Because Saad Inspired Us — We Are Building a More Inclusive World for Children with Autism.
From One Child’s
Journey
to a Movement of Hope
We advocate for autism awareness, support families, and work toward inclusive,
sustainable interventions rooted in the African context and aligned with global standards
About Us
Building Understanding. Creating Access. Changing Lives.
Saad Bilal Autism Foundation was founded from a deeply personal journey, one that reflects the reality faced by thousands of families across Kenya and Africa. We work to raise autism awareness, promote early identification, support families—especially single and marginalized mothers—and establish sustainable, inclusive education solutions. Our flagship goal is the creation of a specialized autism learning centre that responds to local realities while meeting international standards.
Together, we can transform awareness into action and hope into lasting impact.
FOUNDER’S MESSAGE
From My Heart to Yours
My journey into autism advocacy did not begin with policy, research, or funding. It began with my son, Saad Bilal. Saad was born prematurely, and from the very beginning, life asked more of him, and of us, than we were prepared for. As the months passed, questions grew louder than answers. The diagnosis brought clarity, but it also introduced fear, isolation and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty. Like many parents, I quickly learned that access is everything. Access to information. Access to early intervention. Access to quality care. In our case, it meant fundraising, difficult decisions, and travelling far from home in search of treatment that simply was not available locally at the time..............
Guided by purpose, driven by inclusion, and committed to meaningful impact in autism support
Our Vision & Mission
Vision
Because Saad inspired us, we are building a world where autism is understood, inclusion is the norm and every child shines.
Mission
To advocate for awareness, support affected families and establish inclusive, sustainable interventions rooted in the African context and aligned with global standards.
Who We Are
The Saad Bilal Autism Foundation is a non-profit organization registered in Kenya, serving communities locally while engaging partners regionally and internationally. We exist to strengthen autism awareness, improve access to early intervention and build long-term, inclusive solutions for children on the autism spectrum.
Our Core Values
- Compassion: We lead with empathy and lived understanding.
- Dignity & Inclusion: Every child and caregiver matters.
- Accountability: We steward resources transparently and responsibly.
- Advocacy: We challenge stigma and influence systems.
- Collaboration: Sustainable impact requires partnerships.
WHAT WE DO
Our Programs and Initiatives Supporting Individuals With Autism and Their Families
Autism Awareness
& Advocacy
We raise autism awareness through culturally relevant campaigns that reduce stigma and promote early identification nationwide.
Family Support & Caregiver Empowerment
We support families with psychosocial guidance, referrals, and empowerment, prioritizing vulnerable caregivers and single mothers.
Early Intervention & Therapy Access
We promote early intervention by expanding partnerships that increase access to affordable, evidence-based autism therapies regionally.
Specialized Autism
School
We are establishing a specialized autism school delivering individualized education, therapy, life skills, and caregiver training.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
We collaborate with communities, professionals, and institutions to strengthen inclusive autism support systems nationwide across Kenya.
Our Team
Meet Our Board
Shamsa Abdalla
Founder & CEO
Makbul Saad Abdulkarim
Chairman
Majid Mohamed Abdalla
Treasurer
Bernice Ruah
Secretary
Clara Nandunda Kakai
Board Member
Emmanuel Paul Onyango Akoth
Board Member
Clear answers to common questions about autism and our work
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SAAD BILAL AUTISM FOUNDATION?
The SAAD BILAL AUTISM FOUNDATION is a non-profit organization dedicated to autism awareness, advocacy, and support for autistic children and their families.
Why was the Foundation established?
The Foundation was created to address gaps in autism awareness, early intervention, and inclusive support services, particularly within African contexts.
Who does the Foundation serve?
We support autistic children, families, caregivers, educators, and underserved communities.
What are your core focus areas?
Our focus areas include autism awareness, caregiver education, early intervention support, inclusive education, and community capacity building.
Do you provide medical treatment or therapy?
No. We focus on awareness, education, referrals, advocacy, and psychosocial support.
Where does the Foundation operate?
The Foundation is based in Kenya, with a vision to collaborate regionally and globally.
How can I support the Foundation?
You can support us through donations, partnerships, volunteering, and advocacy.
How are donations used?
Donations support programs, awareness campaigns, training, and essential operational costs.
Do you accept volunteers?
Yes. Volunteer opportunities vary depending on program needs.
Is autism a disease?
No. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, not a disease.
How can parents or caregivers reach out for support?
Parents and caregivers can contact us through our official communication channels for guidance and resources.
Latest news, research, and perspectives on autism from Kenya and around the world
Insights & Updates
SaadbilalHow Digital Tools and AI Are Shaping Autism Care in 2026
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Read MoreWorld Autism Awareness Month 2026: A Message from Our CEO
An Open Letter to Kenya on Autism and Inclusion World Autism
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Early Detection Breakthroughs: How AI Is Improving Autism Screening
Why earlier, data-driven screening could transform autism outcomes worldwide Early Detection
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Innovation in Autism Therapy: 2025-26 Trends to Watch
From teletherapy to AI-driven tools, how modern approaches are expanding autism
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