BANZA February 2016 Issue | Page 58

Partnerships and networks are essential No man is an island. Autisme Maurice has partnerships with other organisations which are involved in the same exercise around the world. They have a partner organisation in Reunion which offers assistance with specialist training and education and advice. On the other hand, Alefpa France deals with an assortment of disabilities and it provides managerial support. Locally, they are a member of Inclusion, an umbrella organ for 12 organisations dealing with disabilities. Its primary role is to create awareness about disability. Apart from that, volunteers, who are mostly student interns work with them especially in fundraising. Motivation is essential "My prime motivation is my son. Because of him, I am always in motion, pursuing this course. One day he’ll be grown up and independent. Therefore, I want to walk with him in all stages of that transition.’’ Although she is a talented and passionate artist, Mrs Affejee has not been practicing for a long time now. "Life is incessantly evolving. Priorities change. Right now I am not even thinking about it. “ ...one day he’ll be grown up and independent. Therefore, I want to walk with him in all stages of that transition. ’’