Rotary International has long been at the forefront of humanitarian service, working across borders to foster inclusion, health, and education. In August 2025, sister Rotary Clubs from Australia, Sri Lanka, and India will unite for a special global initiative — Supporting Adolescents with Autism — bringing together service-minded individuals, experts, and volunteers at the Chennai Trade Centre.
This effort reflects Rotary’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive world for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By combining global collaboration, professional expertise, and grassroots volunteerism, the initiative aims to build awareness, provide resources, and engage communities in meaningful action.
Event Details
- Event: Rotary for Autism – Supporting Adolescents with Autism
- Booth: #92
- Occasion: LEADS 25 (Rotary Zones 4, 5, 6, & 7)
- Dates: 23rd to 24th August 2025
- Venue: Chennai Trade Centre, India
The booth will serve as a hub for information, volunteer recruitment, and global networking among Rotary members and visitors. With a call to “Join, Share, and Volunteer”, the initiative encourages everyone to become a part of this inclusive mission.
https://indiaautismcenter.org/about-india-autism-center/
The Mission: Rotary for Autism
The campaign focuses on raising awareness about autism, especially the challenges faced by adolescents as they transition into adulthood. Across the globe, young people with autism often struggle with education, employment, and social integration. Rotary’s initiative seeks to provide:
- Awareness: Promoting understanding and reducing stigma associated with autism.
- Support: Connecting families with resources and professional expertise.
- Collaboration: Uniting Rotary clubs from different regions for a shared humanitarian goal.
- Volunteerism: Creating opportunities for Rotarians and the public to directly engage.
The colourful puzzle ribbon — a universal symbol for autism awareness — features prominently in all campaign materials, signifying diversity, complexity, and the hope for greater inclusion.
Sister Rotary Clubs Leading the Way
This initiative is a joint effort spearheaded by:
- Rotary Club of Brisbane (District 9620-45A, Australia, Chartered 1923)
- Rotary Club of Colombo Reconnections (District 3220, Sri Lanka, Chartered 2004, 100% Paul Harris Club)
- Rotary Club of Madras Creets (District 3232, India, Chartered 1929)
Together, these clubs are showcasing Rotary’s global reach and spirit of partnership, extending service across continents to support a vital cause.
The Team Behind the Initiative
A distinguished team of professionals, Rotarians, and philanthropists is guiding this campaign:
- PP. PHF. Harold B. Sandrasagra
Chair of the Global Autism Initiative (Rotary Club of Colombo Reconnections). Consultant in Archival Science, with experience across South East Asia and Europe. - Dr. Prasanna Subbakar
Developmental Pediatrician and Applied Behavior Analyst. Founder Director of Smilestones Child Development Foundation and Chairman of Polio Plus, Rotary Club Chennai Medical Fraternity. - PP. PHF. Ashad Wehab
Principal of Destination Serendib and member of the Rotary Club of Colombo Reconnections. - PP. PHF. Rakitha Jyayathunge
Attorney-at-law, Rotary Club of Colombo Reconnections. - Tom Gump (Attorney)
Rotary Club of Edina Morningside, Major Donor to TRF. - Rtn. N.K. Gopinath
Past President of Rotary Club of Madras (D-3232) and Major Donor to TRF. - Maestro Diego Carneiro
Renowned Brazilian cellist, conductor, humanitarian, and Rotary Peace Fellow. - Dr. Keith Watts
Past President and Chair, Membership Committee, Rotary Club of Brisbane. - PP. Neeraj Bhatnagar
Major Donor to TRF. Mechanical Engineer, consultant, and philanthropist from RC Delhi South East (RID-3011), New Delhi.
These individuals bring together medical expertise, legal insight, artistic advocacy, community leadership, and philanthropic commitment to strengthen the initiative.
Why This Matters
Autism is a lifelong condition, but adolescence is a particularly critical stage where structured support can make a life-changing difference. By addressing developmental, educational, and social challenges, this Rotary initiative is creating pathways for adolescents with autism to thrive with dignity and confidence.
The event at Chennai Trade Centre will not only spotlight autism awareness but also mobilize local and international volunteers to continue the mission beyond the conference.
How to Get Involved
Visitors and Rotary members are encouraged to:
- Visit Booth #92 at LEADS 25 to learn more.
- Volunteer their time and expertise to support ongoing activities.
- Share the message to amplify awareness and advocacy.