UK (Commonwealth Union)_ In a world brimming with young talents and visionary leaders, one name has risen to the top as the embodiment of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to social change. Maya Kirti Nanan, the Founder of the Autism Siblings and Friends Network (ASFN), has been honoured as the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year for 2023 at the prestigious Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work. This accolade not only recognizes her exceptional contributions to society but also underscores the importance of inclusion and support for individuals with autism and their families.
Maya’s journey towards becoming the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year is a testament to her passion and perseverance. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, she grew up in a family that instilled in her the values of empathy and social responsibility from a young age. This upbringing laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
The catalyst for Maya’s remarkable journey was her younger brother, who was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Witnessing the challenges her brother faced and the impact it had on her family, Maya felt a deep calling to create a supportive community for siblings and friends of individuals with autism. In 2015, she took the bold step of founding ASFN, a non-profit organization aimed at providing resources, education, and a sense of belonging to those affected by autism.
The glittering awards ceremony was also used to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme.
She received the award from His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, and the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, at an event held on Thursday, 14 September 2023 at St James’s Palace in London.
There were also four other regional winners:
• Mawuse Christina Gyisun – Africa Regional Winner
• Soumya Dabriwal – Asia Regional Winner
• Yi Fei Chen – Europe & Canada Regional Winner
• Raeed Ali – Pacific Regional Winner
Commonly known as the Commonwealth Youth Awards, they recognise the contribution that young people aged 15–29 make towards strengthening democracy and achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The awards ceremony took place in the margins of the Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting. Government ministers, senior government officials, youth leaders and other stakeholders attended the Awards as a part of the week-long ministerial meeting.
There were also four other regional winners:
• Mawuse Christina Gyisun – Africa Regional Winner
• Soumya Dabriwal – Asia Regional Winner
• Yi Fei Chen – Europe & Canada Regional Winner
• Raeed Ali – Pacific Regional Winner
Each of the 20 finalists will receive a trophy, a certificate and £1,000 as their prize. Each of the regional winners will receive an additional £2,000.
His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, remarked: “To all of the finalists, congratulations. It is brilliant work that you are doing and I hope this will stimulate you to do more. [The Commonwealth Youth Awards] are a fantastic demonstration of what happens when you give young people those opportunities and encouragement – I wish you all the best of luck.”
In addition to her work with ASFN, Maya has been a relentless advocate for autism awareness on a global scale. She has spoken at international conferences, engaged with policymakers, and collaborated with organizations to ensure that the voices of those affected by autism are heard and their needs addressed. Her tireless efforts have contributed significantly to shaping policies and perceptions surrounding autism.
Maya’s recognition as the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year for 2023 is a testament to her dedication to making the world a better place for individuals with autism and their families. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young people everywhere, showing that one person’s passion and determination can create a ripple effect of positive change.
In her acceptance speech at the Commonwealth Youth Awards, Maya Kirti Nanan expressed her gratitude and dedication to the cause she holds dear. She emphasized the need for continued efforts to break down barriers and promote inclusivity. Maya’s message is clear: together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and be celebrated.
Maya Kirti Nanan’s journey from a caring sister to a global advocate for autism awareness and inclusion exemplifies the power of youth-driven change. Her story reminds us all that the Commonwealth’s young leaders are shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for our world. Maya Kirti Nanan, the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year for 2023, is a beacon of hope and an inspiration to us all.
