THE 3RD GLOBAL AUTISM CONVENTION

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Global Autism Convention 2026, an international gathering focused on “ Autism in the Global South: Culture, Community, and Neurodiversity” This third edition builds on the foundation laid in 2011 and 2018 and aims to be a vibrant platform for dialogue, learning, and action across cultures and contexts. This year, we especially highlight the voices and innovations emerging from low and middle-income countries, where the need for inclusive, sustainable, and culturally grounded approaches is urgent. As professionals, self-advocates, families, and policymakers, we each bring essential pieces to the puzzle of meaningful autism support. On behalf of the organising team, I extend heartfelt thanks to our institutional partners, collaborating NGOs, sponsors, and every participant contributing to this global conversation. Let this be not just a conference, but a collective step toward systems that respect and celebrate neurodiversity.