My experience of the Ambitious Youth Network
I first found out about the Ambitious Youth Network in 2020 through a teacher at my school and officially joined in January 2021.
Finding my true self through the Ambitious Youth Network
I was struggling mentally, and my teacher thought I could benefit from meeting other autistic people in a safe space, and she couldn’t have been more right. At the time, there were two weekly online peer support sessions where we did activities like bingo, listening to music or sharing our special interests. Being able to spend time with other autistic people, be my true self without worrying about masking, and have fun really shifted my mindset about being autistic and hugely improved my mental health.
There were also opportunities to give ‘autism explained’ talks to organisations, which really started my autism advocacy work. Being able to use my lived experiences to help improve the lives of other autistic people is so meaningful and has given me purpose in life.
Accessing paid opportunities
There are so many opportunities on the Ambitious Youth Network for everyone, and I have got involved in many. Some are volunteer roles and others are paid, which is a great way to earn some extra money and be financially rewarded for the work and effort you put in.
Every opportunity, event and meeting I attend with Ambitious about Autism has always been positive and I’ve been so well supported. They send agendas and information in advance, there is no pressure to turn on your camera or microphone, you can communicate in whatever way works best for you, whether that be through speaking, typing in the chat or using AhaSlides to gather everyone’s thoughts together.
The staff are so friendly and helpful, and no question is too small, too specific or too detail oriented.
Becoming an advocate for myself and other autistic people
Ambitious about Autism has helped me so much. It's helped me be more ok being my true autistic self. It's helped me grow confidence in who I am and what I can do. Before joining the network, I was shy, confused, scared, unsure and wouldn't talk to anyone. Since then, I've become a confident advocate for myself and other autistic and disabled young people and it's all because of the supportive environment that Ambitious about Autism created to allow me to grow.
Being able to make change, share my story and help others is hugely rewarding mentally. Ambitious about Autism means so much to me, it's where I found my first community to allow me to thrive.
I would strongly recommend any autistic young person join the Ambitious Youth Network. There are many different opportunities out there and you can sign up to as many or as little as you want. It is an excellent way to meet other autistic young people in a safe and supported environment.
Sharing your experiences and thoughts is a great way to get started with advocacy work and make change whilst also feeling the positive impact it has on you and other autistic young people.
Join the Ambitious Youth Network
About the author
Rebecca is a member of the Ambitious Youth Network and a Youth Advisor.
