Zemi Yenus

Zemi Yenus was an Ethiopian businesswoman and autism activist. She was the founder of the Nia Foundation and the Joy Center for Autism in Addis Ababa. After her son was diagnosed with autism, she established the Joy Center to provide education and support for children with autism. She also founded the Niana School of Beauty and worked to raise awareness of autism in Ethiopia. Quotes “When my son was diagnosed with autism I didn’t know what to do. That was the darkest part of my life.” The Reporter Ethiopia “And that’s when I realized that advocacy alone was not enough. We needed to take action.” Autism in Ethiopia: Zemi Yenus & The Joy Center “And change has so many faces, you know. You can offer to watch your neighbors’ autistic child when they’re not around; you can fundraise; you can volunteer at organizations like Joy; you can lobby for more inclusive healthcare policies…and with each of these, it is your concern that is bringing tangible change.” Autism in Ethiopia: Zemi Yenus & The Joy Center “The government is not supporting us as much as the sector needs attention.” Addis Fortune About zemi yenus I was privileged to become part of Zemi’s work on behalf of countless families and children, who were exceptionally willing to share their life experiences. Zemi gave a loud, clear voice to other mothers like her and helped parents in Ethiopia feel at ease talking openly about their autistic children. External links Category:1960 births Category:2021 deaths Category:Ethiopian activists Category:Autism activists Category:Women activists