July is Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of persons with disabilities while raising awareness of their problems. This year’s theme is “We Want a Life Like Yours,” which personally embodies the aspirations of countless individuals like Sara Bosibori Bitange, a young lady from Nairobi, Kenya. Sarah is autistic.  

Sarah’s journey is a story of acceptance and embracing oneself. She was diagnosed with autism at a young age and she experienced challenges in traditional schooling. “I couldn’t read and write until I was transferred to a special school and that’s when I started improving,” Sarah says. Despite the challenges, her artistic talent became evident, which led her to a specialized school and later to the GoDown Art Center. Here, she refined her skills and even sold her first painting for 5,000 Kenyan shillings. 

A passport photo of Sarah Bosibori smiling and posing for a picture. She is wearing gold hoop earrings, red lipstick and a multi-coloured kimono.

Committed to furthering her studies, Sarah enrolled in a certificate program at the Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts. Still motivated to pursue her talent, Sarah decided to go for a diploma. However, the pressures of a new environment and the struggle to acknowledge her autism led her to depression and suicidal thoughts. At one point, Sarah dropped out of school, and she acknowledges that it was one of the worst moments of her life. But with the support of her family and through involvement with support groups, Sarah discovered her true calling, which was advocacy. 

Since then, Sarah has become a powerful voice for the autistic community in Kenya. As Light of Autism Kenya 2019, she has championed acceptance and neurodiversity awareness. She was also selected for the prestigious YALI program and continues to inspire others through workshops and media appearances. 

Sarah also shares important insights into navigating life with autism. “I love comedy and I believe laughter is the best medicine, so I function with comedy and music which is comforting and soothing,” she shares. One of her biggest challenges has been speaking out, openly discussing her autism and the challenges it presents, but talking with other autistics like her that have gone through the same, creates a clearer picture. 

A black and white passport photo of Sara Bosibori. She has closed her eyes and she’s smiling.

Sarah’s advocacy work has had a significant impact. She has participated in Mr. and Miss Autism Kenya 2019, and this has inspired caregivers and fellow autistic individuals to find hope and see their children through her. She is a role model who demonstrates that autism does not limit one’s potential. 

To Sarah, Disability Pride Month is about embracing her authentic self and celebrating the achievements of others in the neurodivergent community. She states that, “Having to see my fellow neurodivergent breaking their own barriers, it not only a drive but a motivation to continue educating society on our differences”. 

The theme of Disability Pride Month resonates deeply with Sarah’s own aspirations. She, like many others with disabilities, simply wants the opportunity to live a fulfilling life, to contribute her talents, and to achieve her goals. “Disability is never an inability,” Sarah emphasizes. “It’s how you choose to provide a solution to that which isn’t there.”  

Her experiences highlight the areas where society can work towards a more inclusive world. “For example, educational systems should cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring every student can thrive. Also, training programs and tailored support can empower people with disabilities to contribute their skills and talents in the workplace to create job opportunities,” she asserts. 

Looking forward, Sarah dreams of a future where neurodivergent individuals can live independently as homeowners, taking on the responsibilities and sense of accomplishment that come with managing their own households. 

Written by Collins Muturi, Communications & Marketing Intern