At what age were you diagnosed with autism?

I was diagnosed when I was 6 years old. Early on, my parents noticed delays in my speech, and my junior kindergarten teacher noticed differences in how I communicated, played, followed routines, and transitioned from one activity to the next.

How has autism affected your life?

It is difficult for me to socialize, understand others and their feelings, and focus on things that are of no interest to me. I really appreciate rules and guidelines, and feel it is important that everyone follows written rules without compromise. Because of this, I sometimes struggle making friends, because most people like flexibility.

How does it make you unique, and help you excel?

I am more of a visual learner. I love numbers that is why I am very good in math. I don’t follow the standard problem-solving methods, but I excel at solving problems using my own unique skills. I am technically adept and can program a game in block coding from scratch. I create thumbnails in photoshop, and I excel at editing video for my YouTube channel.

What struggles have you faced because of your autism?

I struggle socializing and making friends. It is difficult for me to understand someone’s emotions, and I am not a very good listener unless something is repeated multiple times. It is challenging for me to deviate from rules, whether that is a process or instructions to do something. I find it difficult to go outside and prefer spending time indoors.

How has your family supported you through your autism journey?

I am very lucky to have a loving family and we spend a lot of time together. My parents try their best to help me reach my goals and support my learning in every way. They encouraged me to start my YouTube channel, and my Dad taught me the technical skills that I know today. He also helps me with my academic learning, especially math.

Has your life been impacted by Coronavirus? What are your some of your goals and hope for the future?

Yes, I am more confined to stay at home, except when I go to school. I don’t go to playgrounds, parks, amusement parks, or any stores with my parents. Most of the time we stay inside our house, which has made me a little bit lazy. One of the positive impacts of Coronovirus is that my dad has more time for me now that he works from home. I learned a lot from him over the past year. He has time to help me solve the challenges that I face. Covid also made me self-aware of my health and I understand the importance of social distancing and wearing masks.

What advice would you give to a young person, recently diagnosed with autism, wondering what the future holds for them?

Have confidence in yourself, being different is awesome. Your personality is something that you should be proud of. You will overcome all the problems of your life if you face them with confidence. Your family is the most important part of your life; they love you and they are with you, no matter what others think for you. Your teachers will also play big role in your development. When things are not going as you hope, try to be patient. God is with you and he will change the things in your favor.

What five words best describe you to the world?

Patience, confident, skilled, dedicated, passionate.