OPCD & Image Nation Abu Dhabi present As One: The Autism Project, a documentary about the power of theatre, dance, music and performance and the challenging yet joyful journey of ten children and their families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the United Arab Emirates
The film screening will be followed by a panel discussion between the Hon. Mike Lake, Canadian PC MP, HE Fahad Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to Canada and Sharifa Yateen, Autism Spectrum Behavior Analyst and the film’s director and moderator, Hana Maaki.
Autism refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication and effects an estimated one out of every 100 children in the UAE. Information is available on the UAE’s Ministry of Community Development website to assist parents in spotting the first signs of autism and understanding how to better support children living with the disorder.
Wednesday 18 November, 2020
from 8.00pm UAE (GMT +4), 11am Ottawa (GMT -5)
‘As One’ is an emotional documentary film focusing on the children, parents and teachers involved in ‘The Autism Project ‘— a theatrical and musical programme in the UAE designed specifically for children on the Autism spectrum.
Ten children from diverse backgrounds were selected to take part in this creative project. The children’s workshops, along with interviews from teachers and families provide a unique and insightful look into Autism.
The Autism Project, an initiative started by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aimed to raise awareness of Autism in the United Arab Emirates. Through the power of theatre, dance, music and performance, we provided a safe and positive space for children and families in the UAE from all different cultures and backgrounds.
Watch the trailer here.
Programme
– 8pm UAE (GMT +4) / 11am Ottawa (GMT -5) / 9am Edmonton (GMT -7): Online screening of ‘As One: The Autism Project’
– 9.25pm UAE (GMT +4) / 12.30pm Ottawa (GMT -5) / 10.30am Edmonton (GMT -7): Live discussion with HE Fahad Al Raqbani UAE Ambassador to Canada, the Hon. Member of Parliament Mike Lake from Canada and Sharifa Al Yateen, Behavior Analyst. The discussion will be moderated by Hana Makki, Head of Documentary, Image Nation Abu Dhabi.
