The US foreign aid funding freeze is threatening the stability of community-based organizations and their vital work for children and young people worldwide.
Established in 2020, the Robert D. Stillman Dignity Award honors organizations responding to risks and challenges that affect the wellbeing of children and youth. Specifically, the award recognizes organizations that advance the dignity of young people by providing critical services, such as shelter, refuge, and humanitarian aid; fostering economic empowerment; and/or promoting welcoming communities through social inclusion programs. This award was established to honor former GFC Board Chair Bob Stillman.
Meet this year’s winner: Autism Voice
Founded in 2013, Autism Voice is a community-based organization in South London that supports Black and global-majority families facing unique challenges in accessing autism services. Recognizing that cultural differences, language barriers, and a lack of inclusive spaces meant that many autistic children and their families were not receiving the care they deserved, Autism Voice set out to ensure that families had access to autism services that reflected their lived experiences.
Autism Voice offers a wide range of activities designed to support autistic children, young people, and their families across South London. Its programming includes a craft-making course accredited by the National Open College Network, a vibrant social club, and a Saturday multi-sports club – all based in Lambeth. In addition, the organization runs holiday clubs in both Lambeth and Southwark. Through workshops and seminars, Autism Voice also works to boost understanding and awareness of autism, equipping both families and professionals with tools for greater inclusion and care. These spaces and activities are safe, affirming, and fun, designed to help autistic young people express themselves freely, build social skills, and feel a sense of belonging.
Through our work and partnership with London South Bank University and the Participatory Autism Research Collective (PARC), we have delivered three symposiums, and almost a dozen members of Autism Voice have benefited from the London South Bank University education program. I myself graduated with a master’s in education and autism; other members have as well, while some are current students.
Mariama Kandeh, Co-founder and CEO, Autism Voice
One of Autism Voice’s key pillars is a commitment to serving not only autistic children but also their families and caregivers. Many of the families have experienced isolation, judgment, or confusion when navigating autism diagnoses and services. Autism Voice offers peer support groups, wellbeing workshops, and family training sessions in Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham, and Southwark to help build knowledge, confidence, and strong networks of care.
In addition to providing direct support, Autism Voice advocates for greater awareness of autism and fuller inclusion of people with autism in diverse communities. The team works with schools, researchers, and healthcare professionals to improve understanding and promote more inclusive policies and practices. By bridging cultural gaps, Autism Voice is helping professionals in the autism care field approach their work with greater sensitivity and respect, ensuring that families from all backgrounds receive the support they need.
One of the things that Autism Voice is most proud of is the increase of Black professionals in the field of autism, a gap that the organization sought to address from the very beginning. Another key achievement, and one that exemplifies the transformative power of the services Autism Voice provides, is the progress seen in the young people who attend the organization’s programs. Mariama recalled a special moment when a parent reported that their 27-year-old daughter, who had struggled with communication, was now speaking and engaging socially after attending Autism Voice’s social clubs.
“Just yesterday, a parent shared with us that their daughter, who had never spoken coherently before, was now greeting others, shaking hands, and saying, ‘Hello.’” – Mariama Kandeh, Co-founder and CEO, Autism Voice
As it is a small charity, keeping the doors of Autism Voice open can be a challenge. Traditional funding doesn’t always cover the full scope of its work, and the team is constantly looking for new ways to sustain their programs. This makes the support from Global Fund for Children’s 2025 Dignity Award even more important. This funding will ensure that Autism Voice can continue providing services to the children and families who need them most.
“With this support, we can ensure continuity,” Mariama says. “We can keep showing up for young people who haven’t left their homes in years, who are slowly taking steps toward connection and confidence. It means we can stay consistent, stay present, and help transform lives.”
The impact of Autism Voice’s work goes far beyond programming. It is about building trust, creating safe spaces, and offering dignity to families who are often left behind. With this award, Autism Voice will be able to deepen its impact, reach more people, and continue working toward a world where every child is accepted and celebrated.
Autism Voice is a grassroots partner of The Phoenix Way, a grantmaking initiative led by The Ubele Initiative and supported by Global Fund for Children. The initiative aims to transform Black and racially minoritised communities. It was established in partnership with six Regional Leads and with the support of several new UK funders, including The Youth Endowment Fund and the Lloyds Bank Foundation for England & Wales.
