Powerlifter Mubiru honoured for his support to children with autism
Last year, Mubiru opened a home in Gayaza-Manyangwa to give children with autism a chance to learn and receive support from the community.
Roy Mubiru (left) poses with his award alongside Errol Silverman, who hosts "When opportunity doesn't knock" in the US. Courtesy photo
By Michael Nsubuga
Journalists @New Vision
Roy Mubiru, a Ugandan powerlifter living in the US, has been recognised with an honour award for his work helping children with autism.
Last year, Mubiru opened a home in Gayaza-Manyangwa to give children with autism a chance to learn and receive support from the community. The home school in Kabubbu Zone is supported by the Mubiru Foundation and partners from the Lotus Foundation.
The award was given to Mubiru by Errol Silverman, who hosts "When opportunity doesn't knock", during a live program last week. Mubiru competes in World Strongman events and holds powerlifting world records.
Silverman is an award-winning executive producer who runs an inspiring talk show that highlights amazing stories of people from disadvantaged backgrounds who've gone on to achieve great things in different areas.
“You are saving lives of thousands of children with autism, you’ve given them a place to live, you are giving them food and offering them critical autism therapy. Thank you for whatever you have done and what you continue to do, you are a true gentle giant,” Silverman said as he handed him the plaque. Mubiru expressed his gratitude for the recognition and shared his larger goal of creating a new home for 7,000 children with special needs. He also hopes to start farming projects to help them live more independently.
“It’s a great opportunity and a dream come true to receive such recognition. This is wonderful and it is going to inspire many people to trust us more and donate to the Roy Mubiru Foundation because we still have so many kids to save and help in Uganda and Africa,” Mubiru stated.
“There are parents with such special needs children and we want to create awareness that such children can still be of value to the country if helped and prepared for games like the Special Olympics,” Mubiru noted during the opening of the home last year.
Individuals with autism can lead fulfilling lives through proper support, early intervention, education, and community assistance.