Delectable Nollywood actress Monalisa Chinda and prominent producer Emem Isong have both been distinguished and specially honoured for their “outstanding contribution to raising awareness, understanding and hope to those affected by autism spectrum disorder and advocating for them.”
The two major Nollywood players, who recently took part in the production of the first film on autism ever produced in Nigeria, were awarded by WOW Divas, an international network of professional women, at their second Autism Awareness Conference held on Friday, June 22, 2012 at Four Point by Sheraton in Lekki Lagos.
Speaking on the award, Monalisa Chinda and Emem Isong said: “It feels great to be honoured and encouraged to do more. Though we deal in different fields, we have something in common, and that is helping people to improve themselves and live a meaningful life.”
Speakers and special guests at the event included Dr. Abiodun Aluko, Dr. Bosede Askhia, Dr. Yinka Akindayomi, Adeola Holloway Oduyemi, Dotun Akande, Mrs. Udo Maryanne Okonjo and Honourable Jerry Alagbaosa, member of the Imo State House of Rep amongst others. Parents and caregivers, who filled the hall to the brim, were eager to receive more information on Autism which is affecting more and more families in Nigeria.
The conference which also saw the launch of The Nigerian Autism Directory emphasized key messages, one of which includes,“Autism is not a death sentence! With early diagnosis, intervention and therapy, the child can recover without a trace.”
Emem Isong, Dotun Akande, and Monalisa Chinda
Udo Maryanne Okonjo (Founder, Wow Divas) and Monalisa Chinda
Monalisa Chinda
PhotoCredit: Mediawise Network
Ladies,congratulations and well done. This is remarkable especially in a continent of stigma and where the condition is less understood.Keep up the great work.
I never knew or heard abt autism until dey premierd d movie..These people rily deserve evry honour given 2 dem dey ar nt jst entertainin bt educating and informin us…