Spectrum Spotlight Profile Callout - Autism Speaks Canada

At Autism Speaks Canada, we’re committed to telling authentic stories of people with autism and their unique strengths, challenges, dreams and goals. Our iconic blue puzzle piece has been reimagined to signify the diversity of perspectives and experiences with autism spectrum disorder and signals our deepened commitment to inclusivity.

Thank you for allowing us to share your story with the autism community across Canada. Hopefully, your story will help inspire others on the spectrum. Please follow three simple steps to be featured in Life on the Spectrum:

Fill out the Q&A below.
Consent to the media release below and press submit.
A member of our marketing team will get in touch with you shortly.

Q&A
If you are filling this out on behalf of someone please answer accordingly.
Name*
What age were you diagnosed with autism and what is your current age?*
Sample: I was diagnosed around six years old, when I was in kindergarten. I was having a problem socializing with other kids my age, was very picky with textures (clothes and food) and could not adapt to change very well. I was taken to see a professional and the result was a diagnosis of autism. Right now I am 15 years old.
Where are you located in Canada?*
Sample: Please insert city / community name along with the name of the province. e.g. Yellowknife, NWT.
What does it mean to you to be autistic?
Sample: It has led to me having difficulty finding friends that really understand me and my intentions. However, that also means that I am greatly appreciative for my friends who really seem to care about me and make an effort to understand me.
What are your autism strengths?
Sample: For one, I am very loyal. I always try to be there for my friends and family and am always willing to listen and help with any problems they may have. Also, I am very focus-oriented and that allows me to really dive deep into subjects that most others may not be interested in. Lastly, if I am shopping, I will feel clothing before even really looking at it. If it doesn’t pass the “feel test” then it doesn’t really matter what it looks like. My autism has allowed me to excel academically. My ability to focus for long periods of time has allowed me to study and be well-prepared for exams. I also have very good recall of information (dates, events, names, numbers, etc.). I am also somewhat of a perfectionist when it comes to writing. I can usually spot a typo or if something just seems off when I am writing thoughts or essays, while also being particular with my word choice.
What are some things that are hard for you?
Sample: Most of my struggles due to my autism involve socializing. I have difficulty making eye contact. When someone is talking to me, I usually am turned to the right and have my ear toward them. I also have difficulty finding something relevant to contribute to conversations, which is why I am not very good at small talk. Lastly, I am very routinized. So, when something pops up and I have to change my routine, it isn’t easy for me, even though I can deal with it a lot more efficiently than I used to.
What role has your family played in your autism journey?
Sample: My family is such a blessing from God. They know and understand my unconventional, often quirky, ways of doing things, and so they are always supportive and offer a different perspective to a situation that I don’t quite know how to handle. They are also my biggest advocates who will stand up and vouch for me when I need them to.
What advice would you give to a person, recently diagnosed with autism, wondering what the future holds for them? What are your goals and hopes for the future?
Sample: I would tell them to embrace their own individuality. No two people (on the spectrum or neurotypical) are the same and having autism just adds to that individual’s unique qualities. Different is not always a bad thing, and the people we look up to (sports stars, celebrities, leaders, etc.) are where they are because they are different.
What five words best describe you?
Sample: Ambitious. Considerate. Loyal. Meticulous. Passionate.
Why are you interested in becoming an Autism Speaks Canada Ambassador?
Sample: I would be proud and excited to be an ambassador. I think it is important to be a voice for our community, and to help raise awareness, understanding, and acceptance of people with autism.
Best way to contact you*
Please let us know your email address or phone number or the best way to contact you.
Please attach two recent profile pictures that we can use on our website and social media. If you would like to be tagged in any of the socials, please provide your handle @ Please try to use a plain white backdrop. Solid colored clothes. Avoid prints and brand names on your clothes. **
Please upload two recent profile pictures
Please make a video of yourself, answering any one of the questions above. Please try to use a plain white backdrop. Solid colored clothes. Avoid prints and brand names on your clothes.
Accepted file types: mp3, mp4, mov, mkv, m4v, avi, flv, mts, 3gp, insv, m2ts.
Please upload video
Consent*
I agree to the terms and conditions on the consent and media release form
Individual OVER the age of 18

I consent to the use of videotape, audio recording, digital information, personal story and/or photographic material, together with names and any illustrations, depictions, pictures, portraits or likeness created from negatives, transparencies, prints or digital information (collectively, the “Material”) depicting myself, my immediate family and/or friends for general release to the public to support the mission and programming initiatives of Autism Speaks Canada. I agree that the Material, as well as copies of and derivative works from the Material, may be used as Autism Speaks Canada or those acting upon the authority or permission of Autism Speaks Canada may deem appropriate. I understand that Autism Speaks Canada will own all rights in the Material and will have the right to broadcast, distribute, exhibit, and otherwise use the Material forever, anywhere in the world, on the internet and in all other media. I understand that Autism Speaks Canada is not obligated to use any of the Material. I understand that Autism Speaks Canada will not pay me or my family for appearing in the Material or its use. I acknowledge that I have no right to inspect and/or approve the Material as used or any work created from or used with such Material. I release Autism Speaks Canada and those acting on behalf of Autism Speaks Canada from and against any and all liability arising out of the exercise of the rights granted by the above and any manipulation, blurring, computer imaging and distortion of the Material, whether intentional or otherwise, that may result from the completion of any work involving the Material.

I acknowledge that use of the Material may lead viewers and others to believe that I, my family or my friends have autism and I hereby waive any right to object to such depiction and any claims of violation of any privacy, publicity or other rights.

For Individuals 18 and below:

If the individual who is or may be appearing in the Material is UNDER the age of 18 purposes of this Consent and Release.

I the Parent/Guardian of the individual who is or may be appearing in the Material have full authority to give Consent and Release, which I have read and approve.
Names of those appearing in the material*
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More information on Life on the Spectrum:
Visit http://www.autismspeaks.ca/life-on-the-spectrum/
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