It was all smiles among parents, children, families and friends at Roche Caiman Fitness Trail on Thursday 2 April 2026, as participants gathered for an autism awareness Seychelles event marking World Autism Awareness Day.
In Seychelles, April is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting acceptance of autistic individuals. To begin the month, the Autism Seychelles Association organised its annual fun run.
The activity brought together more than 200 participants from different backgrounds, ages and walks of life. For a moment, differences faded and everyone stood together as equals. There was a shared sense of purpose throughout the event. People supported one another at every step. The atmosphere reflected unity, understanding and respect.
At 17:00, the event began with an address by the chairperson of Autism Seychelles, Stephanie Desnousse. She welcomed participants and thanked supporters, while noting that more work remains to raise awareness of the condition in Seychelles.
“Your support is well appreciated. Sometimes we feel discouraged, but as an association, we are working hard behind the scenes to bring forward projects and initiatives for the benefit of our children,” said Mrs Desnousse.
She also acknowledged sponsors of the event, including Creole Travel Services, Sodepack and Pro Wash.
A warm-up session led by fitness professional Stevens Freminot followed before participants began the run or walk around the trail. Some completed one or more rounds, depending on their ability.
Two wheelchair users also took part. One of them, Jason Parker Winslow, who lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, completed a round of the trail. His participation highlighted accessibility at the venue. “It was possible. I managed,” said Jason after completing his round.
His mother, Christine Winslow, chairperson of the Ramp Up, Rise Up Association, said the accessible infrastructure at the fitness trail made participation possible for wheelchair users.
Parents also took part in support of their children. Francis Victor, attending for the first time, said he joined the event in support of his son.“It was fun,” he said.
Another participant, Linda William Melanie, who has an autistic grandchild, described the activity as a good cause and said she hopes more people will take part in future.
Government officials were also present. Minister for Social Affairs, Family and Equality, Pamela Charlette, completed two rounds of the trail and said more awareness is needed.
“In my line of work, this is a subject that is recurrent. We are always hearing about parents and schools who are not receiving support. I want to reassure people that there are initiatives that my ministry is taking, where we will meet with our partners to make a plan,” said Minister Charlette.
The First Lady, Mrs Veronique Herminie, who is patron of the association, also took part in the activity. She completed two rounds of the trail and said such events help raise awareness and promote acceptance in society.
The chairperson of Autism Seychelles said participation exceeded expectations and described the event as successful.
“I hope that in other activities, we get to see more people participating and offering support towards individuals living with autism,” Mrs Desnousse said.
Her message echoed the spirit of the day, as participants left with a shared commitment to continue supporting awareness and acceptance across Seychelles.