
“It is an enormous privilege to be doing this work for the autism community and what a special honour it is that we are doing it with the support of the Greek Orthodox Community. I grew up in the Greek Orthodox Community and my parents were part of the foundations. That gives it an extra layer of meaning and purpose,” Pangallo said.
Also present was tennis champion Andriana Petrakis, who shared her journey autistism, stressing how important resilience and positivity are in overcoming challenges.
Petrakis encouraged greater involvement of individuals with disabilities in various aspects of society, including sports, education, and employment.
“We should encourage each other and people with disabilities to get more involved in sports, schools, workplaces and organisations,” she said.
