On the occasion of April 2 – World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Awareness Month, SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC, in cooperation with the Together and Healthy Public Union, is organizing a series of events.
The first event within this initiative took place at Kashalata Café, an inclusive hospitality venue in our country.
The event brought together representatives and partners of SOCAR, and featured speeches by Aytan Eynalova, Founder and Director of the Together and Healthy Public Union; Polad Rustamov, Executive Director of SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC; Milana Hasanova, Coordinator of the Union’s Development Department; Narmin Rahimli, Director of the Education Programs Department and psychologist; and Elnara Ansari, Director of the DOST Center for Inclusive Development and Creativity. The speakers emphasized the importance of continuous, accurate, and scientifically grounded awareness about autism and the significance of inclusive approaches in this field.
Speakers shared information on ongoing state initiatives that promote the full integration of individuals with autism into society, expand inclusive education, and improve their quality of life. They emphasized the care and attention that the First Vice President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva, and the Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mrs. Leyla Aliyeva, consistently show to children with disabilities, including those with autism. The speakers also highlighted the projects the Foundation has implemented in this field and expressed gratitude for their support.
Parents of individuals with autism spectrum disorder who spoke at the event emphasized the crucial role that public awareness plays in the successful integration of children with autism.
The event included a presentation about the idea behind the creation of Kashalata Café and its day-to-day operations. Representatives of the public union discussed the employment model they developed, explained how it functions, and outlined its social impact.
Young pianist Alisahib Bayramov and the inclusive music group “Blue Hearts” gave a live musical performance.
The event concluded with a commemorative photo.