Celebrating diversity this World Autism Awareness Day

As visitors arrive at PwC, they are often greeted by the warm smile and diligent service of Jayred Myles, a 26-year-old who has turned his role as a second receptionist into a platform for advocacy and awareness. For the past three years, Myles has been a fixture at the Camana Bay office, skilfully managing tasks from sorting and distributing mail to making coffee and greeting clients.

"[I enjoy] meeting and greeting people with integrity," he said.

But for Myles, every handshake and conversation is more than just part of the job — it's a step toward greater understanding and acceptance of autism.

Myles' journey is especially poignant as the world marks World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April. The day, dedicated to increasing awareness of and fostering worldwide support for autism, holds significant personal meaning for Myles.

"Being autistic, it is something that motivates people with autism," he said.

It's a day that not only spotlights the challenges faced by those with autism, but also celebrates the unique perspectives and abilities they bring to the world.

Autism impacts an estimated 1 in 36 children in the United States alone, affecting individuals across all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups, according to Autism Speaks. World Autism Awareness Day, launched by the United Nations in 2008, emphasises the need for more understanding and adaptive environments that can help individuals with autism achieve and excel in every aspect of life.

"We are who we are, and we all have different skills," Myles said. "Autism is my superpower. I hear things others don’t hear, and I see the world through a different way."

"Autism acceptance is essential," reads a message from the Autism Speaks website, which advocates for advancing policies that support individuals with autism throughout their lives. By fostering a culture of acceptance, communities and workplaces can benefit from the diverse capabilities of people like Myles.

As World Autism Awareness Day approaches, Myles hopes his story will encourage others to look beyond the stereotypes and appreciate the profound contributions that people with autism can make.

Around the Town Centre, lights will shine with rainbow colours throughout the month of April, which is Autism and Neurodiversity Awareness Month. It is a time to recognise and celebrate the minds that inspire different perspectives and approaches in our lives today.

It's a time to reflect on and appreciate the impact of individuals like Myles, who continue to challenge perceptions and transform spaces simply by being themselves.

This article was first published in the April/May 2025 print edition of Camana Bay Times.