Autism Queensland (AQ) announced the winners of the 2019 Creative Futures Recognition Awards at Government House, Brisbane that coincided with International Day for People with Disability.
The awards are an annual, state-wide event that recognised the individual contributions of people living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as well as the parents, carers, schools and employers who support them. Nominations are received from the community. The awards highlight the services and supports that are essential to addressing the complex problems associated with autism.
Queensland Governor and AQ patron, Paul de Jersey, pictured, presented the awards for five categories.
The Individual Achievement Award went to Joshua Bogaart, pictured. Joshua, who has autism and an intellectual disability, was nominated by one of his teachers in recognition of his many achievements that included a TED Talk he wrote for an English assessment. The Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women turned his talk into a professional animation that provides invaluable insights and his first-hand perspective of living in foster care.
The Parent/Carer Award went to Freya Pinney, who is autistic and home schools her son, Dominic, as well as supporting teachers and families living with autism from Dominic’s former school.
Artist Martin Edge, pictured, was recognised for his support of AQ since his time as a student at the not-for-profit Brighton school. He was presented with the Patronage Award which acknowledges outstanding patronage and/or philanthropic support by an individual or business.
The Professional Achievement Award went to autism advocate and Autism Matters owner, Joanne O’Brien, who has autism and supports her child with autism.
Taking out the School Community Award were FuturePros Tennis Academy owners Kiel Linder and A’lysse Lindner-Thompson, pictured, who have an autistic child and were recognised for developing inclusive programs for children with autism.
For further information about the awards visit Autism Queensland.
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