A Journey of Purpose and Advocacy
Solape Azazi has built a multifaceted career that spans writing, documentary production, autism advocacy, social entrepreneurship, and human resources. Her work as a founder of the Cradle Lounge and a national master trainer for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Caregiver Skills Training (CST) programme highlights her deep commitment to supporting children with developmental disorders and their families.
From Zoology to Human Impact
Azazi initially studied zoology at university, driven by a passion for science and the natural world. She found the course intellectually stimulating, particularly in understanding animal biology, ecosystems, and evolutionary behavior. However, she never pursued a career as a zoologist. Instead, her path took a different turn, leading her into human resources and development. This shift was influenced by a growing interest in people, purpose, and impact.
The Spark of Advocacy
Her journey into autism advocacy began when her son was diagnosed with autism at age three. Navigating the challenges of this diagnosis revealed a lack of support and understanding within the system. This experience ignited a sense of responsibility, prompting her to become an advocate for families like hers. She realized that many lacked the tools and direction needed to support their children effectively.
Sustaining Advocacy Through Community and Learning
Sustainability in her advocacy comes from collaboration, community engagement, and continuous learning. By surrounding herself with other change-makers and leveraging both data and lived experiences, Azazi has maintained a strong presence in the field. Her work is not just about trends but about a lifelong commitment to making a difference.
A Son Who Inspires
Her son, who is artistic, intuitive, and musically inclined, has been a profound teacher. His unique perspective on the world—through textures, rhythms, and colors—has reshaped her understanding of neurodiversity. She hopes he grows up feeling safe and accepted for who he is, supported in any field he chooses.
Cradle Lounge: Bridging Awareness and Action
Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative was founded to bridge the gap between awareness and action. The organization focuses on empowering caregivers, training professionals, and advocating for inclusive systems. One of its recent projects involved a four-day free therapy outreach, providing essential services to over 100 families. This initiative brought relief and hope to many, highlighting the importance of accessible support.
Conferences and Advocacy
At the GTCO 2025 Autism Conference, Azazi spoke on the theme “From awareness to action,” emphasizing the need for real policy and support structures. The conference provided a platform for connecting with other advocates and rekindling her passion for the cause. Her talk, titled “From the stage to the streets,” aimed to inspire action beyond discussions, urging the audience to implement inclusion in everyday life.
Recommendations for Improvement
Azazi believes GTCO can improve its advocacy by investing in grassroots interventions, expanding programs to underserved areas, and partnering with organizations like WHO. She also suggests funding inclusive schools and creating employment pathways for autistic adults, ensuring that inclusion extends beyond childhood.
Expectations for Society
She expects society to evolve, recognizing the strengths of autistic adults rather than focusing solely on deficits. Autistic individuals deserve access to jobs that match their skills, relationships that respect their communication styles, and workspaces that accommodate sensory needs.
Books and Documentaries
Azazi’s children’s book, “My Friend Has Autism,” helps young readers understand neurodiversity through friendship. Her documentary, “Echoes of Hope: Navigating Autism in Nigeria,” has sparked important conversations across various platforms. She is currently working on a second children’s book and a new documentary focusing on post-diagnosis support.
Advice for Parents
For parents of autistic children, Azazi advises against the idea of “fixing” the child. Instead, she encourages seeing the child for who they are, seeking education and support, building a community, and celebrating every small victory.
Challenges and Future Goals
Funding and mindset changes remain significant challenges in her work. Looking ahead, Azazi envisions a fully resourced center that combines therapy, training, and respite care, aiming to expand her efforts across West Africa and influence policy. Her ultimate goal is to make inclusion the norm rather than the exception.